Dennis Mock

Professional Photographer San Diego CA

PPA Master Photographer Craftsmen.

Behind the Lens: An Interview with Dennis Mock on Artfully Captured Moments That Tell Your Story

In this edition, we sit down with Dennis Mock, a renowned photographer based in San Diego, California. With a remarkable career deeply rooted in sports and architectural photography, Dennis shares insights into his journey and his passion for capturing the beauty of the world through his lens.

Interviewer: Dennis, thank you for joining us today. To start, can you tell us how your journey in photography began?

Dennis Mock: Thanks for having me! My journey in photography really took off during my college years at San Diego State University, where I studied Telecommunications and Film with a minor in Photojournalism. It was there that I fell in love with capturing moments and telling stories through images. My initial focus was on sports photography, which taught me to be quick on my feet and ready to capture the action as it happened.

Interviewer: Your background in sports photography must give you a unique perspective. How has it influenced your style?

Dennis Mock: Absolutely! Sports photography pushed me to develop a unique vision and technique. You learn to anticipate moments, to see things before they unfold. This skill translates beautifully into other types of photography, especially architectural and portrait work. I’ve also refined my eye for detail and composition over the years, which I believe is crucial in all photography.

Interviewer: You’ve received numerous awards throughout your career, including accolades from the Professional Photographers of San Diego (PPSDC) and Professional Photographers of America (PPA). What do these recognitions mean to you?

Dennis Mock: Winning awards like the Fellowship Award and being named San Diego Photographer of the Year nine times is incredibly humbling. It validates the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my craft. More importantly, it inspires me to keep learning and pushing myself. I also enjoy sharing my knowledge through workshops and mentoring younger photographers, so they can find their voice and creativity in this field.

Interviewer: Speaking of sharing knowledge, you’re part of several professional photography organizations. How has membership benefited your career?

Dennis Mock: Being involved in organizations like the Professional Photographers of America and the American Society of Media Photographers has been invaluable. They provide resources, networking opportunities, and a sense of community. It’s uplifting to connect with fellow photographers who are passionate about their work. Plus, attending workshops and events helps me stay updated on industry trends and best practices.

Interviewer: Let’s talk about your approach to composition. What techniques do you find most effective?

Dennis Mock: Great question! I emphasize several techniques in my work. The Rule of Thirds helps create balance and guides the viewer’s eye. I also use Leading Lines to draw attention to the subject, and Framing to add context by incorporating elements from the environment. Lastly, I love creating Depth in my images, which makes them feel more immersive. It’s about telling a story and inviting the viewer in.

Interviewer: That sounds fascinating! What motivates you to continue pursuing photography?

Dennis Mock: My passion for capturing the beauty of the world drives me. I find inspiration everywhere, whether it’s a breathtaking landscape or an intimate moment between people. I also have a deep commitment to inspiring future photographers. I hope to encourage others to embrace their creativity and follow their own paths in this incredible art form.

Interviewer: As a seasoned professional, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers?

Dennis Mock: I would say start by practicing as much as you can. Experiment with different styles and subjects to find what resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s where the learning happens. And remember, photography is about storytelling. So, focus on what you want to express through your images.

Interviewer: Thank you, Dennis! It’s been a pleasure hearing about your journey and insights into photography.

Dennis Mock: Thank you for having me! I appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences and hopefully inspire others along the way.

Dennis Mock continues to make a significant impact in the San Diego photography community, capturing stunning visuals that tell powerful stories. For those interested in his photography services, check out his portfolio or reach out for collaboration opportunities.