1 Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?

My name is Ondrej Blaho, and I'm 40 years old. I photograph, write novels, dive, and am blessed with three children and the love of my life!

2 Where did you study photography?

I am a self-taught photographer. I have been actively photographing since 2017. At the beginning, I experimented with different genres including macro photography or landscapes, but I like documentary, street photography and abstract portraits the most.

3 Do you remember your first shot? What was it?

I was about eight years old, and my aunt, a college photography teacher, was trying to explain to me the magic of long exposure in a picture of a stream in the middle of the forest to no avail.

4 What equipment do you use?

Leica Q2/Q3, Sony A7IV and OM-D 5

5 What compliment inspired/touched you the most?

None yet but I am excited at the prospects of knowing that my photography has moved someone.

6 What inspires your unique storytelling?

I like the raw black and white stories of Anton

7 What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?

Black and White, blurred and story.

8 Congratulations! As the winner of the MUSE Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?

I am honestly proud that I managed to win in the given category and it certainly gives me a lot of energy to further develop my style.

9 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the MUSE Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

This short documentary series offers a behind-the-scenes look at a cabaret, or burlesque show. It features women from the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and Ukraine, showcasing their surprisingly lengthy preparations that begin about four hours before the performance. The series highlights the stark contrast between the luxurious auditorium and the cold, gritty backstage area.

10 How has winning an award developed your career?

That remains to be seen but I am however, very well prepared for any development in my career!

11 What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?

Start, don't be afraid, set a clear path to find your style, attend workshops, online seminars, but above all, constantly take photos.

12 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

Toughness.

13 How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?

Every month I try to attend at least one online workshop, and every month I also treat myself to a new book for my collection.

WINNING ENTRY

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fashion Photography - Beauty

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fashion Photography - Portraiture

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fine Art Photography - Beauty

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fine Art Photography - Open Theme

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

People Photography - Emotion

Amateur
2025

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

People Photography - Portrait

Amateur
2025
Adela Hrncalova

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fine Art Photography - Portrait

Amateur
2025

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Fashion Photography - Portraiture

Amateur
2025
Before the end

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Editorial Photography - Candid

Amateur
2024

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Black & White Photography - Children

Amateur
2024

Photographer / Company

Ondrej Blaho

Category

Editorial Photography - Documentary