BMW M4 Coupé in Black Sapphire metallic from Instagrammer shadow_m4

M PORTRAITS #8.

An interview with Instagrammer shadow_m4.

M Portraits #8.An interview with Instagrammer shadow_m4.
23. Aug 2019

Black is not a colour, some claim. Black is the strongest colour of them all, say the others. A quick glance at photographs of the BMW M4 Coupé with M Competition package taken by Instagrammer Mariano alias shadow_m4 is all you need to know which group the M enthusiast belongs to. Whether staged against a cool and monochrome backdrop or standing in strong contrast to the landscape, Mariano's BMW M4 is a supermodel in every respect. In our interview, the car lover and photographer reveals how he works and what inspires him.

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Instagrammer shadow_m4 and his BMW M4 Coupé

Instagrammer Mariano (@shadow_m4) and his BMW M4 Coupé in Black Sapphire metallic

The name of your Instagram profile leaves nothing to doubt – when and why did you choose your BMW M4?

 

The BMW E46 M3 is one my favourite cars and I’ve liked every generation of M3, especially in the classic black with red interior combo. When it finally came down to choosing a car of this level, there was no question that it would be an M. They encompass the performance that you’d expect out of a track car, but with the comfort that makes them fun to drive on the road. I was set on the colour combo and manual transmission, so the hardest part was deciding between the current generation M3 and M4. Ultimately, it came down to the M4, as I feel the coupé is more my style.

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BMW M4 Coupé from shadow_m4
BMW M4 Coupé from shadow_m4

Your M4 is also equipped with M Performance parts – which ones have you chosen and what is so attractive about them?

 

I chose most of the M Performance parts that were available at the time. Starting at the front, I have the carbon fibre splitters and front lip, which tie in nicely with the lines of the side skirts. I also added the carbon fibre mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear diffuser. Additionally, I installed the M Performance height adjustable suspension kit, providing a lower stance and improved performance, which is especially noticeable around sharp corners or during quick manoeuvres.

 

Overall, I love how well the M Performance parts compliment the design of the M4. All the subtle details add up to make a big impact.

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Where do you find inspiration for your photography?

 

I work in advertising and technology, so I’ve been around some incredible photographers, cinematographers and creatives, who have all influenced and inspired me.

 

I also find inspiration amongst the many talented photographers I’ve met through Instagram. We’re always sharing tips, techniques and ideas with one another, which is huge source of inspiration to continuously push and improve my skills.

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“It feels like an entirely different art form”
BMW M4 Coupé from shadow_m4
BMW M4 Coupé from shadow_m4

What came first: the passion for BMW M or the love of photography?

 

That’s hard to say. I’ve been into photography for over 10 years, but automotive photography was completely new to me, as I got the M4 in 2017. It feels like an entirely different art form and it has taken a lot of practice, both shooting and editing. I’m still learning new techniques and growing as a photographer, so it’s been a fun and welcome challenge that combines my passions for BWM M and for photography.

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BMW M4 Coupé from shadow_m4

What made you decide to share your enthusiasm with other Instagram users?

 

At first, it was to connect and meet other BMW enthusiasts. In doing so, I received a lot of positive feedback on the M4 and the photos. So, as my Instagram account gained momentum, I started putting more time into the photography, with an effort to capture the aesthetic details of the M4.

 

The BMW M community is extremely strong and supportive. It is truly amazing how many friends I’ve made over the last couple of years, both locally and around the world. This type of camaraderie and continuous support is what motivates me to keep sharing my passion and enthusiasm.

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Thanks a lot for the interview, Mariano!

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shadow_m4 Instagram
BMW M GmbH Instagram

BMW M4 Coupé:
Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 10.0 (9.3)
CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 227 (213)
The figures in brackets refer to the vehicle with seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic.

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  • The models illustrated include optional equipment.

    Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.

    Official data on power consumption and electric range were determined in accordance with the mandatory measurement procedure and comply with Regulation (EU) 715/2007 valid at the time of type approval. In case of a range, figures in the NEDC take into account differences in the selected wheel and tire size; figures in the WLTP take into account any optional equipment. WLTP values are used for assessing taxes and other vehicle-related charges that are (also) based on CO2 emissions, as well as for the purposes of vehicle-specific subsidies, if applicable. Where applicable, the NEDC values listed were calculated based on the new WLTP measurement procedure and then converted back to the NEDC measurement procedure for comparability reasons. For newly type-tested vehicles since 01.01.2021, the official data no longer exist according to NEDC, but only according to WLTP. For more information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures, see https://www.bmw.com/wltp.

    For further information about the official fuel consumption and the specific CO2 emission of new passenger cars can be taken out of the „handbook of fuel consumption, the CO2 emission and power consumption of new passenger cars“, which is available at all selling points and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

    All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.