🎥 Welcome to today’s edition of The Mood Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Troy Fre, a bold and innovative fashion photographer whose journey from the scenic coastlines of Australia to the global stage is nothing short of inspiring. Troy’s work pushes the boundaries of traditional fashion photography by capturing raw, unfiltered emotions through his lens. Let’s dive deep into the heart of his photography philosophy and the creative process behind his iconic images.

---

Photography as an Exploration of the Soul

🧠 Troy sees photography as an expression of his soul, with each shot representing a unique connection between him and his subject. “Photography is personal,” Troy explains. “It’s my eye, my angle, my emotion.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me as I thought about how photography is more than just capturing an image—it’s about freezing a moment of truth. His focus on bringing emotion into every frame creates powerful visual stories that connect with viewers on a soul level.

The question of whether this connection was something he consciously honed over time or if it was innate led Troy to reflect on his process. He shared that his shoots, whether personal or commercial, are grounded in finding that unique emotional connection with his subjects. “For me, the most exciting part is getting the model’s personality into the photo,” he says. “It’s all about that twinkle in the eye.”

---

The Importance of Mental Health in the Creative Process

Troy opened up about the struggles he’s faced with anxiety and burnout throughout his career, something many creatives can relate to. “Last year, I was completely burnt out. I traveled so much, I forgot about myself,” Troy revealed. Despite being proud of his achievements, the intensity of constant work left him drained. Taking a break allowed him to reconnect with himself and rediscover his passion.

It’s a reminder that sometimes, stepping back is the most crucial part of moving forward. Taking time off helped Troy recharge and re-center, bringing more authenticity and depth into his photography. 💡

---

Empowering the Subject

One standout theme of our conversation was empowerment—particularly how Troy’s approach to photography aims to empower his subjects, especially women. Troy shared his experience of shooting women in ways that make them feel strong and beautiful, focusing on capturing their essence rather than sexualizing them. “Women are not just objects; they’re powerful, beautiful beings,” Troy emphasizes. This outlook, especially as a gay man, gives him a unique perspective that sets his work apart in the fashion industry.

By creating a space of comfort and connection, Troy’s photos showcase vulnerability and strength—two qualities that resonate deeply with his audience.

---

Film Photography: Capturing Light and Authenticity

Troy’s recent ventures into film photography have reignited his love for the medium, especially the way film captures light. “Film just has this ability to capture light in such a beautiful way, in a way digital can’t,” Troy says, emphasizing how shooting on film forces him to slow down, be mindful, and capture the moment. There’s an inherent magic in film photography that Troy feels is lost in today’s ultra-HD, high-definition digital world. 📸

---

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re a budding photographer or a seasoned pro, Troy’s journey is a testament to the power of trusting your instincts, staying grounded, and finding your unique voice in a crowded creative space. His message is simple but profound: believe in yourself, trust your process, and let your art be an authentic expression of who you are.

✨Key Takeaway: Find your voice and trust it. The connection you build through your lens will speak volumes. Stay curious, stay grounded, and let your creativity flow.