Behind the Lens With 24 Best Travel Photographer Finn Beales

Finn Beales, one of Fathom's 24 Best Travel Photographers of 2016, finds organization in the chaos of gaping landscapes and far-off horizons with his stunning nature photography. We're excited to showcase his fresh style — grand outdoor scenes and a sprinkle of street photography — and interview him on his process.

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I live in the book town of Hay-on-Wye. It's a massively creative place nestled in the Black Mountains on the border of England and Wales, recently described by the Guardian as an "anti-establishment breeding ground for independents." I have a background in graphic and web design and marketing, and have been taking pictures for roughly twelve years to complement my work. I switched to full-time professional three years ago. I just returned from a road trip through California for the state tourist board.

2. How would you describe your photography style?

I’m well known for my landscape work, but increasingly I am being commissioned to shoot commercial campaigns for clients like Apple, Google, Private White VC, Mazda, and Audi with a brief to incorporate product or fashion into the landscape. Not so much a focus on the products or people, more the lifestyle that could be associated with the product. I’d say I’m more of a travel/lifestyle/ad photographer these days and the commercial recognition for my work feels good!

3. What do you love most about photographing on the road?

I love the traveling aspect. I've never been one for package holidays in familiar hotels. You know, reading novels by the pool. For me, the journey is as much a part of the experience as is the destination.