Creative Profile: Shane Rozario.

Introducing Shane Rozario: Our Creative of the Month

In the realm of visual storytelling, Shane Rozario's journey is remarkable. Picture this: a chance meeting with musician Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals while backpacking in the UK in 1998; being invited to tour with them as their photographer; and igniting a photography career. Today, Shane flourishes as a commercial photographer and leads WeAreObservers, an initiative that inspires photographers through events like PhotoTalks, PhotoWorkshops, and PhotoAdventures.

 

What captures attention in this narrative is Shane's choice made in his early thirties, to transition into a career in commercial photography. Shane's story truly challenges the conventional trajectory, demonstrating that embracing change and committing to new pursuits remains relevant at any age. For him, nothing should prevent the pursuit of dreams, taking risks and chasing passions.

Shane, you're our Creative of the Month, and we're thrilled to have you here. Let's begin by diving into your photography journey. Could you share the origins of your passion and what drew you into the world of photography?

Back in 1983, I arrived in Sydney as a new immigrant from Mumbai, India at the age of 12. One Sunday, my family explored Rockdale market, a vibrant flea market that once occupied the space of today's Rockdale Plaza. Among the many stalls, my attention was drawn to a collection of vintage cameras. As I held one, I became entranced by its mechanics, imagining the world through its lens. I pushed buttons and opened latches. I was really drawn to its mechanics and began to role-play being a photographer. I really wanted it but knew we had no money, so I reluctantly put it back and walked away. My uncle Rodney, who was hosting us, saw what was taking place and led me back to the stall. Placing the camera in my hands, he asked, "Do you want it?" Guilt mingled with excitement as I said, "Yes." The cost of the camera? A big 10 cents!

…And that was how I ended up with my first camera!

My journey into professional photography started in 2004. It all began with a collaboration on Warwick Orme's book 'Floranova,' followed by a Nokia phone shoot that introduced me to the world of advertising photography. This shoot also connected me with the renowned Ian Butterworth, whom I assisted for nearly a decade. Our studio was in the vibrant hub of Broadway, Sydney, right beneath Pioneer Studios (now Sun Studios) and above Bourke Street Bakery.

I was drawn to commercial photography by the thrill of adventure and being able to break free from the 9-5 routine. Working closely within a skilled team to produce high-end creative work with a global audience was also a major appeal. Photography assisting offered a wealth of diverse experiences. I loved working on big ideas, in specialized studios using the latest lighting technology, and being one of the first to experiment with cutting-edge large-format digital cameras. I was surrounded by passionate and inspiring individuals.

“The true highlight for me was having no experience and yet becoming an integral part of this tight-knit creative team.”

 

 

We're curious to know how your adventurous trip with Ben Harper influenced your career path and led to the establishment of Photographer Shane Rozario.

My journey as the official, unofficial photographer with Ben Harper during his UK tour was a life-altering fork in my career path. Arriving in England on a working holiday visa with only the goal of getting there, I was adrift without a plan or expectations. Having crossed paths with him and his band in Sydney and Bondi during their Australian tour only a couple of months before, discovering his UK tour was a delightful surprise.

Attending the first gig in Bristol, I leveraged my street smarts to sneak into the sound check and boldly asked to join the tour as his photographer.

“To my amazement he gave me permission. I was beside myself.”

This momentous event spurred me on to photography. Through my time in the UK I created photography projects for the Tibet Foundation, worked with image libraries, small arts organisations, and local businesses in London. I shot many portraits of musicians and documented stories, concerts and events over the 3 years I was there.

Once I returned to Australia, I found myself working in the newly emerging digital photographic industry. I engaged in various aspects, from image preparation to printing. I also worked at a commercial photography lab and later as a photographer's assistant, gaining practical experience. Concurrently, I pursued small commissions, pushing myself to learn and grow.

 

 

Your experience spans a range of fields. Can you share a notable project that was both memorable and posed significant challenges?

We did a shoot for HINO trucks a few years ago. What stands out for me was how we turned a low budget brief into a strong poster ad with a clear message, using the right talent, lighting to match well-chosen stock images and skilful retouching to bring all these elements together.

The ad was for Toyota Hino. Our brief was to capture the driver's perspective battling incredibly bad weather. Our focus was the driver's hand, a crucial element to tie the narrative together.

We shot the ad in my cosy Chippendale studio and enlisted a friend of mine for our hand model. As a carpenter, I knew his hands would be perfect for the story. Directing my tradie friend’s hand was amusing; I hadn't realised how expressive his hand could be.

“The challenge with this shoot was budget. Creating a campaign is tricky without a budget for the right talent.”

It was a great feeling to see the result. We overcame all obstacles and produced a convincing story. More importantly, it was loved by the agency and the client and we received more work from them as a result.

There is no substitute for the synergy of a skilled and talented team to ensure the success of any commission despite the budget constraints. The final ad and the BTS images can be seen on my website.

 

 

And then there's WeAreObservers. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this initiative? It sounds like it fosters inspiration among passionate photographers through community photo-events.

WeAreObservers is a project driven by the passion for adventurous photography, rooted in the belief that "before we are photographers, WeAreObservers." This concept harnesses observation to fuel creative thinking and deepen the connection between photographers and their images. WeAreObservers is a team of experienced photographers. We share a passion for sharing our knowledge.

With photography's popularity on the rise, people from hobbyists to emerging professionals, seek experiences and connections. Our programs cater to all levels, offering diverse events, from PhotoTalks to phone camera travel workshops, allowing individuals to craft their learning paths.

"One thing I discovered about photography is that it can be a catalyst for personal development."


Sharpening our observation skills enriches our lives, fostering positive personal growth. Our workshops bring together individuals who share a passion for using photography to explore their surroundings. We hone the art of observation, extending its benefits to various aspects of life beyond the realm of photography.

WeAreObservers connects our photography community and fosters engagement. We warmly welcome photographers interested in collaborating with us, whether for hosting workshops or showcasing their work in our PhotoTalks program.

 

For those aspiring to excel in commercial photography, what advice would you give them to navigate this dynamic industry?

 

To work commercially as a photographer there are a mixture of skills to acquire. Official education or practical hands-on learning - akin to an apprenticeship - can pave the way. I found the latter approach to be the most effective. When I started, I was clueless and lacked connections. Armed with a list of photographers' names and numbers, I reached out persistently, setting up meetings and sending portfolios. I eventually secured assisting gigs that immersed me in the field. I was 33 at the time, so much older than most who were assisting but my enthusiasm got me lots of work.

“If I can share one key message, it is to pursue photography with enthusiasm.”

Your fervor attracts the right people. Once you grasp the craft and industry, forging your unique path becomes more feasible. Your desire to get involved will receive attention from the right people. Photography is an ever-changing industry and there are many ways to approach it. If I can help, I’d be happy to.

 

We're eager to know more about your future plans. Are there any exciting upcoming projects or exhibitions you have in the works? What can we expect to see from you in the near future?

 

Here's a glimpse of what's happening with WeAreObservers:

 

  • Expanding our program: Seeking photographers to lead workshops and present work at our 2024 PhotoTalks. Interested? Reach out to us at contactus@weareobservers.com.

  • Astrophotography Adventures: We're running local and away trips to teach photographers astrophotography. No fancy gear needed, just your enthusiasm. Sign up for updates via our newsletter.

  • Exhibitions: Upcoming exhibition: a section of captivating long exposures from one of our members showcasing sunrise and sunset. Shot using digital cameras as well as his 10x8 film camera, the exhibition of his work is scheduled for January 2024.

 

About Shane Rozario

Shane Rozario entered photography through his passion for music. In 1998 he accidently ended up on the UK tour with Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals (USA) while he was backpacking in the UK. Since then, he has worked as a commercial photographer and a photographers’ mentor using his experience to teach photographers at all levels, creative thinking and photography skills.