How Lockyer Valley turf farmer discovered love for photography
He was just seven-years-old when he first picked up a camera and as his passion for photography has grown, so has his fanbase.Now, he’s been voted the Lockyer Valley’s best photographer – a title he doesn’t feel comfortable claiming.
Gatton
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Craig Bachmann spends his days working on his employer’s turf farm and nights taking photos of the land he loves.
Whether he’s chasing storms, photographing tin sheds on properties across the Lockyer Valley or capturing cattle, the legend behind the lens took up the hobby as a way to relax at the end of the day.
Picking up a camera for the first time at the young age of seven, it wasn’t until his late 30s that Mr Bachmann decided to buy his own and start a side hustle in photography.
When he’s not working on the farm full-time, the photographer can be found taking photos of landscapes, at markets across the Lockyer Valley or putting his annual calendar together.
Featuring 12 of his favourite images captured throughout the year, the photographer includes scenes of the region he loves.
“I love the thought of capturing a special moment in time that I know will bring people joy when they look back at it in years to come,” he said.
“In 10 years time, some of these old houses and buildings that I love to capture may not be here anymore, so it’s important to capture these moments for the history books.”
The Gatton Star asked readers to nominate and vote for the Lockyer Valley’s best photographer and Mr Bachmann won after securing 90 per cent of the votes.
Despite his appreciation for the support, the photographer said he was inspired by many professionals in the field.
“I feel a bit uncomfortable being called the best because I know so many talented photographers in the Valley, especially those who do weddings and family portraits,” he said.
“I’m very thankful for all the locals who get behind me and the property owners who allow me to capture these moments on their properties – many who I’ve become great friends with.”
His favourite photo to date is of a Scottish Highlander he captured about 12 months ago, after the cow’s owner approached him to do the shoot.
Mr Bachmann’s 2023 calendars are now available to purchase in various retail outlets across the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba and Esk or online at craigbachmannphotography.com
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Originally published as How Lockyer Valley turf farmer discovered love for photography
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