Who is Thomas Lothard?
If you’re interested in street photography, you’ve probably heard of Thomas. Swiss, working in the IT industry until recently, traveling the world hunter of unusual moments from ordinary street time.
But let’s leave his photos, his words and the things he does to tell us who Thomas is …
If you were invisible what and where would you shoot?
I think, when I act correctly, I can shoot nearly everywhere.
Is the world black and white?
Yes, since I don’t like colour and since the world is too colourful these days. I also think it’s easier to shoot in B/W.
What is hidden in the shadows?
The soul and vision of the photographer.
Did anybody want to ‘punch you in the face’ because of your shooting manner? If yes - tell us the story and show us the picture.
It doesn’t happen often and I was never that close that someone could punch me. And there are no photos of such moments.
You said that street photography is 99% observation and 1% execution. I am interested in the observation process. What do you see, Tomas? What is the world around you?
The observation process is a very personal one. You see what you want to see or what you are interested in. If you don’t have a plan of what you want to shoot, you will not see it. You can see everything you want as long as you concentrate on this one thing.
Do you love human beings?
Not that much anymore. Currently I love aesthetics in compositions that work and flatter my eye.
Why do you shoot? What does photography give you?
Today it’s a way to express my creativity and to show other photographers how they can improve their photography. And since 6 months I have lived from it.
You can have the best camera in the world, but if your eye can’t see, it won’t make a difference.
Imagine that the eye can see and see everything - what should be exposed via photography?
The beauty of the ordinary world people don’t see anymore because they are looking for something more beautiful.
The gear is not important. But what is important for the ‘Wow!’ shot?
In an interesting scene, a perfect composition and your personal touch of creativity. In the end it’s the moment when you realise that it worked out how you expected it.
Who is the photographer you admire most? Why? Which is your favourite picture from his/her portfolio and why?
I don’t admire a lot of photographers. But I like this one: Junichi Hakoyama Because he takes a lot of shots I would also like to shoot. But obviously we don’t have such locations over here or I don’t find them.
This is one of the best:
Who is Tomas without a camera in hands?
A lonely guy who stays on the couch, watches TV, rides a motorbike, walks through the neighbourhood while listening to podcasts and enjoys a self-determined life.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Don’t listen to others… ever.
How long will you keep shooting?
I have no idea, but this day will come probably sooner than later.
