SHOOTER: GUILLAUME PAYEN
Name: Guillaume Payen
Age: 27
Location: Stockholm, Sweden
How long have you been shooting?
I really got into BMX photography since June 2009 but I have been taking tourist pictures for 2 years now.
Film or digital?
I am into digital for the simplicity but I’d like to shoot medium format one day.
What kind of cameras, lenses, flashes, and other bits and pieces do you use?
My dear Nikon D300 follows me everywhere. I have a 18-200mm Vr, a 10-24mm and a 50mm for portrait. I have 2 SB900’s as well and a reflector if needed.
Do you have a dream camera that you would like to shoot with?
My dream camera is right now the Nikon D3s. ISO 12800. WTF!
How do you go about setting up a shot?
First composition. I fight with the environment to find a good angle and to set my flashes. I often have a headache at that moment. The rider is always welcome to give his point of view. Then action!
Best thing you’ve ever shot?
I would say 6 months ago when I took my first BMX picture with a real light set. Some stuff happened there. Like the wall/puzzle to 180 from Jocke. It was the first real BMX picture that I ever took and I am still proud of it.
Who is your favorite rider to shoot with?
Definitly my friend Jesper Stern. I start to guess how he will pull a trick. He is the best model that a photographer could dream of and he is a good rider too. He had some pretty bad falls after asking him, “Can you do that again?”. Thanks Jesper.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Mostly Dig magazine, Ride Uk, National Geographic and photo exhibitions.
Who is one dream rider you want to shoot with?
Pamela Anderson doing a bunny hop over Tommy Lee disguised in a giant hot dog is something that I still dream about. After this fantasy happens, any rider that is motivated and has patience for a shoot.
What do you tell security when they try to throw you out of spots for taking photos?
Not experienced that yet. Stockholm is pretty calm.
Who is your favorite BMX photographer?
Walter Pieringer.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Somebody gentle and open minded if I have to grow up even more.
What else do you like to shoot?
Photojournalism and portraits.
Where can we see more of your work?
I’ll have a website soon but for now my Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/29176231@N04