Brent Stirton

How do you feel about participating in Xposure 2021?

I’m grateful to be asked. It’s a good festival and an opportunity to see people I haven’t seen for a while.

We are very well treated there and that’s always very nice. Anytime a credible festival wants to show my work, I’m grateful.

How would you categorise your work?

I spend most of my time focused on the intersection between man and the environment.

How did you get into photography?

I was a journalist and I needed to illustrate my work. I couldn’t find a photographer to work with so I bought a used camera and taught myself.

What are you driven by?

I’m driven by the need to support the good work being done by so many of the people I meet. Most of them are fighting huge odds and I have found I can make a difference in that fight if I commit to good photography on that theme.

What has been the proudest moment in your career?

Being voted National Geographic Magazine’s Photographer’s Photographer in 2015.

What kind of photography do you get the most pleasure from?

If I am able to make images that move people, that create an emotional response, that is always the best for me.

What’s the most inspiring photograph you’ve seen?

James Nachtwey’s image from the Rwandan genocide of the Tutsi victim in profile with scars on his face is right up there for me.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?

Hard work and discipline will take you further than just talent alone.