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UK guest writer James Hartnett interviews IFI’s latest photographer from across the pond, Dan Donovan. Here’s what went down:
When did you first become a fight/MMA photographer?
I shot my first tournament last April, but I have shot a few training sessions beforehand just to get a bit of practice in.
I shot my first tournament last April, but I have shot a few training sessions beforehand just to get a bit of practice in.
Where did your ambition to become one come from?
It wasn’t actually something I originally planned to get into, but I did a job with a PR company who work for UCMMA. I got asked to come down to shoot a fight one month and I’ve been doing it ever since!
What was the first fight you shot?
(Pauses) I think it was Dan Shortman fighting, but I forget his opponent. [Dan] lost via triangle choke in the first round, and lost the same way to the same guy in a rematch a few months later.
What was your best shoot?
I think it has to be between one of my shots of Ben Smith being taken down by Oli Thompson, or Jake Bostwick knocking Earl Brown out with his whole body airborne.
What was your most memorable shoot?
(Pauses) That’s a tricky one. I’ve shot so many fights but I recently did a shoot with Paul Daley for his new clothing range – he’s a really cool guy to work with and I got a free t-shirt!
How did you break through to get to your position today?
Mainly just through meeting contacts at different shows and in the gym I got most of my work. I had to work hard to try and stand out from the rest of the competition and getting my name out there was probably the hardest thing of all.
How long have you had an ambition for photography?
I’ve always loved taking photos ever since I was a boy but I only really took it seriously as a profession when I went to college and purchased my first professional camera. It was only then when I realised it was something I wanted to pursue. I went and invested in some more kit and the passion just keeps growing!
Did you think this was the type of photography you’d do when you were younger?
No – I started out photographing local clubs and gig, and never thought I’d get into fight photography.
Does fighting, or MMA in general, interest you? – Is this one reason you took the route you have?
I train out of Team Titan but before that I trained in East London, so naturally have a love for the sport. I think it’s this passion as well as the constant flow of people wanting photographs done of themselves during training that’s created a spark for me to pursue such photography and I’ve loved it ever since.
You’re a fighter yourself. Does this change the way you stylise your shots?
I think training in the sport or area of what you do helps a lot. I find it easier to relate to my subjects and I feel like I’m almost a step ahead when shooting as I can read what the fighters are doing easier and I’m not just waiting for something to happen.
What would your dream fight be to photograph?
I would love to shoot either Brad Pickett or Jason Young in the UFC as I fight in the same gym as them, but shooting any UFC event would be a dream. That would be insane!
Any advice on those looking to embark on the same path as you?
Just get networking with gyms and fighters to try and get your name out as much as you can. Don’t feel annoyed if you’re turned away from events or have to shed out some money to go to shows – it’s all part of the process. Just keep your head up and push through it.
What’s next for Dan Donovan?
For me it’s my website, which should be out in the next few weeks. I’m also looking into doing a photography exhibition this summertime, so stick around for that too! The address of my website is still being thought up but you’ll be able to find it either here or on my twitter (@dandonovanmma).
Thanks for your time Dan.
Thanks.
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