Interview: Less is More in the Mind of Fin Matson
This week I was fortunate enough to chat with travel photographer Fin Matson, who has made a name for himself through his otherworldly images.
Can you tell me a little bit about you, such as where you grew up, school or background etc. and how you got into photography?
My name is Fabian (Fin is my nickname) and I’m a 26 year old outdoor and travel photographer from Germany. I grew up in a small town south of Germany. After I finished school I started working in a skate and snowboard shop. I wasn’t really happy with my job and I always wanted to do something more creative, so I decided to leave Germany and go traveling to southeast Asia and New Zealand. I really enjoyed the life in New Zealand and its beautiful landscapes made me pick up a camera. That’s where everything started…
How did you develop this minimalist style where there is often an isolated subject?
I think traveling and life on the road has influenced my style a lot. I’ve spent a lot of time living in cars/vans, where there is only space for necessary items, so over time I got rid of most of my belongings. Today I only own camera equipment and a skateboard, and that’s all I need to live. I think this lifestyle changed the way I shoot and how I see the world a lot, and I try to show that in my photographs. An image with only one subject and a lot of negative space gives me such a calm feeling, and I really love that. Less is more in my mind.
What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to so far? Any amazing memories?
Definitely New Zealand! I spent over a year and a half there, so there are a lot of amazing memories, but I vividly remember the nights when the sky was totally clear on the South Island. Those moments will stay with me forever.
Currently, who are your biggest inspirations?
Karl Shakur is definitely killing it! Alex Strohl, not just for his stunning work, but also for the person he is, and Giulia Woergartner is very inspiring as well!
Has your Instagram or any other social media led to unique opportunities for you?
Most of my clients have discovered me through Instagram but most of my jobs have nothing to do with it. Instagram has definitely helped me connect with other likeminded creatives, which has led to other great opportunities.
How was the transition from shooting for fun to working for brands?
Very exciting and still is. I’ve been freelancing for less than a year, so I’m still figuring everything out, but I love it. It’s such a great feeling to make a living out of something you really enjoy.
What tips can you give to young photographers that are just starting out?
Shoot as much as you can and ask a lot of questions from those that inspire you!
I noticed you created a New Zealand travel film last month. Is video something you are getting more involved in?
Yes definitely! That film was my first project I completely shot and edited myself and I really enjoyed it! It’s so much different than shooting photos, and so much more work. But I’m planning more projects in the future and can’t wait to get more experience.
Can you tell us a little bit about your gear. What is your main camera and drone setup?
This is my current setup:
What is the most memorable photo you’ve taken?
Probably a shot I captured of the moon last year in Sydney. I wasn’t planning much for the moonrise and I was just sitting by the ocean with my sister waiting, and then just after the rise this sail boat passed by and it was just the perfect composition. That shot inspired me to capture more images of the moon and it always calms me down when I look at it.
Stay up to date with Fin through his website, Instagram and Facebook page. Big thank you to Fin for sharing all of the insight and we look forward to all of your future endeavors!