Local artist profile: Joel Bramley

THIS week we chat with photographer Joel Bramley, who said many of his images involve reacting to the environment or weather conditions around him.

What initially motivated you to become a photographer?

Capturing the environment around me has been an interest for decades but it wasn’t until 2012 that I was confident enough to start sharing my images. This is when I created a Facebook page and posted my first.

Initially I was posting images of all subjects but I quickly moved to a more dedicated landscape subject matter. I love to explore, capture what I find in unique ways and share my version of what I see in my head with my followers.

How would you describe your style and how did you develop it?

I don’t really see myself as having a style as such. I’m looking for interesting images with great composition in the landscape genre. Images can be HDR (high dynamic range), panoramic (vertical or horizontal), aerial (drone), black and white, colour splash… the list goes on.

The closest to a style for me would probably be with reflections. I often capture and share reflection photos in and around the Bendigo CBD. You can find me at times squatting at puddles or at reflective services during or after rain with a camera in hand exploring the city trying to get interesting reflection photos of buildings and other objects.

Which other photographers inspire you and why?

Thomas Heaton – UK landscape photographer. This is the photographer I follow the most and I try to watch a lot of his YouTube videos. Being able to travel and explore around Australia and capture images is the dream. There’s a great bunch of local photographers around too that I enjoy seeing images from and on occasion a little envious of their work.

What are some highlights you have from your career so far?

As a part time landscape photographer anytime someone decides to purchase a print is a highlight. The idea that someone has my work on a wall in their home is the ultimate highlight.

After a visit to Lake Tyrrell in Victoria I was contacted by the owner of the Sky Mirror gallery about some photos I captured at the time. I have some images in the gallery and some available online via skymirror.com.au/joel-bramley.

Another highlight is whenever I get to teach someone photography though my workshops. After years of running them I still get a kick out of people wanting to learn.

How can people check out your work online?

Images can be found on my website at joelbramley.com or find me on Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Threads.

Is there anything in particular you’re working on now?

I am always on the lookout for the next Aurora display or heading out to chase a storm and trying to photograph some lightning. Most of my images are reacting to the environment or weather conditions around me or taking photos whilst travelling or on holidays. Therefore I’m never really sure what I’ll be doing at any given time.

What would you say to young regional aspiring photographers who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

There’s immense satisfaction in creating images that resonate with others. Inspiring someone to pick up a camera is an incredible bonus. Being a creative can be very rewarding at times and there is a great photography community in the area.