Interview with Olympus Ambassador, Sandro Tasso

Olympus Ambassador and professional wedding photographer and cameraman, Sandro Tasso, has an insatiable passion for street photography and Olympus’ range of mirrorless cameras. He will be leading the Olympus Photowalk Experience scheduled to take place at Cameraland on 31 October 2015, with the aim of giving all those interested the opportunity to try out an Olympus OM-D camera for the morning.

Having just settled in the lush valley of Franschhoek, his photographic style is strongly influenced by his upbringing and life in Italy, home of Lambrusco wine, parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, Ferrari and Pavarotti. Known for his reportage style, his wedding photos capture the emotions on the day and tell the story of the couple in the most authentic sense. This knack for capturing the moment in its beautiful and true form has fired Sandro’s passion for traditional street photography even more.

Visit Sandro's website here.

The Interview

1. How would you classify your photographic style and who inspires you?

My photographic style is very natural I am always trying to catch the moment that tells a story. I am trying to be myself with my style but I like what Robert Capa used to say, “If your photos are not good enough, then you are not close enough”.

2. What is it that draws you to pick up your camera and take a photo?

It is a passion that I have had since I was a kid, wherever I go my camera is with me. When I was a kid I did not have Facebook or WhatsApp, so I use to spend my free time taking pictures.

3. What type of gear do you use and do you have any favourites?

Being an Olympus Ambassador the answer is quite simple: Olympus and their amazing Zuiko lenses! One day I would like to own a Leica. Successful photographs depend on the photographer more than the equipment. Experienced photographers work best with the camera they like and, like I said, I love Olympus.

4. What would be your ultimate shot and how would you shoot it?

Ultimate shot? Every shot for me is an “ultimate shot”. I am a very instinctive photographer most of the time I do not do any planning beforehand- that's me.

5. What is the most challenging part of photographing your preferred subject?

The most challenging part of photography is the “light”. “Photograph” means “drawing with light”. Therefore, it's up to the photographer to use the light in the best possible way to achieve “the ultimate shot”. I like to shoot anything that involves people. In fact, my motto is “I shoot people” and trying to capture their emotions. That's why I love to shoot weddings where emotions and beauty are combined in a reportage style to create a story- a story to revive and excite you every time you browse your photos.

6. What’s next on the horizon that you’re most excited about?

I live the present not the future. I am quite lucky to do what I love, i.e. holding a camera and taking pictures. So, if I have to project myself in the future, I see the same picture, me holding a camera.

7. If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice when you picked up the camera for the first time, what would it be?

My advice will be, “Do not bother to have the latest and best camera that is on the market, just go out and shoot people”.

The Olympus Photowalk Experience with Sandro Tasso

The perfect opportunity for those who have had their curiosity sparked by the magic of mirrorless! Participants who join us for the morning will each get an Olympus OM-D camera all to themselves for a thorough test-run as we are guided through the streets of Cape Town by the passionate Olympus Ambassador, Sandro Tasso.

They’ll enjoy street photography tips and advice from an expert as well as stand a chance to win one of two R2000 Olympus vouchers up for grabs on the day!

DATE: Saturday 31 October

VENUE: Cameraland Cape Town, 68 Long Street

RSVP: events@cameraland.co.za

COST: Free

Basic Overview of Photowalk Experience:

There will be two successive photowalks taking place on the morning of 31 October. By splitting the group in two, more individual attention is made possible and each participant will be able to enjoy a dedicated Olympus OM-D camera for the entire duration of the walk.

Each group will follow the same basic brief for the photowalk:

- Coffee & Registration at Cameraland (Sign in, Indemnity Form, Goodie Bag & Camera Allocation)

- Brief by Cameraland and Sandro

- Route will take us to Company Gardens (approx. 1hr30min)

- Back to Cameraland for camera collection and casual Q&A

Keep an eye on the Facebook event page for updates and competition details!