Have camera, will travel
Chris McLennan has been involved with Adventure magazine for a long time. If we need a stunning image, an image that really stands out, Chris McLennan is our first call. Chris has the ability to capture that image that simply stop you turning a page and it is that skill that has made him one of New Zealand’s top location, adventure and wildlife photographers. Fortunately we caught up with Chris while he was briefly back in New Zealand so that we could ask him a few questions.
How would someone who knew you really well describe you? Dedicated to the photography process - if not almost obsessed with capturing the real world and sharing my stories and interpretations of our amazing planet. Workaholic.
How would someone who first met you describe you? They probably wouldn't remember me... Somewhat quiet and shy unless of course I am hosting one of my Photography Expeditions. What’s been the biggest challenge as a photographer? Keeping up with technology and the end usage of imagery is constantly changing also. What’s been the biggest negative? Too much time away from home and family. I am away travelling in excess of 250 days a year. What’s been the most positive thing about your career? Travelling 250 days a year ;-) Getting to see and work in many of the wonderful locations on this amazing planet. What do you think sets your work apart from other peoples? I am self taught and have always done my own thing without paying too much attention to the work of others... What’s more important - being a good businessman or being a good photographer? Both are very important, even a great photographer won’t last if they can't run a business! As glamorous as everyone thinks it is, photography is a very difficult way to make a living. Most dangerous experience? Travelling by car in remote parts of Rajastan - dodging elephants, trucks and camels on the wrong side of the road...
Biggest failure and what did it teach you? I don't recall any major failures but on the smaller end of the scale you can learn from almost every photo you take even if the result is not as planned. You never stop learning.
When you are working what dictates your day? The subject matter dictates much of this if you are shooting wildlife - and location of course - but most of all the light - its all about the light! Best thing you have ever bought under $100? Gaffa tape