Conversations with Franz Bato

Today we’d like to introduce you to Franz Bato

Hi Franz, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m originally from Australia. I travelled to LA for the first time back in 2012. I had an online friend who lived in Culver City. When I visited, we met up! She was into photography, which inspired me to buy my first camera, a Nikon J1, I believe at Costco.I went back to Australia then I made my own Facebook page, and it just snowballed from there. I photographed pretty much everything that was interesting to me. I was inspired by the photos on Tumblr back then. I ended up connecting with photographers back in my small town and they had a lot of connections that led me to photograph festivals!
After a few years of networking and photographing events. I was inspired by another photographer named Jeff Isy. I soon upgraded my camera and started doing portrait photography. I was quite limited with locations and people to photograph but I just kept on practising with my friends. I went back to LA a couple of times and 2019 was the first time I joined a photo walk. where you connect with other creatives. I fell in love with portrait & fashion photography even more so when i went back home I joined more photo walks! I met so many creatives and a couple of mentors along the way who helped me to where I am now. Every time I visit LA which was 2023 and 2024, I always connect with agencies and do photoshoots and it just takes me back to how it all started

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say it has been the smoothest. I feel like whatever you do in life it won’t be the smoothest all the way. You will always go through bumps, especially since this all started as a hobby, i never went to school for it so when it comes to the business side of things. There is a lot to learn but in saying that. I’ve been blessed with the people around me helping with every thing!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I do a bit of everything at the moment. For my bread and butter, i do real estate photography, that’s always consistent.
I love shooting campaigns for brands. Fashion, and portrait photography are my favourite, getting to be creative on set. I started getting into filming as well.
I’m most proud of the network i have made along the way. I think without photography i’d be in my little shell.
I believe what sets me apart is having a passion for what I do and it shows on my work.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
for podcast: Rob Dial, Jay Shetty
books: how to make friends and influence people

Contact Info:

• Website: https://franzbato.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franzdiary/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franzbatophotography