Our interview series continues this week with commercial photographer, Christoph Papsch. Enjoy the Q & A along with a selection of Christoph’s work.
Where are you located?
I’m located in Bonn, Germany, where I live with my family. Within 200 kilometers there are cities like Frankfurt, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Brussels, Luxembourg etc. with more than 15 million people living here.
Tell us a bit about your background as a photographer?
After an apprenticeship as a photographer 20 years ago I started working as a freelance photo designer. My first two or three years in the field consisted of smaller projects as I was still developing client relationships and building trust. Eventually, clients started entrusting me with their large budget productions and giving me an opportunity to take on greater responsibility.
What are you working on right now?
Over the past few months I have been working on various projects for logistics and transport companies. These include global companies such as DHL, Schaeffler, MAN, Georg Fischer and different container shipping companies based in Germany. Currently, I’m working on a project for a company in the field of beverage logistics.
What work do you most enjoying doing?
In recent years I have specialized as a photographer in the fields of industry and logistics. I love the smell of metal cutting, heavy oil and kerosene, the hiss of hydraulics, the rattling of equipment and the rumble of machinery and engines. I am fascinated by large and noisy industrial halls, technical equipment, huge machines and the finest industrial manufacturing – but above all, I truly enjoy the interaction of people and technology.
What do you believe is a key element in creating a good composition?
My most basic understanding of composition is that I can only take photographs of processes, things or people that I know and understand. Before I take pictures I like to learn about why something was made, how it works and how it is being used.
How has the internet influenced the way you market yourself?
Previously, I had to make appointments and move from client to client to showcase my printed portfolio. That was exhausting and took a lot of time. Now, I hardly do that anymore. A good presentation of my work on my website is much more important and efficient. I can add new work at any time and draw a client’s attention through newsletters or mailings. But most importantly – my online portfolio is available at any time, worldwide.
How did you decide how to price your work/services?
The more you specialize in a photographic field the more qualified you are for specific jobs and clients, which makes it possible to charge a good fee for your work. I can understand that not every potential client can or wants to pay such a fee, so I consider myself fortunate to have had clients who value my work and are willing to pay for my services. Being valued and sought after in the marketplace has always incentivized me to continue improving and developing throughout the course of my professional career.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve been given?
Respect the people you photograph.
To see more of Christoph’s work or follow his latest, visit his website or connect on social media:
