Congratulations to Paul Pichugin who is the winner of the Adelaide Group’s latest challenge Beaches of South Australia.

Here is Paul’s moment in the spotlight…

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m 27, born in Adelaide, raised all over Australia, ended up living in Brisbane for the majority of my life though. I moved to Perth with my wife about 1 month ago. We drove from Brisbane to Perth Via Adelaide.. had an absolutely awesome trip.

2. When did you first discover you wanted to be a photographer and artist?
I got my first camera at age 6 when we moved from SA to QLD (Dad was in the Army), took some pretty decent pictures then.. I really got into it seriously when I got out of highschool though.

3. How does being a photographer and artist effect other aspects of your life?
I see things differently, I’m always looking at light and composition.. I simply can’t see things normally anymore.

4. What has been your greatest accomplishment as an artist up to the present date?
I’ve been nominated as Australia’s Top Photographer 2009 in 4 categories, I’ve been featured in Masters of Weddings Magazine, QLD Bride and I’ve got an interview in the next edition of Photo Review Australia

5. How did you discover RedBubble?
I don’t remember to be honest.. I think a friend on facebook suggested it..

6. Tell us about one person or moment that has made your time on redbubble particularly special or meaningful.
I’ve connected with many people on RB, I haven’t met any of them in real life yet, but I’m looking forward to meeting up with some of my online friends very soon. I’ve made some new fans and have found some great inspiration.. there hasn’t been any single moment that has been special.. and there are too many people that are special on here to single any of them out.

7. Tell us which five works and/or artists (either written or artwork) inspire you the most. How did you discover them?
Well, the first thing I bought on redbubble was an awesome tshirt by Scott Robinson. I also enjoy graphic and web design so I found Scott’s approach to design very refreshing and enjoyable.
Deeper Water by Naomi Frost is a particularly moving piece for me, it’s very understated with some great shades in it.
God Beam by Christopher Testi is another beautiful piece, I love slot canyons, I haven’t had a chance to visit any yet, but I love the depth of field in this shot, the lighting is just perfect. it’s an awsome shot, although his work in general does remind me somewhat of Peter Liks work.
The work of Dave Orias is really inspiring, the way he captures light and colour is amazing. I love his wave abstracts like Abstract Wave.

8. What are your favourite pieces of your own work that you are most proud to show off?
I’ve got a few favorites. I’ll list a couple of them…

Hamelin Bay II

SS Dicky Dawn

Otways Rainforest

Approaching Storm

Crawley Edge Boatshed

9. What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you while out taking photos?
There’s been a few funny incidents… one was at Beuchamp Falls taking this shot. I’m climbing over the rocks to find a good angle when I slip, but I don’t slip and fall over, I slip and fall up Home Alone style… then come crashing down into the water which was near on freezing. I managed to hold my camera and bag up above the water while I get completely drenched. Meanwhile my poor butt has been impaled by a stick. I ended up with some decent photos, a 5km hike back to the car and then a visit to the doctors for a couple of stitches and a tetanus needle. I quite like the photo though.

10. Where do you hope to be in five years time? Or even this time next year?
Doing photography full time… mostly landscapes.

~ Paul

Congratulations Paul – thanks for the story.

Excellent photograph, and I love the story here.
Amusing anecdotes and interesting information.

Hey All.. just an update.. I got the cover image!! Check it out, it’s in newsagents now :-)

- paul

Paul, I’ll buy it on Tuesday!