We had the good fortune of connecting with Doug Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Doug, what are you inspired by?
Beauty. Beauty can come in many forms while pursing photography. In nature I find beauty in the color of the sky, formation of the clouds, the placement of trees and the variety of wildlife. I also find beauty in a simple smile, the vibrant colors in clothing, and the chemistry people have during photo shoots. When it comes spefically to wrestling photography, there are things that inspire me and that I find beauty in. From the reaction from the crowd, the variety of lighting, the facial features that are expressed during a match and the pure athleticism that is displayed during a match that I’m fortunate enough to capture.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a photographer. I have my own business, DD Martin Images, in which I’m in the process of expanding and growing. I’ve done family photos, engagement photos, have my first wedding in the near futures and have spent a lot of time in nature taking photos. I’m currently the photographer for the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. What sets me apart from other photographer is my passion lies in wrestling photography. I have taken photos for several independent professional wrestling promotions here in Colorado. I do ringside photography as well as promo and portrait shots of the wrestlers. I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing talent as well as some international stars. The initial challenge is find getting to know a promotion and the wrestlers. I put in a lot of time meeting people, taking photos for fun and eventually making a name for myself. In the beginning I leaned on the feedback of friends to critic my work and help me grow. I took lessons from Brainbuster, Michal Watson, who is a well.know photography and currently works with All Elite Wrestling. The lessons allowed me to grow as a photographer as well as learn vital tips about photography in general and specifically my area of passion, wrestling photography.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would definitely check out Lucha Libre and Laughs at The Oriental theatre in Denver. Being I’m from Fort Collins, we would check out New Belgium, Odells, Horse and Dragon and several of the other great breweries in the area. Depending on the mood, we would head to Suehiro for sushi, Hacienda Real, Bawarchi Biryani Point or Youngs. When of my favorite spots to take a walk, fish and take photos is a Watson Lake in Bellvue. From there we can take a drive around Horsetooth Reservoir, doing some hiking and then head up the Poudre River.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My wife Tasha. She got me my first real camera that has allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a photographer. She has been there supporting me, giving me ideas, helping me do research and giving me never ending advise. Also to my daughter Austynn. She has been my favorite subject to shoot as I learn and grow with the art of photography. She has been very supportive and makes me feel special every step of the way.

Instagram: Ddmartinimages

Twitter: Ddmartinimages

Facebook: DD MARTIN IMAGES

Other: Ddmartinimages@gmail.com

Image Credits
All photos were taken by me, Doug Martin, DD Martin Images

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