2 April 2020

© Matt Davis

We catch up with Matt Davis to find out more about his style, inspiration, favourite lighting set up and how he plans to spend his time during the lockdown besides perfecting the art of handstands!

© Matt Davis

Was there a turning point when you realised that photography was the career path you wanted to pursue?

I was working in banking. I had to get out. I ditched the spreadsheets for a camera and never looked back.

© Matt Davis

Can you talk about your photographic style, how it has developed and your inspirations?

I specialise in portraits full of character and energy. I went through a moody, sporty phase a few years back, then I started brightening up my work. Now I shoot a mixture of both, depending on the subject. Light or dark, my images are always technical and always tell a story. And they have to reveal something about the subject. Joy, vulnerability, the unseen softer side of a celebrity… 

© Matt Davis

What is your favourite lighting set up?

Rembrandt. For portraits there’s no better way of shooting. It’s one of the constants in my work. I usually start with a Rembrandt light then gradually introduce additional lights, carefully sculpting the level of fill. I steer clear of heavy post production these days and often I’ll have 10+ lights on a set. I take pride in capturing most things in camera. It helps my work stand out. More recently I’ve been creating a more natural look, but 99% of it is still artificial light.

© Matt Davis

With the current COVID-19 pandemic which elements of your business are you planning to focus on, have you set yourself any goals?

I know this will sound hopelessly optimistic… but I honestly think the next 2-3 months represent a huge opportunity. I haven’t been able to focus on my work without interruption like this for years. I’m currently catching up and improving on all the admin and back office work. Then I have a specific list I’m working on:

- Finally learn Quickbooks accounting software

- Finish the Adobe Premiere course I’ve been threatening to do for two years

- Research new sectors and clients to pursue. If this crisis has taught us one thing, it’s that some sectors are far more robust in economic downturns

- Plan my next wave of personal and editorial work. I’m starting work on a project with Durham University involving crowds which I’m extremely excited about. And, like most of us, I’m itching to document social distancing and the general societal changes at the moment. Safe to say I won’t be starting either until the current restrictions are lifted

- Spend the time with my family I always long for when I’m stuck on the motorway

- Learn how to do a handstand. I’m serious. I’ll post a pic of it when I get there. I’m pretty close!

© Matt Davis

What does the AOP do for you?

Initially I became a member to get work as an assistant. Then I became a photographer member to enter the awards. But now a

big part of my membership is the legal and business support. I’ve received superb legal advice which has dwarfed my membership fees over the years. More recently

© Matt Davis

Experience more of Matt's stunning images here