Behind the lens
Hailing from New Zealand, Miriam Strong began her career as a photographer, focusing on lifestyle, documentary and sports. Transitioning into filmmaking stemmed from her desire to explore issues beyond the confines of single images. She has directed two documentary shorts and currently resides in London, continuing to pursue her passion for storytelling through film and photography.
M&Co - What's your favourite location for photography and why?
Miriam - So far, it’s Bulgaria. I got to shoot the Roma community there for Friends of the Earth Europe. It was such an amazing experience to be in a world that was completely outside my bubble. Also, the food in Bulgaria is so so good.
M&Co - Correct me if I'm wrong, but this project isn't typical for you. Can you share a bit about your usual style of work?
Miriam -No, it wasn’t. I usually shoot people, so I shoot a lot of Lifestyle in a documentary style, I would say. I’m also starting to shoot sports in the same way. The lighting you wanted for the mock-ups was still familiar to me. It was just more focused on the buildings, which was fun.
M&Co - You've been living in London for a while now. What aspects of the city inspire your creativity?
Miriam - London is a funny one for me. I go in and out of being inspired, but personal projects get me back into it. I think the diversity in London is such a strength. You have the whole world in one place.
M&Co - What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far?
Miriam - I think an ongoing hurdle is believing in yourself and just to keep pushing forward. You have to be very disciplined as a freelancer and continue to push yourself.
M&Co - What’s the most effective way to attract and retain clients in your industry?
Miriam - There's not one way to get clients, but word of mouth is vital. Building relationships is also essential. You may not get a job with someone immediately, but as long as you keep in touch, things can happen later. Clients want you to be easy to get along with. There's a balance between being fun and being professional.
M&Co - What’s been your favourite project of 2024 so far?
Miriam - I did a personal project with some runners in the summer, which was cool. It was shot at dusk and into the evening. I also had a good friend of mine who is DOP to shoot the video part of the project, so it was really great collaborating with friends.
M&Co - What’s next in your creative journey?
Miriam - I’ve constantly got personal projects on the go, stills and video all at different stages. My main focus currently is to get represented by an agent, so I’m putting a lot of energy into that.
M&Co Top 3 inspirational resources you recommend visiting?
Miriam -
A. MOVIES. Watch loads of films! The lighting is always inspiring, and the subject matter is endless.
B. Photobooks. The power of seeing an image in print is incredible. Photobooks have always inspired me and driven me to shoot still projects.
C. Reading the news/articles. Because I shoot people and documentaries, this is a great way to find stories to shoot, whether in small local newspapers or big stories.
