In 1997, Mum and Dad bought me my first camera and I've been obsessed with capturing the world ever since. Throughout High School my main focus was to create a folio worthy of University acceptance, I shot everyday after school, mainly of my friends riding their bikes and the outdoors.
I was accepted into a Bachelors of Arts degree in Photography at Charles Sturt University in 2001 and learned the craft, history and ever-changing world of Photography over 3 years. During my time at University the world slowly but inevitably went digital, luckily I was able to learn both Digital and Analogue techniques to portray our dual world of immediacy and patience.
Since graduating from University I have travelled around the world capturing truly unique experiences to shape my photographic style. Highlights of my career include
A solo exhibition titled Elephant In The Room in Salamanca Place, Hobart, Tasmania. Showcasing work photographed in Thailand. The purpose being to fundraise for the rescue of an Asian Elephant from the streets of Thailand and relocated to a Elephant Sanctuary.
Photographing and competing in the world Highest Mountain Bike Race The Yak Attack in the Nepal Himalaya which was featured online and in print.
I was the lead photographer at the Australian Mountain Bike Championships for Aus Cycling in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023.
I have written many articles/photo essays that have been featured in AMB Magazine since 2018. Including coverage of the 2018 (Switzerland), 2019 (Canada) & 2022 (France) MTB World Championships. I also had my first Covershot with AMB in 2020 and a second Covershot for the milestone issue #200.
I am a preferred photography contractor for Tourism North East and Ride High Country, having shot multiple projects including 2 major (10 days+) campaigns for them in 2018/2021. The 2018 campaign imagery is still being used as Billboard advertising in Melbourne.
I have photographed for many bicycle companies including Specialized, Canyon, Mondraker, Scott, Giant, MAAP, Shimano, Monster Energy and Maxxis.
Matt Rousu
Based in Mount Beauty, Victoria, Australia