Brian O’Donnell - I Started To Force Myself To Think Outside The Box And Be Original (Photographer)

Just go out and shoot. Until you’ve photographed loads of different things (portrait, landscape, street, creative etc.), you won’t know what sparks your drive. 

1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I started out when I was about 15 just playing around with a GoPro and making short travel or fun vlog styled videos. I got my first proper camera when I was 18 and from there I proceeded to set up my own photography Instagram page to share my work with others and possibly get potential clients. 

It was very casual up until about December 2019/January 2020, when I really started to fall in love with it and would spend hours upon hours teaching myself all the skills needed through YouTube. 

During quarantine, I posted almost every day with a behind the scenes video, and this gained a lot of attention as most photographers weren’t working during the lockdown. From there, I’ve kept the grind up until where I am today. Nowadays I’m improving all video tricks and skills that will be shown on my youtube channel.

2. How and when did you realize your passion for photography?

I’ve always had a passion for it but I only started to flourish (I suppose) once I started getting creative with the photos. Once I started to force myself to think outside the box and be original, that’s when I really started to love what I do.


3. What are some tips you would like to share with amateur photographers?

I have a lot of helpful tips on my YouTube channel. I’d say the best tip is to just go out and shoot. Until you’ve photographed loads of different things (portrait, landscape, street, creative etc.), you won’t know what sparks your drive. Secondly, if you have any questions, youtube is a great way to learn.


4. What are the important skills one should have to be a successful photographer?

You have to be able to have a vision. Know what photograph you are going to take before you take it. If you’re just taking random photos and hoping for the best, it will be extremely difficult to get a good shot. 

Put in the extra work and really try to think hard about what will make this picture unique, and what could I add to make it that little bit better.


5. What are various opportunities available for aspiring photographers?

There are loads of opportunities. Businesses are never going to stop needed photography and videography for their brand. If you are wondering how to get business and be discovered, set up an Instagram account and post only your best work. 

The most fun opportunities I’ve had is my collaborations with other brands. I find this a really fun way to get creative and help someone else at the same time.


6. Which is your favourite book and why?

My favourite book is this little book I have in my kitchen that is full of all types of inspirational and motivating quotes. Always good to have motivation around you to keep you going.

- Brian O’Donnell (Photographer)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore_create_capture/


Interviewed By Khushi Garg