On this episode of The PHYS Podcast, Tyson Martin sits down with acclaimed Melbourne-based photographer Mark Forbes for a thoughtful conversation about documentary photography, film, photobooks, exhibitions, and the art of finding meaning in everyday moments.

Known for his contemplative and atmospheric approach to photography, Mark has built an international reputation through his distinctive images of street scenes, urban landscapes, architecture, and the subtle interactions between people and the environments they inhabit. His photographs transform ordinary spaces into visual narratives filled with mood, memory, and quiet observation.

Working primarily with traditional medium format film cameras for his personal projects, Mark embraces a slower, more intentional approach to photography. His images reflect a deep curiosity about human behavior, place, and the passage of time, revealing the beauty and complexity hidden within everyday life.

In 2023, Mark released his highly acclaimed debut monograph, Collected Memories, published by Hatje Cantz. The book launched at the prestigious Paris Photo festival, where Mark participated in a signing event and introduced his work to an international audience. The publication was later shortlisted as a finalist for the PHOTO 2024 Australian & New Zealand Photobook of the Year award, further establishing his place among today's leading documentary photographers.

Throughout his career, Mark's work has been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions across Australia and internationally, earning recognition for its distinctive visual language and emotional depth.

His achievements include:

• Winner of The Gomma Grant for Best Color Photograph (2019)
• Two-time winner of the OptiKA Photographic Award (2020 & 2024)
• Second Place, International Photography Awards (IPA) Analog Fine Art Category (2022 & 2024)
• Runner-Up, Head On Portrait Award (2021)
• Finalist in numerous prestigious national and international photography awards
• Featured artist at Leica Camera AG Headquarters in Wetzlar during the Leica M6 launch celebration

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Mark Forbes' journey as a documentary and street photographer
• Why he continues to shoot personal work on medium format film
• The philosophy behind photographing everyday life and urban environments
• The story behind creating and publishing Collected Memories
• His experience launching the book at Paris Photo 2023
• Lessons learned from exhibiting work internationally
• Insights into photography competitions, awards, and recognition
• The role photobooks play in preserving photographic projects
• Why slowing down often leads to stronger photographs and deeper storytelling

This episode is a fascinating exploration of documentary photography, observation, and the enduring value of film in a digital world.

Mark's work reminds us that photography is often less about finding extraordinary subjects and more about learning to see ordinary subjects differently. Through patience, curiosity, and careful observation, he reveals stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Whether you're a film photographer, documentary photographer, photobook collector, street photographer, artist, or creative seeking inspiration, this conversation offers valuable insight into developing a meaningful and lasting photographic practice.

The most memorable photographs often come from learning to see the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary.

Follow Mark Forbes:
Instagram: @_markforbes_
Threads: @_markforbes_
Website: www.markforbes.com.au
Book: Collected Memories