Wolfgang Mothes is a self-taught photographer living in Frankfurt/Germany. Architecture photography has always been his favorite subject, but he is much interested in other genres of photography as well, especially panorama, technology and infrared.
Wolfgang Mothes work has been exhibited in Germany, GB, Netherlands, Switzerland, Hungary and Russia. He works for magazines, published three books and many calendars.
He still applies analog photography too, always using the zone system and meticulously works out his images in the darkroom. His favorite analog tool is the Linhof Technorama 617 panoramic camera. With his photographs Wolfgang Mothes aims to reach the emotional level of the viewer and create images that linger in the memory.
© Wolfgang Mothes
How and when did you become interested in photography?
Even as a small boy, I was interested in photography. This was mainly, because my father had bought a Leica. Under his strict supervision, I was allowed to use the Leica from time to time.
Is there any artist/photographer who inspired your art?
When I started photography 35 years ago, there were many photographers that I admired. By the time, I became more confident with my own ideas, so I no longer have a model today. I know a large number of very good photographers with their outstanding work, but I try to make my own ideas.
What has been your favourite photo location?
My home city of Frankfurt with its magnificent architecture.
Why do you work in black and white rather than colour?
Because 35 years ago, it was not technically possible, to draw color photographs the way I wanted to. Only Black and White offered me the chance to design pictures. And from the beginning I wanted to prepare images and not to document photographically.
How much preparation do you put into taking a photograph/series of photographs?
I prepare my shots still very conscientious. Mostly I’ve already scouted the location before. Therefore, I know the best shooting place and also with what lens I want to photograph. I often wait even until the weather is right. Inclement weather is the best shooting weather to photograph dramatic images. It is very important that you previously already think about how the image will look. If I shoot digital, I always use the RAW-Mode, so that all possibilities of image processing are open to me later. I use DxO as my RAW-Converter. The additional performance demands is then in Photoshop and with Silver Efex Pro. I work my pictures very thoroughly. Often it really takes many hours until I am completely satisfied. My preferred digital camera is the Nikon D 800E with the ZEISS-lenses Distagon 15mm and 21mm. I always use a tripod.
Website: www.wolfgangmothes.de
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
© Wolfgang Mothes
