Interview with Jürgen Feichter

The Magazine For Photographers
Apr 14
5 min read

This week’s Interview with Jürgen Feichter, a very talented Event Photographer from Austria.

You can find him on Instagram as: @jfkfeichter

Can you introduce yourself?

Hello! My name is Jürgen Feichter, also known as JFK. I’m an award-winning photographer based in Kaprun, Austria, specializing in sports, landscape, portrait and travel photography. My passion also extends to drone photography, weddings, and events. I’ve had the privilege of sharing my expertise as a Canon ProForum Speaker, inspiring others in the field of photography.

How long have you been photographing events, and what types of events have you covered?

I’ve been photographing events professionally since 2007. In 2008, I co-founded EXPA Pictures with a colleague, allowing us to focus on capturing high-profile events and unique moments. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of covering the Olympic Winter Games, various World Championships, UEFA European Football Championships, Formula 1, MotoGP, and many other sports disciplines.

In addition to large-scale international events, I also enjoy working at smaller festivals and local gatherings, which offer their own unique charm and energy. My goal is always to tell a story through my lens, no matter the size or scale of the event

How would you describe your photography style?

I would describe my photography style as uniquely “JFK Style.” Over the years, I’ve developed an approach that sets my work apart from other photographers. I strive to capture unconventional angles and perspectives while maintaining a clear focus on the essence of the moment. My goal is to combine creativity with storytelling, ensuring that every image stands out and tells a compelling story.

Do you adapt it for different types of events?

Absolutely. It’s essential to tailor my approach to the type of event I’m photographing. Every event has its own unique atmosphere and requirements, so I make a conscious effort to adapt my style accordingly. Whether it’s the fast-paced action of a sporting event, the vibrant energy of a festival, or the intimate moments of a wedding, I ensure my photography reflects the essence of the occasion.

What’s your preparation process for an event?

My preparation process for an event always begins with research. I take the time to understand the event, study the location, and even consider details like the position of the sun to optimize lighting. I also plan specific shots in advance that I want to capture to ensure I don’t miss any key moments.

From a technical perspective, I like to work with a variety of focal lengths to create diverse and dynamic compositions. This combination of planning and adaptability helps me deliver the best possible results.

How do you ensure you’re ready for any scenario?

Preparation is key to being ready for any scenario. I rely heavily on thorough pre-planning and adhering to the personal standards I’ve developed over the years. This helps me anticipate most situations and stay focused.

That said, you can never be fully prepared for the unexpected. A perfect example is during the Euro 2016 in Marseille, at the England vs. Russia match. In an instant, I had to switch from photographing a football game to capturing sudden riots when a Russian hooligan appeared right next to me. Situations like these teach you to adapt quickly, stay composed, and let experience guide you through unpredictable moments.

What kind of equipment do you use, and why do you prefer it for event photography?

Canon—simply Canon. I’ve been using Canon equipment since the beginning of my career, and it’s always felt like home to me. The colors, the handling, and the overall performance perfectly suit my style and needs.

Currently, I shoot with the Canon R5 Mark II and always carry two bodies with me. This setup allows me to work efficiently, especially since I primarily use prime lenses. The combination of reliability, precision, and image quality makes Canon my go-to choice for event photography.

How do you handle lighting in different event settings, especially in low light or outdoor venues?

Over the years, camera technology has advanced significantly, making high ISO settings like ISO 6400 no longer an issue. I primarily focus on observing where the light is coming from and use it as the foundation for my compositions. Whether in low-light environments or outdoor venues, understanding and utilizing available light allows me to create natural, dynamic, and visually compelling images. If necessary, I complement the ambient light with subtle artificial lighting to enhance the atmosphere without overpowering the scene.

What’s your approach to capturing candid moments versus posed shots at events?

My approach is to let moments unfold naturally. In sports photography, posed shots aren’t an option, so it’s essential to anticipate what could happen next. Understanding the flow of the event and being prepared for key moments allows me to capture authentic, candid emotions and actions. This mindset also influences how I approach other events, where I focus on creating genuine, unscripted images that truly reflect the atmosphere and energy of the moment.

How do you interact with clients during the event to ensure they are satisfied with the coverage?

I always start with a detailed discussion to understand exactly what the client wants from the event coverage. Clear communication is key. My clients appreciate that I stay true to my photography style and approach, which is why they trust me to deliver authentic and high-quality results. During the event, I remain attentive and adaptable, ensuring that any specific requests are addressed while still capturing the event naturally and creatively.

What’s your backup plan if there’s an equipment failure during an event?

Equipment failure can happen, especially in challenging conditions like rain, snow, or extreme cold. The key is to stay calm and adapt to the situation. That’s why I always carry two cameras and a selection of lenses to ensure I can continue shooting without interruption. This backup setup allows me to quickly switch gear if needed and keep capturing important moments without compromising the quality of my work.

What has been the most challenging event you’ve photographed, and how did you overcome it?

One of the most challenging events I’ve photographed was the Red Bull Air Race in Spielberg. I had the incredible opportunity to shoot the race from a helicopter, capturing the planes and the action from above. The challenge? I have a fear of heights. I was harnessed and standing on the skids of the helicopter, photographing straight down, which made me extremely nauseous. However, I overcame this by fully focusing on the task at hand—capturing the perfect shots. Shifting my concentration to the photography helped me push through the discomfort and deliver the results.

Do you do your own post-processing?

Absolutely, I handle all of my post-processing myself. I exclusively use Adobe Lightroom to ensure that each image reflects my personal style and meets the highest quality standards. This allows me to maintain full creative control over the final look and feel of my work. However, when real-time delivery is critical, I work with three carefully selected editors who are trusted to match my editing style. This allows me to provide fast, professional results without compromising on quality.

How much editing do you typically apply to event photos?

I apply my own color grading to all my event photos, which I occasionally adjust slightly to suit the mood or setting of the event. Beyond that, I keep the editing minimal to preserve the authenticity and natural atmosphere of the moments I capture. My goal is to enhance the images subtly without altering their genuine feel.

What is your typical turnaround time for delivering photos after an event?

I typically deliver photos in real-time during the event. For example, during a football match, I send 30–60 images while the game is still in progress. This quick turnaround ensures that clients have immediate access to key moments for live updates, social media, or press releases. Fast and efficient delivery is a key part of my workflow.