Les Horvat Resume'

After completing his degree from R.M.I.T in Melbourne Australia, Les Horvat began as a commercial photographer from Dow Street Studios in South Melbourne.

" I was pretty impatient to start shooting and be part of the industry, as I'd already spent a few years completing other studies and travelling, so I took the bit between my teeth and joined Peter Walton at his studio in Dow Street."

The following years were spent consolidating himself as a commercial illustrator and developing a sound client base. After four years with Peter, Les Horvat joined the well respected Lighthouse Photographic Centre, working independently within the studio complex created by Rob Imhoff. At the same time he maintained his links with education, firstly by lecturing part time at ACPAC, subsequently at Photography Studies College in Melbourne and now at R.M.I.T University.

" I feel being a working photographer, who also teaches is important, as it not only enables me to give a little back to the industry but it keeps me honest. There's nothing like the direct questioning of ideas and attitudes that youthfull inquiring minds bring to a vision - they certainly don't let you get away with much!".

Throughout, Les Horvat has continued to win numerous awards which recognise his commitment to excellence and innovation.

He took out the Kodak Professional Achievement Award which entitled him to a trip to New York where he used the opportunity to visit a number of commercial studios.

He has also won the Ilford Trophy for Black & White excellence and in 1997 became a Master within the Australian Institute of Professional Photography.

In addition, Les has won numerous Silver awards in the Australian Professional Photography Awards, been accepted into the Fuji Collection through The Society of Advertising, Commercial and Magazine Photographers as well as having his commercial work exhibited throughout Australia and in Korea.

For a detailed curriculum vitae click here