Man On The Street – Michael Bradley
Age: 45
Occupation: Photographer and AMP Scholarship Winner
What’s your morning routine?
I have to be honest and say I am not a morning person. So first thing in the morning my wife makes me a coffee in bed before anything else. Then it’s a quick check of my emails. I race around getting my three boys ready and dropped off to school. I am then off to start my day either by working from home or off on a photo shoot.
What are the top three things on your bucket list?
Trek to Mt Everest Base camp. Visit Japan with the wife and kids. To see my exhibition travel within NZ, then overseas and then to start the second part of the project. The first part of this exhibition which is due to be exhibited at the Waitangi Museum in May 2018, has been helped by receiving an AMP Scholarship in November 2017.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Firstly – Chop off that mullet! And then marry well because your partner will become your biggest supporter and someone that you can lean on and bounce ideas around with.
How do you think the World will change over the next 20 years?
I look back at the changes over the past 20 years and can not imagine what the next 20 may bring but hopefully more emphasis on cleaner, greener living and thinking more about the future generations and what we are going to leave them. Work wise, creative and adaptable people are going to be in more demand that ever.
How do you stay motivated?
By setting bold and daring goals. I also constantly look at other peoples’ work, be that other photographers, film makers or other artists. No matter what the work is I can always find something positive and rewarding to take away and to aspire to.
If you didn’t need money, what would you do?
I would like to think not a lot would change. I cannot see any day I would not be taking photographs as that is who and what I am. But more travel would have to be on top of that list and also the continuation of my large personal projects.
What is your secret to success?
Come up with a great idea or dream and then it’s all down to bloody hard work and persistence, and never, ever giving up. A number of people will tell you no, or it’s too hard, too risky. Take advice from people you trust but also follow your instincts.
What’s the best bit of advice or quote that resonates with you?
Nelson Mandela – “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up”
What is your favourite restaurant to frequent?
Meredith’s on Dominion Road is by far my favourite restaurant, fine dining at its very best. The owner chef, Michael Meredith is an amazingly creative and inspiring chef and also someone that gives so much back to the community.
What is your secret to living a longer, more satisfying life?
Trying to have a good balance in all things, something that I am always trying to achieve and taking time to relax, taking stock and appreciating what you have and to be grateful.