Darryl Carey

NZ based Triathlon and Ironman photographer Darryl Carey has had a full summer out in the heat covering some of NZ's top sporting events.

Where are you based?


Darryl Carey Photography is based in the heart of Auckland.  The reason why we choose Auckland central is because of its' convenient location.  If anyone gets lost, I would always say 'look for the sky tower and drive…just keep an eye out for the cyclists.

What initially interested you into photography?


What interests me in photography is being able to capture that moment and sharing it with the rest of the world.  
 


Tell us a little about your style of photography.


Like most men, I like the thrill and challenge of being on a motorbike or car and taking awesome sports photography.  I must say I have had some 'near-misses'! 
I believe in making the effort to take a good photograph, instead of taking a photograph and 'Photo-shopping' it to death.

 What gear do you use?


I use a Nikon pro-series D4 and a variety of lenses, 14-24mm, 24-70, 70-200mm, 300mm and 50mm.  There always seems to be a silent battle between Team Nikon or Canon, just like Mac vs PC.  I always believe that everyone needs to choose a brand that works and meets the needs for you individually. There is always going to be two sides of the page so weigh out the advantages and disadvantages and choose wisely.
 

 
If you had to choose only one lens, what would it be and why?


My favourite lens would have to be the Nikon 300mm F2.8, I even named it 'Betty'.  How I named it is another story in itself.
 

What has been your greatest challenge as a photographer?


My greatest challenge as a photographer is the need to be inn-ovative and unique to the market.  It's easy to copy but that doesn't make it 'you' so by being different is what captures the 'WOW' factor.  The other challenge is not having enough time to sleep and living on adrenaline when I'm so focused on a job.

 What do you feel has been your greatest photographic achievement to date?


Having 12 magazine front covers in New Zealand and around the world.  It's great to have people come up to me as they recognize me from previous races or have been following me on social media.  
 

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be?


This is an interesting question.  Maybe I'll be a painter to aid my need for perfection and a professional motorbike racer on the side to satisfy the thrill-seeker inside.


What would be your dream job or assignment to shoot?


My dream job is to shoot Ironman World Champs in Hawaii.
 


What tips or advice do you have for budding photographers?


Do what you are truly passionate about.  If you have found it, chase it down full throttle. 'Copying others will get you nowhere, it's that personal innovative side that will put you one step ahead of others'.  Let your creative side explore and make it yours.

 What are your thoughts towards videography - do you see yourself moving on to shoot more video than stills in your work?


Nowadays, people like to see more than a set of photographs, nobody has time or patience to learn via reading manuals anymore.  Videography has always been popular with television.  However, it's the Internet that has progressed the need for videography to that next level.  I can definitely see how videography is the future, especially with how youtube and Vimeo has just exploded over the past few years.
 

Are you a fan of using flash in your work?


Lighting is an important part of good photography.  There is a rigid technique and art to getting this right.   If you don't have the light right then the picture will not be perfect.  I can see times when a flash is required but always prefer to use natural light.

In your opinion, what makes a good photograph?


We know that 'a picture tells a thousand words' but the skill is to capture this moment filled with shared emotions and pain.  Of course the colour and style is important but if you see a picture and feel the chills down your back with shared emotions is what makes a great image.
 


What do enjoy doing to take a break from photography, what recharges you?


I love photography so much that I think I have blended work and life balance filled with photography.   
 

Who motivates or inspires you to keep doing what you do?


In the photography world, Mr Nikon Australia, Delly Carr is an inspiration and after 20yrs in the sports photography world he is still at the top of his game. Working with new clients and pushing my own boundaries, plus helping new photographers get started in this crazy world of photography.

Visit Darryl's website here