Leo Thomas, 25, student from Trier
Hi Leo,
You often travel, have a passion for photography and like to share your images on social media. Your distinct, dreamy landscapes on Instagram have made you a sought-after photographer with over 130,000 followers.
Tell us where did it all start - how did you get into photography?
I always wished to do something creative. Once, on a road trip from California to the Pacific North West I met Lennart Pagel. He was an established photographer at the time. After meeting him I was impressed by what he was doing and with the North West’s landscapes. So I stuck around and started to get enthusiastic about outdoor and adventure photography. I started my photography right then and there just using my iPhone 5. I learnt so much about image composition during this time, and how to create the perfect set up. When I was back in Germany it became obvious that I wanted to be a proper photographer, so I bought my first camera, which I am still using today.
When you take a closer look at your images it appears you like to photograph the “bad” weather. What sort of trends do you in the photography scene?
Hard question. I mainly use Instagram and on there you notice a lot of different trends emerging. Recently, photographers tend to create a moody atmosphere with their work using gloomy techniques. That’s also the way I like to take my photos. I’ve never been the type of person that likes clear blue skies. I have noticed though, lots of photographers recently tend to fade their images, this is another common trend nowadays on Instagram.
You’ve already photographed some of the most impressive places in the world. However, every photographer wants to travel somewhere new. If time, money and other factors weren’t preventing you: What would your absolute dream project be?
My biggest dream was to join an expedition as a photographer. Preferably somewhere no one has been before. Somewhere rarely, or not yet, photographed. I can also picture going to places that aren’t so safe for mankind, such as the Antarctic.
That sounds like it would be an incredible experience. Lastly, can you tell our readers about what experiences you have with image theft?
Just by chance, I saw on Facebook today that a London-based skater shop used one of my photos as their cover image, and also used other images on their website. They did not even ask for my permission. They did credit me- but really? I don’t go into their shop to try on a new jacket, leave without paying and then start telling people where I bought the jacket from. As a photographer, I have to watch out for this a lot, especially on Facebook and Instagram.
Not enough from Leo Thomas? Read our interview with street-photographer Tomaso Baldessarini.
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