Issue 106 - May 2024

Photographer Manfred Baumann (Austria & L.A.)
Can you tell us a little about you? I was born in Vienna,
Austria. When I was 10 years old, my grandfather gifted me
my first camera, igniting my passion for photography. Since
then, I've been capturing moments through my lens.
Currently, I split my time between Los Angeles and Austria.
My works have been showcased in galleries and museums
worldwide.
How and when did you get into photography? My grandfather
“Franz Malecz”used to take me to the mountains of
Austria where we would photograph together. When I was
10 years old, he gifted me my first camera, a Praktica 1000n.
What does photography mean to you? Photography is the
most beautiful hobby in the world, and few are privileged
enough to call it their profession. I relive my life multiple
times through my photographs, constantly moved by the
moments captured from earlier times. In my books and
exhibitions, I give my moments infinite duration.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our
readers. Most of my work is in black and white because I
love to tell stories without revealing everything at once. In
black and white photography, much remains untold - the
color of hair, eyes, clothing, surroundings - thus requiring
the viewer to exert more effort in deciphering the stories
behind my images and allowing their own imagination to
play a part.
Where do you get inspiration from? From Life.
Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
I love the variety in photography; some things are planned,
while others are not.
Studio, on location or both? I prefer focusing more
on locatio.n
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid
professional? Professional since more than 30 years.
Nikon or Canon? Lens? I´m an Leica Ambassador .
What has been your most memorable session? In recent
years, I've had the privilege of working with nume-rous
stars, including Angelina Jolie, Olivia Newton-John, John
Malkovich, Jason Momoa, and many others. I've also had
the opportunity to photograph for prestigious events like
the Golden Globe Awards and for platforms like Netflix.
After shooting more than 200 celebrities, I no longer get
nervous in their presence. However, my first encounter with
an international star was truly special and unforgettable. It
was when the legendary Sir Roger Moore, the iconic James
Bond actor whom I admire greatly, came to me for a photoshoot.
- 42 -
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer
a new photographer? Photograph only what you
truly love. And discover the extraordinary in the
ordinary! And why not join my workshops?"
What do you think of our new magazine? "I love it
too and look forward to many exciting articles and
great photos!"
https://www.instagram.com/manfredbaumann
http://www.manfredbaumann.com