The Real Estate Studio is currently showcasing local photographer Mark Swick until July 28, 2015. We recently hosted a reception for his beautiful photographs of all things Charleston – window boxes, doors, wrought iron gates, and landscapes that celebrate the beauty of the Lowcountry. Mark certainly has talent and an appreciation for the architecture and charm of this town. We sat down with Mark to get the skinny on his photography, and here’s what he had to say…
Dunes Properties: What inspired you to start taking photos?Mark Swick: I have no formal background in photography, and it did not become a passion for me until I moved to Charleston in 2012. Living downtown and spending lots of time on a bike, I quickly developed an appreciation for the impressive historic architecture on the peninsula. Previously I had only used the camera on my iPhone casually, but I began to take pictures in earnest – mainly of doors and windows. I found myself seeking out entire neighborhoods and canvassing their entrances, gates and flower boxes. I was hooked, and it was around that time that I became more serious about sharing my photographs on Instagram. The support of the Instagram community propelled my interest further, and in 2014 I began shooting with a DSLR and editing primarily on a computer.
What is your absolute favorite thing to photograph in Charleston?After all this time I’m still entranced by Charleston’s different neighborhoods and architecture. I love being a part of this city; photographing Charleston homes and sharing them with others all over the world is my small contribution to what makes the Lowcountry so great.What do you like to do in your free time besides photography?I spend a lot of time exploring the city with my girlfriend, trying new restaurants and attending local events. I am also very involved in Charleston’s Jewish community.Do you plan on venturing into any other types of photography?I am really fortunate, especially of late, that my humble photography beginnings have led to new professional experiences. I recently photographed a couple’s engagement proposal, and have also done album cover and profile work for a local country duo. I hope to gain additional experiences in portraiture and event photography — who knows where that will take me!You can purchase Mark’s from his website, in any size or medium that you would like. You can also follow him on Instagram and Twitter. dunes properties agents Angela Wicke and Emily Gildea recently caught up with Mark at his Studio reception, and he is featured this week on their blog Lowcountry Love Letters. Check it out!Don’t forget to check back in to The Real Estate Studio where we showcase a new local artist every 6 weeks in our space. We love this town and all the talented people who live, work, and play here.