Once upon a time in Alex land....

Feature Interview - 365 days: Bella Kotak

2012-01-11T10:32:00.000Z

Ok so I kinda lied...I have one more interview for the 365 feature, but I think you'll be greatful cause she's pretty bloody amazing!!

Here is the beautiful Bella Kotak!

Day sixytwo

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

Hi, my name is Bella and I’m originally from Kenya, right now, I’m currently living in Oxford, England. I would say that my interest in photography began when I was very young, I was always fascinated by photos and would always play with my Dad’s camera. I began to take photography seriously nearly three years ago now when I came across Flickr. I was at a period of my life when I was feeling very lost and low and begun to crave for a creative outlet.

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2. What made you decide to start a 365?

When I began my 365 I was unemployed and since I had time I liked the idea of a routine. The feeling of accomplishing something new and different everyday motivated me. Plus it seemed like the perfect way to improve both artistically/ technically quickly.

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3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

Haha oh I’d love to say that my pictures turned out exactly like I’d planned them but that would be an exaggeration. To be honest most of my pictures were nothing like I’d envisaged but in hindsight actually turned out better. Generally, I would have an idea about the location and the mood/ emotion I wanted to portray. I’d also rock up with a ton of props, just incase I decided to toss out original concepts and exchange them for something that was more suited! Editing wise I use photoshop CS5.

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4. What are your tools of the trade?

At the moment I use the Canon 450d, Canon 50mm f1.8, Canon 17-85mm lens, a manfrotto tripod and a remote.

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5. Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365’s?

I guess it could possibly come down to the fascination of another person’s art, life and thinking process. I know I follow people that have belief in their work, they have an idea of what they want to present to the world and are unashamed in laying themselves bare for comments and critique. Starting a 365 is also a creative way of documenting your life day by day, for a year. You learn a lot about yourself as a person in that time!

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6. What is your least favourite 365 shot you’ve taken so far and why?

There are quite a few, but possibly this one...

as I didn’t have much time and wasn’t feeling inspired at all, and it shows.

7. What is your favourite 365 shot you’ve taken so far and why?

This one...

...as it was one of the first few times that I’d begun to include my cat in my little stories.

8. What is your favourite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

There are too many!! One of them is definitely this one by Kalie Garrett...

It feels almost iconic. I could stare at it for hours..

9. What are some of your favourite things :)?

Haha I have lots of little things I like, one of my favourite things is my camera (of course!), my rings (I have too many!), fairy lights, sequins, my books and randomly, my postcards.. I have a collection from all the places I’ve visited in the world.

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10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Lighting! Good lighting can change an ordinary photo into an extraordinary one. It’s the first thing I notice and since I mostly work with natural light it’s core to where and when I take photos.

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11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Yes I think so. It’s happened naturally. I find the natural world so inspiring. It’s a perfect backdrop for mini adventures and fantastical things to take place. Plus because of the project I’ve discovered so many beautiful locations around me that I had no idea about!

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12. What do you do when you feel like giving it all up?

I guess when it all gets a bit too much or when I’ve lost motivation, I find that it helps when I take a little break. Go into hibernation of sorts. After a while I find I miss it and when I come back to it I feel refreshed and excited again.

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13. Who’s 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

Ah there are so many! I have to say that I loved Lissy Elle’s when she was doing it and Alex Stoddard’s. Both artists incorporate nature and fantasy beautifully! I also love Kalie Garrett’s work. Her photos are stunning.

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14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Oh dear I have too many! Favourite films would be V for Vendetta, Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle, Amelie, too many..

Favourite book only because I’ve read it so often would be South of the sun, west of the border by Haruki Murakami (all his books are beautifully written!) and favourite music would be the different subgenres of dubstep.

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15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography and 365?

I would say that every opportunity that I’ve had from meeting new people, to booking jobs has been an achievement. From starting as a complete amateur to people trusting me to document the most important day of their lives, well, that’s just insane and so humbling.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Sometimes. I guess as long as you recognise that as an individual you would have your own perspective on the world and particular ideas and once you begin to create with conviction in your own individuality then as a result no doubt your work will be original!

17. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

Haha it’s hard to pick! But I’d say this one -

I didn’t have a remote so had to run to and from the camera to press the shutter and check focus. It also didn’t help that my bike doesn’t have a stand so it kept toppling over, sometimes taking me with it. I think at some point I was also standing in a patch of stinging nettles and of course. as usual, I was wearing inappropriate footwear! Needless to say I had very sore feet and was a little exhausted afterwards :)

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?
Yes, more often than not the image is manipulated in Photoshop. Exposure, tone and white balance is corrected and colours are played with. Photoshop allows me to translate what I see and feel at that moment into something tangible.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

No, I don’t think I do. I think as a young artist it’s really important to experiment and to keep shooting. I hope that the more I shoot and produce the more my creative eye will sharpen.

20. What is your favourite time of year to take photos?

I love taking photos in spring and autumn! The atmosphere of colour and change is hard to resist.

21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Hm maybe a young Kate Moss or a younger Angelina Jolie, it would be fascinating to meet them too!

22. Give us the skinny, what’s the next big project you’ve got coming up?

There’s something in the pipeline which I’m very excited about but won’t talk of it just yet least I jinx it. Otherwise one of my resolutions this year is to shoot more, once a week if I can organise myself!

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Hmm I don’t know.. Even though we look nothing alike, maybe Audrey Tautou? (haha another girl crush!)

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I wanted to be everything! But I think it was up to the age of 17 that I wanted to be an astronaut.

Thank you so much Bella, see more of her amazing work on her stream here

Peace xx

Feature Interview - 365 days: Joel Robison (a.k.a Boy Wonder)

2011-12-01T10:45:00.001Z

It's been a while since my last interview, but boy am I making up for that with this next interview! Joel (Boy Wonder) has literally today finished his 3rd 365, his images are so impeccably crafted and his imagination seems just endless.

This will change your life!

Day threehundredandsixtyfive

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

Well, my name is Joel Robison and I live in Cranbrook, British Columbia, in Canada. It's a small town in the Rocky Mountains. I first started to get into photography about 4 years ago, I had stumbled across Flickr and saw a few people doing different projects and I thought it was a fun hobby to try out. I've been active on Flickr ever since!

2. What made you decide to start a 365?

I started my first one about 3 years ago and I had started just because I saw some other people doing it and I thought it looked like fun. I didn't finish that first try, but I ended up trying it again a few months later and stuck with it. I decided to do my 2nd and 3rd 365 projects because I think it's an excellent way to grow as an artist and to stretch yourself creatively.

3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

I have a notebook that bring with me all the time that I use to brainstorm different ideas, when I think of a concept or a theme I write it out and then branch out possible photos I could do with it. Then I go out and shoot! I'm almost always alone when I work, I find it's easier to stay focussed and to get the shots that I need when I'm by myself. Depending on the shot I'm working on, it takes anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours of shooting to get all the images I need. I try to edit the photos right away because I feel that it really helps to work on an image in the same mindset. Most of my images are edited in between an hour to two hours.

4. What are your tools of the trade?

Well, I use a Canon Xti which is an older model but it does the trick! I mainly use a 50mm 1.8 lens. I also have a lightweight tripod and a wireless remote. I use Photoshop to edit my images.

5. Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365's?

I think they are drawn to it because it's a challenge and it's a chance to try new things. I also think it's a great visual diary of a year of your life so it's a chance to document your life and share it with others. I think that people like following them because it gives you a great opportunity to get to know an artist and learn about their lives and see them grow day to day.

6. What is your least favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

I would say this one:

I was in a bad mood that day and I got caught in a thunderstorm which ended up making me stranded in this little brick hut for a few hours. I didn't feel like taking anything else that day so I was stuck with this shot and I didn't really like it.

7. What is your favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Wow, it's hard to pick a favourite but if I had to, I would say this one:

because it came out exactly the way I had in my head and that never happens. I was feeling really stressed at that time with a job that I didn't like and feeling like I didn't know where my life was going and this really felt like it fit how I felt about life, that I was just a silhouette and nothing real.

8. What is your favourite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

Wow, an even HARDER question! I would have to say this one by David Talley:

He is so clever and his use of space and light is just beautiful. I love how this image is just simply done yet speaks so much.

9. What are some of your favourate things :)?

Well, I love bicycles, coffee, gnomes, peace signs, and cameras :)

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Use manual settings! If you learn everything that your camera can do, it's the first step to being able to take a shot in any situation.

11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

I think so. I live a beautiful area of the world and I want to incorporate as much of it as i can, partly because it inspires me and partly because I want to share it with the rest of the world.

12. Who's 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

I would have to say Brooke Shaden's 365 project. I was able to see it from just about the beginning to end and her growth and development as an artist was beautiful to see.

13. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

I really enjoy Canadian music like Sarah Slean, Sarah Harmer, and Feist but I also enjoy Coldplay :) I like a variety of movies, mostly ones with lots of whimsy or surrealism like Alice In Wonderland.

14. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography and 365?

I would say for me the biggest achievement has been the growth that I've been able to make from the start of my project until now, I'm proud of the skills I've learned and i'm happy that people enjoy what I do.

15. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

I think that it can be hard not to do cliche things in a 365 project but each person can interpret ideas in their own way which makes it original. I think that as long as you are staying true to your own vision, it's original!

16. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

Easily this one:

Not because the image itself was difficult to do, but the mosquitoes were so thick that there was literally a black cloud following me, with about 100 of them biting me at once. I could only manage to take about 10 photos before having minor freak out and at one point I think I swore quite loudly!

17. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

It really depends on the image itself, sometimes I just play with the tones and contrast a bit but other times I create a lot of additions like lighting, props, and textures.

18. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

Um, I don't think I do, but other people have told me that I do. I think that I use a lot of the same techniques like multiple objects close to the edge to create DOF, but I don't know if that's original style or not :)

19. What is your favourate time of year to take photos?

Hmmm......I would say spring time because the weather is usually nice and the sun is out long enough to give me lots of time to shoot. Each season brings with it, it's own set of advantages and disadvantages and the fun part is trying to incorporate them all!

20. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Wow...tough question. I think if I could photography anyone it would be my grandparents. I only have one living grandmother now and I would love to have been as involved in photography when my other grandparents were alive to capture them in my own way.

21. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

haha! Well, I have a blog that I'll be posting tutorials and different stuff (joelrobisonphoto.wordpress.com ) I'm also hoping to being a 52 weeks project in January called The Teleidoscope.

22. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Um....if I got to choose I would say maybe Ryan Gosling :)

23. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid

I would always answer with: A Disney Animator

This was definately one of the hardest interviews to construct simply because I wanted to pick so many images to feature!!!

Although Joel has finished his 3rd 365 Day Project (seriously this guy is magic!) he says he will still be posting regularly, plus...I only managed to show you a small sample of the amazing journey (or rather one of the amazing journey's) Joel has been on.

So go HERE and view more of Joel's insanely amazing work :)

I hope you liked the 365 feature, please let me know if you have any ideas for upcoming features, if you know any photographers you think I should feature....or if you would like to be featured yourself!

Peace

x

Feature Interview - 365 Days: Rachel Marie Smith

2011-09-28T11:09:00.000+01:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to get up another interview, but you won't be dissapointed with who I have up next. The amazing Rachel Marie Smith!!

Day one

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?  

I was born and raised in Bucks County, Pennsylvania with my parents, and that’s where I’m living now until I transfer to another college in the following year. As for my first camera, Santa gave me a purple APS style camera for Christmas when I was 8 years old. I didn’t know that I should have angled it up toward people in order to frame them into the photograph. The result was whole roll was of various members of the family around the Christmas tree, but they were all headless. We still have those pictures in an album, haha. I’ve loved photography ever since then, but never really got creative with it until high school.

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2. What made you decide to start a 365?

I’m a cinema/film major in college and wanted to upgrade to a DSLR that would shoot video as well. I already had a Canon XTi, so I decided to do the 365 for 2011 when I bought my Canon60D to get use of the camera everyday between filming dates, and to make the expense worthwhile. It’s really helped me get to know the camera and all of its settings that way too.

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3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

Depends on the time of the year. During the semester I’ll grab one of the guys from the lab and good off and take a photo with them somewhere on campus, because that’s usually what I can fit into my day around work and class. During breaks though I’m able to plan out shoots, models, etc. and that’s really nice. Sometimes I’ll just close my eyes and picture everything before I go. There’s other times though, where I’ll bring along what I want in the shot—the model, the prop(s)—and allow the story in the photo to develop as we get to the location. Editing wise it takes me while. I’ll spend at least an hour in color correction alone messing around with curves, and textures, adjusting skin-tones sometimes the way I want them even.

Here’s an example of a before and then the after…

The before is only the first of many shots before there was any color correct of layers blended toegether.

4. What are your tools of the trade? 

Canon60D, Tripod, wireless remote, my lenses, Photoshop CS5

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5. Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365's?

I’m going to settle with the challenge factor. I think a lot of people want to do it, because they think it will be ‘really cool’ and don’t realize how time consuming and at times stressful it will become.

Day onehundredandtwentyone

6. What is your least favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Hahaha, I have a lot that I’m not a fan of. After I’m done with my 365 I’ll go through and more than likely take them down, but while I’m still doing the 365 I’m baring with them still being up. Day 14 or 42 are two examples of the ones that I really don’t know what I was thinking when I posted them. The one with Angel, my Corgi I was testing out the night vision setting on the camera I was using and wanted to share that, but otherwise…it’s a pretty terrible photo and the food was delicious, but that was abut all that was good about that picture.

Day fourteen

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7. What is your favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Currently, I’m a fan of Day 203 – Demented Wonderland. It was the first photo that I had turn out exactly as I had planned it in my mind. I had it sketched out and everything and planned a few days ahead of time. Most of this was thanks to my accommodating models. Namely David in this case who was the guy surrounding Christine. The fabric he was covered in was disgusting smelly mud from a nearby creek that we had soaked the fabric in before covering him up in it.

8. What is your favourite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

Masha Sardari’s 365 is beautiful! I have a few favorites from her 365, but always seem to sway toward Day 233 - Sunrise is like Morning in Your Eyes. I love the glow and the framing of the shot. The droplets of water from her dress going into the ocean are perfect.

Masha Sardari

9. What are some of your favourate things :)?

The scent of old books, thrift stores, cameras, my corgi, Asian food, abandoned places, wine. (Really…this list could go on and on.)

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10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

I like to pay attention of lighting and framing. I can’t always have control of the lighting, but when possible, I do my best to not take a photo in direct light. Take a moment to breathe. If you don’t do that, I feel like a photograph or any for of art will be rushed.

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11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

It’s becoming that it seems. Really it’s just showing where I am day to day throughout my 365. If I could take the time and the expense on gas to drive up the mountains or around to other locations further from me, like the beach I would. I just can’t afford the expense to do so at the time.

Day onehundredandsixtyone

12. What do you do when you feel like giving it all up?

I call someone and we go out and take a photo. :)

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13. Who's 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

Currently enjoying David Talley’s, but Rosie Hardy and Masha Sardari who have already completed theirs are always fun to look back on.

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14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Oh my…this list could literally be the length of a novel. No order to anything, and seriously, this is just a bit of this list.

MOVIES: Darjeeling Limited, Blade Runner, The Life Aquatic, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Brick, 3:10 to Yuma, The 5^th Element, American Psycho, City of Lost Children, Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away

BOOKS: Alice in Wonderland, The Last Unicorn, Lord of the Rings, Never Let Me Go, Game of Thrones, Of Mice and Men, East of Eden, Looking Glass Wars

MUSIC: Mumford and Sons, Coconut Records, Laura Marling, The Decemberists, mewithoutyou, Arcade Fire, Mogwai, Explosions in the Sky, my dad vs yours, Fleet Foxes, The Kinks, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Matthew and the Atlas, MGMT, Noah and the Whale, Pg. Lost, Regina Spector, She and Him, Snow Patrol, The Smiths, Sufjan Stevens, Wolfmother

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15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography and 365?

Getting past Day 200 was fun. Reaching that milestone meant a lot.

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16. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

At first I thought it might be, but it hasn’t been hard at all. Everyone expresses themselves in their work. Even if you took your idea from the inspiration of something else, you always put yourself into it somehow. Unless you’re deliberately trying to recreate someone else’s work…but even then you don’t have the same location, and you’ll have different models, etc. (I don’t condone such behavior by the way.) I’ve just been going day to day with what life brings me, so inspiration hasn’t been hard to find at all.

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17. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

Day 197- I Gave You All. It was handheld at night with my Canon 50mm 1.8 lens. I used my car lights to illuminate the graveyard and had Chris sit very still while I held my breath and took the photo on high continuous. Out of the five photos taken, that was the one that turned out. I took a few others at different angles also.

Day onehundredandninetyseven

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

I do. Color correction, and if it’s levitation then the obvious blending of various images together. If it’s film though, I do little to no editing to it. I like to use a film camera every now and again to mix things up a bit.

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19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I’ve been told that I do, so I guess so? I’m always terrible at answering these types of questions, especially right now; I think it’s hard to tell since I don’t have much of a pattern or a theme that I’m sticking to currently. I have a series of mythology, legends, and fairytales planned out however; so perhaps in the near future my work will reflect more of a style through that.

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20. What is your favourate time of year to take photos?

My favorite season is fall, and I haven’t taken photos in my 365 for that yet, so I really look forward to layers of clothing and the changing of the colors in the leaves.

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21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Female model, I would choose Audrey Hepburn. I love her. Male model, I would choose Cillian Murphy, or any member of Mumford and Sons. (I like guys with strong bone structure.)

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22. Give us the skinny; what's the next big project you've got coming up?

Well, I already mentioned it above. I’m doing a legends/myths/fairytales series. During my 365 the month of October will be a bit creepier and darker if all goes according to plan, so keep a look out for that.

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23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

I’ve been told Anne Hathaway before, so I’ll go with her.

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24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

A veterinarian, but I cannot stand blood, nor do I like it when animals are in pain.

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Thank you so much Rachel, please see more of her work here

xx

Feature Interview - 365 Days: Star of the Sea

2011-08-19T19:19:00.001+01:00

Continuation of the 365 feature, next up the lovely Star of the Sea :)

Day ninteen

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I'm from Houston, Texas and I've lived there my whole life. I've just moved to college and it's really great! I can't wait to really start my whole new life here in Georgetown. For the photography thing, my brother is a photographer and so are some of my other relatives, so I've always been around it. I took a photo I class my freshman year in high school and I worked with film a lot, but my passion really didn't start until I got my own camera. After that, inspiration and ideas exploded :)

Day thirtyone

2. What made you decide to start a 365?

Well I always thought it would push me to take a picture every single day and inspire me to do better and more than I have already. Which it did!

Day fourtythree

3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

Well I usually get an idea somehow or I just start shooting with some amazing light and then after that things start rolling and the inspiration flows out of me. I don't do a lot of editing really, just some touch ups and a slight edit to the curves and contrast are about it. I don't like changing the natural look too much.

Day fiftysix

4. What are your tools of the trade?

Well I shoot with a Canon EOS XTi with a 50mm f1.4 and it's the best! I edit with Adobe Lightroom. I also use a tripod and a remote for most of my pictures.

Day sixtythree

5. Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365's?

I think a lot of people see the attraction by looking at their inspirational photographers do a 365 and then follow suit. It's easy to see from most people's streams that have done a 365 that by taking a picture every single day it pushes all of your limits and ultimately makes you a better photographer.

Day eightynine

6. What is your least favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Hmm, that's a hard question:

Day six

This one because it was in the early stages of the project and I feel like it's not really who I am as a photographer. It has too much editing and whatnot, and it's not my style anymore.

7. What is your favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

This is one of my favorites:

Day ninetytwo

I was feeling so great that day and I know it's not spectacular, but it reminds me of a really happy time in my life.

8. What is your favourite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

Oh god, I'd have to say anything that Alexis Mire posts: Link

She's my favorite, really.

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9. What are some of your favourate things :)?

Huh favorite things... movies, video games, hanging with friends (of course), staying up late, Smart Water, green tea, and snuggling.

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10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Basically, putting yourself entirely into that photograph. It doesn't matter if the world thinks it is good or bad, as long as you know that it represents you well as who you are then it's beautiful.

Day onehundredandseventynine

11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Yes. Most definitely. I love nature and taking pictures outside. I have a lot of trouble in the summer getting motivation since it's so hot here, but I try my best! And my room, it just has to be a relaxed area with no one around where you can pour yourself into your photography.

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12. Do you feel guilty for not finishing yours?

Sort of. Not really though. That time in my life was hard. I had a lot of other things going on and the 365 became the lowest on my priority list, so I don't really feel bad for setting it aside.

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13. Who's 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

Again, Alexis Mire.

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14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Films: anything with Keira Knightly, Pride and Prejudice, Fight Club, anything Alfred Hitchcock, yeah :) Books: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, Fight Club, Rant, Pride and Prejudice. Musicians: Cage the Elephant, Manchester Orchestra, Coldplay, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and lots of others.

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15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

Making it to front page on Explore more than twice :) it was a great achievement.

Day twohundredandfourtytwo

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Sometimes you can't keep everything original. It's hard, but when you do, it's like the world is perfect, really it is. When you get that one shot that makes all of the hassle worth it, it's liberating. And it is hard to stay original, and it's easy to borrow ideas, but change them up to make them your own.

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17. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

To get that lighting right, good god, it took me forever.

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

No, not at all, I'm a naturalist :)

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19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

Yeah, I guess, some people say I do, but there are always inspirations from people that show through my work.

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20. What is your favourate time of year to take photos?

Winter and Spring, they are so great for weather and look.

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21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Keira Knightly, she is my hero, seriously, it's an obsession

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22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I have NO idea. I'm in college now so maybe something new ;)

Day twohundredandseventynine

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

I think you will see a pattern here... Keira Knightly :)

Day twohundredandninetytwo

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

A film director, I really wanted to be one, but eh, it's changed.

Day threehundredandten

Thank you so much :) Check out more of her work here

Feature Interview - 365 Days: Brian Oldham

2011-07-10T12:28:00.001+01:00

My next interview is with the amazing Brian Oldham who is deep in the thick of his 365 Project.

Day ten

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I was born and raised in Southern California, just outside of Los Angeles. I've always enjoyed creating art, but had never really thought about taking pictures until November of 2010 when I decided I wanted to try out photography!

Day twelve

2. What made you decide to start a 365?

I began my 365 project after I came across a link on facebook to Rosie Hardy's photostream; her pictures made me see photography as an art for the first time. I wondered if it was something I might like, and after looking through her and Alex Stoddards' 365's for days, I saw the improvements they made in their pictures as their projects progressed. I realized how good they had gotten after such a short time, and decided that I would start my own 365 in hopes of learning about photography and building up my skill as I went along.

Day seventeen

3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

I have a hard time trying to come up with ideas for a picture if I actively think about it, so when I'm hit with random inspiration I'm always sure to write down any ideas I get. When I find time to take the actual picture, I go out in my car full of props and awkwardly shoot myself in weird poses. A lot of the time I need someone to come with me to press the shutter, because it's all too often that I'm half-buried or covered in glue. After I'm satisfied with the original shot, I always make sure to take a background shot and any other pictures of the location I might need to do a square expansion. Then, I spend a painful 3-5 hours editing the picture.

Day twentyone

4. What are your tools of the trade?

Well, my camera is recently deceased, but most of my pictures were shot with a Rebel T1i and a 50mm 1.4

Day twentythree

5. Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365's?

I think that a lot of people see the challenges self-portraiture presents, and recognize the 365 as a pretty direct way to improve in their photography.

Day twentyeight

6. What is your least favorite 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

It's a picture that I've since deleted from flickr, but it was one of myself jumping in the air above a bunch of trees. It was so bad.

Day thirtyone

7. What is your favorite 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Probably this one:

I'm not really even sure why I like it, but I was really happy with how it came out.

I actually enjoyed having all of the little stars on my face too... I even kept them glued on my face for like an hour. haha.

Day thirtyfive

8. What is your favorite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

Agh, this is so hard!!! I really don't know, probably something of Alex Stoddard's or Lissy Elle's

Day fourtyone

9. What are some of your favorite things :)?

I could not live without my kindle, my pet dog, and apple juice (only the "Langers" brand).

Day fourtythree

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Never give up! I absolutely hated my photo, "a diffusion of being", until I finished editing it. I almost gave up mid-shoot from being so uncomfortable with the petals glued all over my body, but even if you're not happy with how a picture comes out, just keep trying and you'll eventually get the outcome you're looking for.

Day seventyfour

11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

I don't really think I have much of a style, but I really enjoy shooting in nature and trying to incorporate it into my pictures.

Day fourtyseven

12. What do you do when you feel like giving it all up?

Give myself a break. I don't want to push myself too far to the point where I don't even enjoy taking pictures anymore, so if I ever feel overwhelmed or like giving up my project, I take a day off when necessary.

Day fourtyfour

13. Who's 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

Probably Alex Stoddard's or Lissy Elle's

Day fiftytwo

14. What are some of your favorite films, books and musicians?

I really like the book "The Perks of Being Wallflower" and one of my favorite bands has always been The Postal Service.

Day fiftyfive

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography and 365?

I haven't achieved much with it, but I am so thankful for the features I've had and all of the crazy support I've gotten from the Flickr community.

Day fiftyeight

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Definitely, I really struggle with being original. I try not to look at other peoples' pictures for too long or I start to think of picture ideas just like theirs, so I try keep my obsessive viewings to a minimum.

Day sixty

17. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

This one for sure! I was almost swept off the top of the waterfall to my death too many times to count.

Day seventyfive

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

The only time I really change anything is if it's a manipulated image, and even then I only take parts of other pictures from that days shoot (like butterflies I was holding up or flower petals I threw in the wind). I usually just focus on the curves/saturation/contrast etc.

Day sixtyfour

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

Nope. I feel like my pictures are all over the place and totally lack any similarity... oh well, maybe someday.

Day sixtyseven

20. What is your favorite time of year to take photos?

Even though everyone else hates it, I loved taking pictures in the winter months. Mind you, everyone else is probably freezing... but where I live, it's a jolly temperature and 90% of the time I have cloud cover!

Day sixtyeight

21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Zoe Deschanel. I just love her.

Day seventytwo

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I'm just trying to properly finish my 365, hah, I wish I had the time to plan other projects!

Day seventythree

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

I like Joseph Gordon-Levitt, even though he doesn't resemble or act like me at all.

Day seventysix

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

When I was about 5 I really wanted to be a gardener. I always thought that they had the coolest job.

Day seventyseven

Questions asked by followers:

1. At what point in the project did taking a daily photograph become effortless?

I still find it excruciating! I'm not sure that "effortless" will ever be a part of my vocabulary as far as my 365 goes.

2. Has your own creativity improved by undertaking the project?

It's become a lot easier to throw together concepts at the last minute, and looking back on earlier images I feel like my ideas have become more sophisticated.

3. What do you do on days in which you suffer from creative blocks and lack of inspiration?

Usually I'll sit in my room and be upset with myself until I can pull myself together enough to go look for an inspiring prop.

4. If you could be any type of horse, what horse would you be?

This one: http://www.burleson-arabians.com/images/horses/twinkie10222.jpg

5. How did the chicken cross the road?

It did not.

6. Would you prefer to be an ewok or a gun gun?

Ewok, 100%.

Day seventyeight

YAY!! Thank you Brian!!!

Brian is still in the early stages of is 365 so everyone who reads this can now follow his journey, don't say I never give you anything :)

See more of Brian's work on his Flickr
xx

Helping with The Rosie Hardy Shoot Out Experience

2011-05-20T18:08:00.003+01:00

I haven't done a blog post that isn't an interview in sooooo long, I think I get so excited about my interviews I find the work that I do isn't as important to write about. Well I do now!!

For the last few months i have been helping out on Rosie Hardy's Shoot Outs, this came about after Rose and i collaborated on a number of things, weddings, events and personal shoots. Basically after we collaborated on each of these shoots we would end up chatting for way too long and she mentioned she was going to start these Shoot Outs and asked if i could help out. Well of course i said yes!! So we began planning, the first took place at Southend on Sea, a wonderful location at the beach.

Rosie stayed with me the night before so we ended up once again chatting for hours, talking photography and music and hanging out with my brother and Luke. Luke even managed to scare the crap out of me...

Rosie looks as composed as ever!

So we headed off the next day bright and early loaded with props that were practically hanging out of Rosie's car window, and arrived at Southend ready to gather the ready and willing photographers to start a day of shooting!

Here are some behind the scenes shots of the day...

At the beggining of the day, all of us getting to know each other having milkshakes :)

Rosie playing with blossom.

Brandon with blossom.

Michael's little smile, awww!

Props.

Perving on a couple at the beach, ha!

Chelc and Rosie's Teddy :)

Chelc and her puuurty smile :)

Polaroid exposing...

The whole gang!! :)

And some of my shots from the day...

So the second Shoot Out was a month later and was to take place in a beautiful bluebell wood and Rape field. Once again Rosie came to stay with me the night before the big day, it was so much fun, and the more time I spend with Rosie the more we get to know each other and the more I concider her one of my closest friends. I really feel like we are building a strong friendship as well as working relationship.

So yeah, the day was amazing, the weather was hit and miss, as most will know bright sun actually is a very tricky light to shoot in, so there was alot of that, but we were shooting in a number of different places such as Bluebell woods, rape fields and abandoned trailer (which, for the people that follow my work, will have seen before) so we all were able to get some great shots. It's always quite nice to get a mix of cloud and sun though, it allows everyone to be able to play around with whats available.

So for ages i wanted to try some photos with vintage lingerie and flowers, well I brought my lingerie along and what do you know, the rape field was perfect to shoot in!!

Here are some behind the scenes shots of Shoot Out number 2

The bluebell woods.

My lovely friend Luke who is also a fab photographer, check is work out HERE

My bro helping me out by taking some polaroids :)

The wind was not warm that day, bless Harper for braving it.

Harper liked that dry paint way more than is normal!

I even got her to growl! :)

Harper giving me a kiss....

...after Harper kissed me, humph! lol.

The whole gang! :)

My awesome brother Jamie also dropped by to help towards the end of the day and got some brilliant behind the scenes shots on his IPhone :) Check em out man!!

Lots of dry paint slinging :)

Personal favourite :)

My lovely brother Jamie is a musician, and an awesome one, you should check him and his band The Last Dinosaur out!! However not only is he a musician he is also awesome at photographer, you should check out his work HERE

And some of my final shots..

I feel so fortunate to be able to help Rosie out on her Shoot Outs, and we are already planning number 3!! So don't forget to message me or her if you'd like to sign up for the next one :)

xx

Feature Interview - 365 Days: Sarah Ann Loreth

2011-05-11T14:41:00.001+01:00

Day One

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I am a 24 year old from New Hampshire, US and I am still afraid of the dark. I started photography a year ago and it has absolutely been the best and most challenging year of my life. I spend a lot of time in the woods and my favorite hobby is climbing things.

Day twentyone

2. What made you decide to start a 365?

I guess I chose a 365 because I saw so much potential for growth from previous 365ers and I hoped I'd be able to grow in the same way. I just didn't realize how big of a commitment it would be. And how much I'd really learn by practicing everyday.

Day thirty

3. What is your process when taking your 365 from getting ideas to editing?

When I have an inkling of an idea I write it down immediately in my notebook because I tend to forget. My best ideas come to me in that in between stage of sleep and awake where I let my mind wander.

From shooting and editing the whole process could take anywhere from four hours to eight, depending on how extravagant the concept. Makes for a long day some days.

Day thirtytwo

4. What are your tools of the trade?

I use a Canon 5d Mark ii with a 50mm 1.2.

Day fourty

5.Why do you think people are drawn to starting and following 365's?

I think the appeal of the 365 is the structure to practice every day and the potential for growth. I feel most productive on a deadline, being an avid procrastinator I like the rules. It's also nice to have feedback and critique on a daily basis. It helps me grow. I think people are so drawn to following them because of the level of difficulty of the project. It's not something everyone can do, so it's almost admirable. And it's great to see new work from your favorite artists on a daily basis.

Day fourtyfive

6. What is your least favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

My least favorite shot would be day 55, which is now private on my stream. It was me, hanging from wall in some very odd Spiderman kind of way. It just wasn't my best and it never really felt like me. I have a lot of shots I dislike, for whatever reason. That's the downfall of a 365. You aren't going to produce your best work every day. It's impossible. But it's best to learn from your mistakes.

Day fourtysix

7.What is your favourate 365 shot you've taken so far and why?

Absolutely day 127. I love a good fog in photos and it took a lot to accomplish that particular one. It was cold, rainy, and the fence was slippery. I keep falling off the top of the darn thing.

Day one hundred and twentyseven

8. What is your favourite 365 shot taken by another photographer?

I am in love with her childlike spirit and ability to produce poignant thought provoking images. And that shot is just so cool.

Day two hundred and eightythree by Lissy Elle

9. What are some of your favourate things :)?

I try to live simply and enjoy the little things. I like daffodils, spaghetti O's with hotdogs, sleeping, reading, hugs, kisses, snuggling. I like going for walks and toe socks.

Day fourtynine

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

I would say, not be afraid to try new things. Experiment and you may be pleasantly surprised by what you find. Don't be afraid to take life threatening risks and convey a story.

Day fiftysix

11. Your 365 seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

It's more of a convenience things, I suppose. However, I do love the idea of the natural. It's so comforting to me to be surrounded by nature. It feels like home to me.

Day sixtytwo

12. What do you do when you feel like giving it all up?

Well, mostly I sulk for a while, then question every thing I ever produced. Then I take a break. The project does get overwhelming and it does so often. It's impossible to be brilliant every day. And it does get exhausting because I do have a full time job and life. I find myself editing late into the night most nights, just to get it done. I guess it's best to keep shooting. This too shall pass.

Day seventytwo

13. Who's 365 has been the most inspiring to you?

I have two actually. Alex Stoddard and Lissy Elle. Alex has the ability to left my mind blown with his drive and originality. You can really tell her puts every bit of himself into his photos. It's admirable. And Lissy, I'm in love with her view on life and spirit. She is pure magic.

Day seventythree

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

When I am lacking inspiration I turn to Anne Sexton and E.E. Cummings. They bring me through tough periods. As for movies I am so in love with The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter series.

I listen to Adele, Abba, and Lady Gaga most often when editing :)

Day ninetyeight

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography and 365?

I'm gotten some features and that has been so amazing. It warms my heart to know that people have seen my work and like it enough to show the rest of the world. I am thankful for every view, comment, kind word, and critique that people have taken the time to write. But my biggest achievement I think was signing on with a stock agency. It's comforting I guess to think perhaps one day I can get rid of my full time job and focus on photography. I think I'm getting there.

Day one hundred and four

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original within the 365 project? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

It's incredibly hard. Doing a 365, it's practically impossible to have a new idea every day. You will often find yourself playing off ideas you've already created of stick to those old safe photography cliches. I think it's best to put a twist on things, make an idea your own and absolutely try new things.

Day one hundred and thirteen

17. Which 365 shot was the most difficult to capture?

Day 108. That was hands down the most difficult. I was horrified to make the handmade torch with a light and bug spray. The whole time I kept saying to myself, "please don't explode in my face. Please don't explode in my face."

Day one hundred and eight

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

Well, I'm under the premise of creating whatever I can outside of Photoshop I will because I feel it just looks more natural. With that being said, it really depends on the concept. But most pictures I simply composite to add space and change up the colors.

Day one hundred and twentytwo

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I feel like perhaps I am on my way to developing my own style. I guess a style is not something you find. It's something you develop through trial and error and finding what works for you. I guess what I'm getting at is, I wish I had a more distinct style. But I would hate to feel typecast into it. I want my photos to feel surreal without over processing and a ton of Photoshop work. I want there to be subtle magic.

Day one hundred and twentythree

20. What is your favourate time of year to take photos?

Summer I think is pretty nice. I have a hard time staying motivated in the cold New England winters, regardless of how beautiful the snow is. And the ticks come out in full force in the Spring. The full body checks get hold. I'd say, I find Summer most pleasant.

Day one hundred and twentynine

21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

I would love to photograph Anne Sexton. She was so insane and tortured and charismatic. I feel like her eyes would tell a story. And probably Lady Gaga because she is just so interesting.

Day one hundred and thirty

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

Mostly, I'm trying my darnedest not to epic fail my 365 :)

Day one hundred and thirtytwo

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

I would love to be played by Rachel Weisz, Meryl Streep, or Jodi Foster. I love their ability to portray a quiet strength and resolve.

Day one hundred and fourtyseven

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I always wanted to be an artist. I love to create. I toyed with the idea of being a writer but of my life I wanted to be a librarian.

Day one hundred and sixytwo

Thank you so much Sarah :)

With two hundred and sixtytwo days left, i think we have a huge amount to look forward to :)

Please step on over to Sarah's Flickr for more of her amazing work and to follow her journey!
xx

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Teresa Queirós

2011-04-15T22:15:00.002+01:00

My next interview is with my sister from another mister Teresa, when i interviewed her I found her passions are so similar to mine, I feel like i know her even though i've never met her!! I hope you enjoy her work and her spirit as much as I do :)

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I'm from Portugal. I started photographing for fun, mostly. I would take pictures of a friend, she would take pictures of me - nothing serious. I only started taking it more seriously a couple of years ago. It's been a fun journey.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

Other photographers, of course. I can't say that there's one in specific, but I think that when you keep browsing through others people's work you'll get influenced by the ones you like the most. It's like you're taking bits, here and there, the bits you like, and eventually it will show in your own work.

3. What is your favourite style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

Portraits! I like the middle term between emotion and fashion - when you have the beauty of a fashion portrait implied in an emotional one.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

It depends, really. For instance, sometimes I see a really beautiful place and I have the whole visual - I know which model I want, the outfit, the story behind it, everything. Other times you just wing it, you're not sure of what you want but you make it happen,. Sometimes the results are even better than you expect. It's always worth it.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I use a Canon 400D and I've recently bought a 50mm 1.8 lens to go with it (what a difference!), but mostly I use my Zenit-11.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I don't know. I guess I'd like to be paid for it ahaha maybe doing editorials or shooting for some brand or designer.

All the while being able to keep doing my personal work and experimenting. Yes, that would be nice. :)

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography?

Maybe because it allows you to create such beautiful and powerful images. It's like a parallel world where you can see everything picture perfect - pretty girls, pretty clothes, pretty make-up, pretty sets...

8. What draws you to a particular model? What do you look for in a model?

I usually don't go for the average pretty girl. I like it when they have something unique to them, weird, even. It's not very easy to find these girls though. Also,they should be able to convey their emotions easily, so that when I'm directing them, I can get exactly what I want. That's why I like to work with actresses. There are exceptions, though, for instance: I have this model who always seems to carry this heavy look in her eyes, and I love that. It's like she's always telling her story, her past, it's very genuine and it comes through in the picture - and that's priceless.

9. What are some of your favourate things :)?

I have so many favorite things! ahaha This is going to be insane... ok so... I love lace and sheer fabric (when light shines through it), I love tea, I love flowers (baby breaths and dandelions, specially), I love vintage (seriously, they just did things better in the old days), I love kaleidoscopes, I love candy (any type, really), I love sweet scents and children perfume, I love fruit, I love nights in watching movies, I love carrousels, I love puzzles and enigmas (in people as well, unfortunately), I love music, I love theater (and acting), I love books, I love flower patterns and pastel colors, I love to walk during twilight (it's just the best time of day to do it, really, it's magical), I love long conversations... I love the little things in life.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Ah! That I don't know. Maybe it would have to do with the colors, cause that's usually what catches my eye the most. I have no idea! ahaha Sorry.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

I love to shoot on location, I love pretty places in the middle of the nature. I don't know if it's a big part of my style or not, because that may change with time, but, yes, I do love nature and I love shooting surrounded by it.

12. What is your favourite photo taken by another photographer? (Link and describe why)

There are so many. Seriously! It would be impossible to choose!

13. What is your favourite photo you have taken? (Link and describe why)

I don't know that either, it keeps changing. I guess your latest work is usually what you like the most, and that's only natural since you keep getting better.

However, I remember I was really pleased with this picture when I saw it -

I couldn't believe how pretty it turned out, with all of the flares and the bokeh (no photoshop).

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Musicians: Patrick Watson, Andrew Bird, Anja Garbarek, Bon Iver, Lhasa de Sela, Nina Kinert, Panda Bear, Psapp, Inara George, Radical Face, The Antlers, Tom Waits (and many others).

Movies: "Lars and the Real Girl", "Never let me Go", "Water", "Down by Law", "Trust", "Blue Valentine", "Me Without You", "Wings of Desire", "Paris, Texas", "Trust" and, because they have absolutely stunning photography, "Valerie and her Week of Wonders" and "Atonement".

Books: I can't really say I have many favorites. I have "The Stranger" by Albert Camus, on the top of the list. I also liked reading the complete plays of Sarah Kane, and "The Scent of your Breath" by Melissa P.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

My Margarita's series are going to be published as an editorial on an online magazine.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

I do think it is hard to be original, but it has never been my goal. I photograph because I love it, not to be the best or to be the most original, it's about the passion. Besides, everyone is unique in their own way, I think.

17. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Matt Hill! Because we are good friends and I think he is pretty awesome and really talented.

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

It depends. If I'm shooting film, I barely edit the pictures (for the most part, at least), but if I'm shooting digital I just have to. Digital pictures just seem so uninteresting with they're faithful colors and lack of texture. I tend to edit my digital pictures to make them look a bit like film - I try, at least. Film is so much better...

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

Hum, I don't think so. I think my style is similar to many photographers out there, but it's like I said... I'm not striving to be original, so... I'm ok with it.

20. Do you prefer studio or location?

Location.

21. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I don't have any big project when it comes to photography, unfortunatelly. I do have a new play coming up, though. I start rehearsing next monday, Does that count? :)

22. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Rachel Weisz, please! :)

23. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I wanted to be a singer, for a long time. It's funny really, how much we change. I've never dreamed of becoming an actress and that's what I'm doing right now. Life happens, I guess.

Thank you so much Teresa :)

Please see more of her fabulous work here

xxx

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Aaron Feaver

2011-04-08T18:57:00.001+01:00

New interview with Aaron Feaver from Los Angeles, yup, he's pretty friggin amazing!!!

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I've been into photography as a hobby for a few years, but only started taking it seriously about a year ago when I began taking photos of people.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

Dusdin Condren (http://dusdincondren.com/) was the photographer who first got me interested in shooting people, and his style is what's influenced me the most, I'd say.

3. What is your favourite style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I guess you'd say fashion photography is my favorite style, though there's that side of fashion photography that's more just model tests, and I like that too.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

Lately I've been collaborating with my girlfriend, who's a stylist and model. One of both of us will come up with the idea for a shoot, I'll work on storyboarding it or at least planning out some of the shots, and she'll work on styling it. We both look at a lot of photographs online, and save everything we like as a reference. We get clothes either new from shops, or lent to us from designers, or just at the thrift store or flea market. When we're ready we'll either get a model from an agency or my girlfriend will model for it herself, we get hair and makeup and do the shoot, usually on location somewhere. After the shoot I'll drop the film off at the lab, scan the negatives when they come back, and edit the scans in Photoshop.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

It depends on the look I'm going for, but I usually have a Pentax 67 for medium format stuff, and either a Canon A-1 or Nikon FM2 for 35mm, and a Polaroid 250 for instant stuff. But, like, I'm doing a beach shoot in a week or so and I'll be using a Nikon L35AW from the '80s for the underwater stuff. For films I really like Kodak Portra. Oh and I use a cheapish Canon digital SLR sometimes, too.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I'd love to be able to do photography full time.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography?

Pretty clothes, pretty people, fun concepts and styling. It's creative but accessible.

8. What draws you to a particular model? What do you look for in a model?

I like models who can show a lot of emotional range during a shoot, and also move around a lot.

9. Who are some other photographers you admire?

Paolo Roversi is my hero, plus Dusdin Condren, David Bellemere, way too many to list. I started a blog just to keep track of some of them (http://feaverishphotography.com/blog/).

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Gosh, it really depends on the photo. I'd pay attention to the light, try to make it hit the subject in an interesting way, and also make sure the background isn't too cluttered. Nothing you wouldn't read in an intro-to-photography book.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

I'm definitely inspired by new and interesting locations, so I suppose it is a big part of my style.

12. What is your favourite photo taken by another photographer? (Link and describe why)

I know I should have something more fashion-y, but honestly this photo by Corey Arnold is my favorite:
coreyfishes.com/#/human-animals/22

13. What is your favourite photo you have taken?

I tend to start disliking my photos immediately after they're taken, so it's really hard to answer this one, but I do like this photo of my girlfriend.

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

I'm really into all those things, so this is pretty much impossible to answer.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

It's only been in the last few months that I've started to get any real print work, so I guess my highest achievement so far is a couple of photos in Foam magazine.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

I do think it's hard, but I don't focus too much on being original.

17. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

How about Lou Noble? www.flickr.com/photos/louobedlam

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

Not too much, I don't think. I clean up dust, get the color how I want it, stuff like that. I'd do more but I'm pretty impatient and don't really like editing very much.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I don't think I'm doing anything that hasn't been done a million times before, but it's fun for me and I'm often happy with the results.

20. Do you prefer studio or location?

Location, definitely.

21. If you could photograph any person alive or dead who would it be and why?

Hmm either Penelope Cruz or David Lynch.

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I'm working on a surf shoot right now.

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Hah, um…probably Seth Rogen, unfortunately.

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

My dad was a pilot and I always wanted to be one too.

Thank you Aaron :)

See more here

xx

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Anna Morosini

2011-03-05T18:39:00.004Z

Continuing my feature series, may i introduce the beautiful Anna Morosini. Anna is a master of light and sentuality, she has a way of conveying a message in her photos that allows you to fall in love with every image.

Here is her passion in her words....

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I'm from Foligno, a small city in the middle of italy and i got into photography because of my father, who has my same passion and who always photographed my family and my life too.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

I don't know...I don't have a straight reference point in photography...i'm probably most influenced by paint artists, from Caravaggio to Hopper to Klimt. In photography my favourite is Sarah Moon, but I also really love Paolo Roversi and Francesca Woodman (and many others).

3. What is your favourate style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I really love people portraits. In all kind of photography...from fashion to documentary...cause i believe that in a photograph i can reveal the deep essence of people...without words.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

There is not only one...many times i simply find a great light in a room of my house (i'm really addicted to light) and so i "see" the picture before taking the photograph. Other times i get an idea before (maybe suggested by something, a story, a fact, a movie, a conversation...) and then i try to find the elements to create it (model, places, light, mood).

5. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I don't know...for now, photography is still a passion for me...and not a job. I probably hope to get better and better...and to make expositions all aroud the world, and maybe work with photographers that i love. I also love some kind of fashion photography (like Paolo Roversi's one), so i 'd also like to get into it.

6. If you could take photos of anyone, alive or dead, who would you shoot?

OOOH, lovely question :). I m really fascinated by humans...so it's really difficult to make a choise. From the most simple, i'll love to shoot Josh Beech, a new generation of english model, that i really like. And also, remaning in the model world, Natalia Vodianova.

7. On your Flickr it seems like you play a lot with light, is this natural light? Any cool tips on how to use natural light to make an amazing photo?

I'm lucky cause i live in a house with an amazing natural light...and i almost use only this kind of illumination...cause natural light is more simple and smooth for me to use.

8. What would be your fantasy location to shoot at?

I'll love to shoot in Versailles rooms and also in japan when gardens are full of cherry blossom trees :)

9. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

The most important thing to me is to let myself captured the picture, the same as i see it in real life. I always need an exchange.

10. Your photos seem to be mostly of women, why is it that you prefer to shoot women?

Maybe cause i'm a women. When i take a portrait of someone I always try to reveal what she/he has inside...so it's probably easier for me to do this with women. And also because i think that women's bodies are more intense, and delicate and intresting :)

11. What is you favourate photo taken by another photographer?

I absolutly don't know...i'm fascinated by so so many photographs, so is impossible to me to anwer this question. I can say which picture i've got on my wall, over my bed. It's this one:

It's by sarah moon. I think that it represents what photography means to me. An exit way to reality (or maybe the most superficial part of it) and at the same time, a prefect way to understand reality as it is.

12. What is your favourite photo you have taken?

I don't know...i've a sort of relationships with my pictures...kind of love/hate stories so it's hard for me to make a choise.

Probably one on my favourite ever and one that is really representative of my photography is this one:

I think the reason is because I took it in a really particular time, in a particular place (lofoten island during 25 days on the road shooting only with polaroid cameras)...there is a daily situation...a naked jung girl in her room, near a window..everything is so delicate and so intimate...but also there are some elements that makes me quite restless, uneasy...the light, the sea, the tones...that is a thing i love: that picture could have been me in every place and in every time.

13. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

I don't like to talk about my personal things...that's why i don't have facebook and stuff like that :) I love Fargo, Magnolia, Stand by me (as movies) ... my favourite book is "Oceano, mare" (Alessandro Baricco) but i read a lot so I can't make other choices. About music...oh my god...I love too much music...my boyfriend gave me a Nick Drake CD, for Valentine's day, "Pink Moon" that is lovely. I simply adore Radiohead, if I have to choose one.

14. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

It's hard to be original...but I don't try to be original...is the worst thing to do if you really want to be.

15. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Oh... James Whitmore definately...or Hannes Caspar (bluecut on fickr) on Alina Lebedeva.

16. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

Absolutly not..i really don't know how to use photoshop :) and i also love natural pictures and effects.

17. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I think yes. Also because there are many people that recognize my pictures, many without my name below.

18. Do you find there to be a lot of arrogance in the photography world?

It's a strange world...with internet everyone can share his own things and this is great...but at the same time this sharing creates a really big competition. I'm lucky because internet, and flickr made me known in a really small amount of time and so i went outide the web so soon, with publications and exhibitions.

19. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

To be rich and famous? :) ...no, i don't know..i'll let you know soon i promise! But now, i'm still working on fourlines project, that is having a real big success.

20. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Rechel Weitz because my boyfriend likes her :). No...I don't know..Kaya Scodelario.

21. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I'm still a kid!!

Personally, i get lost in Anna's work, when chosing photos to include in this feature i literally wanted to include everything in her steam!! Obviously i didn't....but i implore you to go have a look at her massive plethora of inspiring and soulful photographs.

Please look HERE.

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Ingrid Endel

2011-02-12T11:22:00.002Z

Next interview up is with the amazing and imaginative Ingrid, check it out...
1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I live in Brisbane, Australia. I developed a fascination for photography a couple of years ago during a difficult time. I had just started taking dance classes again when after a few weeks I re-dislocated my knee and was told to just stop altogether until I got a knee reconstruction. I was left feeling depressed and without a creative outlet until I found Flickr and Rosie Hardy’s work. I don’t even remember how I stumbled upon the place, but I was instantly intrigued and amazed; I was clueless as to how she made such beautiful images. So I decided to pick up photography as merely a hobby. Over one year later, and it has become so much more.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

I’ve had so many influences over the years so it’s difficult to pick just one. In terms of other photographers, it would have to be Brooke Shaden. Her work is otherworldy, dark and unlike anything I’ve seen before. Every pixel of her photos has a meaning and she has pushed the boundaries of the art form like no other. I’m also influenced by dance and movement in general – from the choreography to its execution. I particularly love Dana Metz and Dee Caspary’s work, and the way Ida Saki connects to music.

3. What is your favourite style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I like almost all styles of photography. At the moment my main interest lies with self-portraiture since it is what I do, and I love seeing how others use themselves to bring concepts alive. Usually anything with people will catch my eye as each photographer can capture a different quality in a person and in particular, documentary and street photography for they are raw and uncontrived. Landscapes are another favourite as I love nature and its untouched beauty.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

It varies. Sometimes I’d build a concept around a prop I found at home, or one that is either cheap or easily accessible. Other times I would scout for a location and go from there. Inspiration would come at the strangest times, and when it does, I can visualize the exact image I want to produce, and then progress onto making minor tweaks. I used to not sketch out ideas, but after forgetting quite a few, I’ve started to put them on paper. Then it’s onto 1-2 hours of shooting followed by a good couple of hours of editing, depending on the image.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I use a Canon 450D, 50mm f/1.8, natural lighting, Photoshop CS3, a step ladder, a freshly broken tripod and on rare occasions I’d whip out the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. Oh and most importantly, insect repellent! Everywhere I go is swarming with mosquitoes and all other kinds of insects; I don't know what I'd do without it.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I just hope to keep going with photography in general while exploring different styles, and gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. There are so many aspects that I am yet to delve into, and at times I feel like I am missing out on so much.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography?

It’s glamorous and idealistic, from the clothes to the models. I think we’re naturally drawn to pretty things, and sometimes, in our day-to-day lives, the idea of something that is close to perfection can be a welcomed escape.

8. What draws you to a particular model? What do you look for in a model?

Besides taking simple portraits of friends, I’ve never worked with a model for any of my conceptual photos. If I was to shoot with a model (and I hope to in the future), I would look for one who has a solid dance background and can therefore still manipulate their body. They would also have to be someone that is easy to work with.

9. Who are some other photographers you admire?

In no particular order: Kirsty Mitchell, Leah Johnston, Rosie Hardy, Helen Warner (airgarten) , Brooke Shaden, Rodney Smith, Sally Mann, Benoit Paille, L.J., and so many more.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Make sure you have a solid concept or meaning behind your photo before you set out to shoot. Be prepared to explain its meaning to strangers and do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Very much so. I’m intrigued by the relationship humans have with nature, from the basic reliance and the struggle to the similarities between the life cycles. There’s that, and the fact that I do not have access to indoor spaces that are large enough with adequate lighting.

12. What is your favourite photo taken by another photographer?

To me, the photo represents yin and yang, and I often find myself revisiting it. Put simply, it has everything I look for in a photo.

13. What is your favourite photo you have taken?

A difficult question, but right now it would have to be this one. Looking back, I’d say it was my ‘breakthrough’ towards producing the kinds of photos I am at the moment.

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Films: Memoirs of a Geisha, The Shawshank Redemption, Fight Club, The Freedom Writers, the LOTR trilogy, Band of Brothers..

Books: the Harry Potter series, Wild Swans, Cat’s Cradle, Never Let Me Go, Fight Club…

Musicians, James Vincent McMorrow, Ray LaMontagne, Cat Power, Michael Jackson, Adele, Band of Horses, Corinne Bailey Rae, Bon Iver, Lykke Li…

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

When people tell me that I have inspired them in some way; it’s one of the greatest compliments to receive (IMO).

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

It’s downright impossible to be 100% original with anything these days. But in saying that, we take aspects from millions of sources; everything we are exposed to gets ingrained and processed in our brains, and somehow, all those snippets of information are rearranged to form into something ‘new’. I just do what feels right and I think the combination of self-portraiture, dance and nature is somewhat unique. I’m a visual/kinesthetic person, so I see everything in moving images. Sometimes I feel my head getting ‘clogged’ with these so I just try to get them out whenever I have the opportunity. I try not to deliberately base my photos on others, but rather, wait for the images to come to me.

17. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Helen Warner. Her photos are fantasies with a dark twist, and just downright magical.

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

A lot of the time, yes.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I feel like I might be getting there, now that I’m applying dance to self-portraits. Then again, I’m still in the exploration phase so I’m not overly concerned about attaining a unique style. That’s usually the last thing on my mind.

20. Do you prefer studio or location?

I can’t pick as I have not used a studio before. However, I can see the pros and cons of both. Right now, I much prefer outdoor locations.

21. Tell us about the 52 week project?

It’s similar to the 365 project, but more achievable in the sense that it is only one photo a week for a year.

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I have plans on creating a short film that will basically bring to life one of my future photos. It will be a combination of dance, nature and fantasy, and depict a struggle. It's so vivid in my mind so it's now just a matter of saving up money to hire the equipment and finding the time to do it.

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Ummm, Ellen Page?

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I’ve always wanted to be a ballerina but as I grew older I realised I did not have the correct body type. From there I would go through phases: one day I wanted to be a hair stylist (when I figured out how to do my own hair), another it would be a teacher, and at the peak of her career I wanted to be a performer like Britney Spears (hahaha). There are more and honestly, far too many to list. I was a dreamer, and still am.I’ve had so many influences over the years so it’s difficult to pick just one. In terms of other photographers, it would have to be Brooke Shaden. Her work is otherworldy, dark and unlike anything I’ve seen before. Every pixel of her photos has a meaning and she has pushed the boundaries of the art form like no other. I’m also influenced by dance and movement in general – from the choreography to its execution. I particularly love Dana Metz and Dee Caspary’s work, and the way Ida Saki connects to music.

Thank you Ingrid :)

See more of Ingrid's work here

xx

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Angelina Belle Bergenwall

2011-02-05T12:25:00.001Z

My second interview is with the amazing Angelina who experiments with light and colour to create the most beautiful and interesting pictures, so have a read...

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I'm from Scandinavia, or well, a town north of Stockholm called Uppsala. I got into photography when my parents bought a digital camera for the first time, originally, it was mostly for my mum. But as soon as I got it into my hands... well let's just say she didn't get to use that camera herself so much.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

The people I work with. Definitely. If you have a great team you can turn the lousiest of situations photography-wise to a splendid shoot.

3. What is your favourite style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

Fashion. It's creatives making magic happen. Not just photographers but also designers, make-up artists and stylists. It's all art you know. And it's freaking brilliant.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

First, the idea. I usually draw it up for myself so I can get a more clear idea of how I want to shoot it. Then I think of models that I would like to use, and then the rest of the team. If everything goes well and I find the right people, the right location and the right light I usually start editing the photos right away as soon as I arrive back home.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

My fantastic Canon 5D mark II, along with four lenses: Sigma AF 28/1,8, Canon EF 50/1,4, Canon EF 85/1,8 and Canon 135/2 L. I edit my photos with Lightroom 2 and Photoshop CS4 on an iMac.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

Vogue. Or well, that's not my goal right now. But would be real nice.

What I truly wanna do is for Fashion Photography to be my full-time job

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography?

It's simple. It's pretty.

8. What draws you to a particular model? What do you look for in a model?

Originality, the way the model moves, the facial expression and personality. The eyes and eyebrows draw me in as well, like with Bambi Northwood-Blyth. She's got the most amazing eyes and eyebrows.

9. Who are some other photographers you admire?

Nick Knight, Tim Walker and Paolo Roversi are magic.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Just keep shooting, and if you try hard enough: one day you'll get one.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Yes! The location is essential and I think it's a shame not to use it to the fullest.

12. What is your favourite photo taken by another photographer? (Link and describe why)

Oh, you want me to pick one? That's nearly impossible. Can I pick two?

www.gainsburyandwhiting.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/nickknight_numero01.jpg

This is taken by Nick Knight for Numero 2004. When I first saw this photo I gasped. It really looks like the models are thrown up in the air. I don't know how he managed to shoot something like this. But it sure is dynamic. And it sure is stunning. And I am at awe.

semplicementeio.org/files/2010/12/tim-walker-stairway-lily-cole3.jpg

This is one of my favorite models: Lily Cole. It's taken in India and it's Tim Walker who pressed the shutter button. The colours, the pose and the way the dress goes all the way to the ground. Everything is perfect and so exotic. I adore it.

13. What is your favourite photo you have taken?

This is taken last summer and everything just falls into the right place in this photo. The light, the expression and I just love how everything fits. It's like she's been lying there enjoying the sun forever. And also, I'm a sucker for black and white and sepia.

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

My favorite movie is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. I get really inspired whenever I'm watching it. I also love Fight Club, Big Fish and of course La fabuleux destin d'Amelie Poulain. My absolute favorite book is The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami.

Some of the musicians I like are Arcade Fire, Editors, Cut Copy, the Knife, Radiohead and many more.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

Haha, I'm still in school so I haven't really achieved something yet, I think. But I did this editorial for a Swedish webzine called Modette and it turned out really great.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

I don't know. I just shoot whatever comes to my mind. Of course I get inspired when looking at other photographers work but there's a distinct difference between inspiration and plagiarism. One should always keep that in mind. Besides, if you're no good at being original, then there's really no point. What's the point of having a style if someone else also have it?

17. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Marie Hochhaus

She's so very very talented!

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

Sometimes I do. Sometimes not. I prefer to do as little as possible and get it right from the beginning rather than retouching my way to a good photo. The should't be okay and then good after post-processing. It should be great and then amazing. At the very least.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I sure hope so.

20. Do you prefer studio or location?

Location, definitely.

21. You seem to play alot with light, why is this?

Because light is photography. And if you want to do something unicque then it ought to be played with! Experimentation is essential for me!

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

Ohh, I'm shooting some super cool boys. That's all I can say for now.

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Angelina Jolie. Okay no seriously, I think Ellen Page. She's a bit quirky and I'm a bit quirky. It'd be great.

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

Haha I wanted to work at a zoo taking care of the wolves. I loved wolves. And I still do. Damn, I'd like to do a shoot with a model and some wolves. Would be a blast.

Thank you so much Angelina, you work is stunning and you seem like a pretty rad chick :)

See more of Angelina's work here

xx

Feature Interview - Imagination Land: Alex Stoddard

2011-01-01T17:19:00.002Z

Happy New Year eveyone!!! 2010 was one of the hardest and also most rewarding years i've had, i've learnt alot and gown alot and to have the amazing followers i have makes me feel very fortunate :)

This year i'm going to be shooting none stop (once the weather warms up a bit) and keeping up my blog (as always). I want to push myself this year, i really want to get my name out there, work with amazing photographers and really push myself into becoming a photographer full time, which is the dream :)

So i am starting the new year of with a BANG!!! My first interview of this year is with the seriously amazing 17 year old Alex Stoddard (of course i like him more than just his awesome name).

He has pushed boundries with his 365 which is still only on day 227, this means all those who don't currently follow his journey have 138 amazing photos to look forward to! So without further a do i introduce the amazing Alex Stoddard...

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I’m seventeen years old. I was born in Jacksonville, Florida and moved around a couple different places before my family settled in Georgia. So I’ve seen a fifteen-minute drive to the beach as well as a horse farm right outside my bedroom window. My family is pretty large, which I haven’t fully appreciated until recently. There’s something about growing up with a bunch of brothers and sisters that I think makes a person not only more appreciative but also instills within him a sense of warmth that might perhaps be wider than that of an only child, like you always have a place of comfort to go back to, more memories. I’ve always been artistic in one way or another, it seems. I would sketch and draw all sorts of things all day long… until I was old enough to realize that I was quite awful. From there, it was writing, and now it’s photography. It is as if the mode of creative communication isn’t what’s important, but rather what I have to express. So it could be photography, it could be sculpting, or painting myself purple and jumping out a window.. just that I’m able to express what I want to express. I’ve had a go at photography for about a year now, and it’s definitely the most substantial form of art that I’ve tried yet.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

I know I’m going to sound like a broken record with this, but, without question, Rosie Hardy. Happening upon her 365 project (I say “happening upon” as if it was this bizarre, one-in-a-million-chance kind of thing, which is ridiculous, because it’s basically impossible not to see an image of hers these days) was what really kicked me into action. I had never really paid much attention to photographs before seeing hers. They were always just something you’d take with your friends, with all of your faces smashed together, trying not to be the one whose face was half out of the frame. Her concepts and ideas and the beauty with which she created images struck me, and I wanted to try myself.

3. What is your favourate style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

For a long while, it was self-portraiture. I would be able to name off a million reasons why. However, I’ve recently just gotten so fed up with the limitations of using oneself as both the model and the photographer. I desperately want to shoot others. I want to move and duck and dash around to different angles and shoot from different places and make sure I am getting the perfect shot.

With a 365 project, though, that is almost impossible each and every day. Self-portraiture is both convenient and almost a place of comfort for me. It allows me to take my time and perfect the settings and scene without feeling like I should be rushing because there are others waiting on me. There is also the matter of eliminating the loss of concept in translation. I don’t have to explain my thoughts to a model. I already know exactly what I want to shoot, and whether it’s extremely simple or some complex idea that I myself don’t even fully comprehend, I make sure the photo captures it.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

I am so spontaneous. Mostly everything is done on a whim.. I’ll glimpse a certain prop or arrive at a certain location and jump into it, creating ideas as I go. It’s more of a curse than a blessing, I’ll tell you.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I use a plucky little Nikon D3000, for which I had saved up all of my money before I was even sure that I would enjoy photography. My uncle has helped me so much by supplying the rest: a 50mm f/1.8 lens and entirely new computer system with Photoshop CS5. It’s incredible the amount of support I receive from those around me, especially at the stages of photography just being a little hobby of mine.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I want to make a career of it. It took me a while to realize that photography was something worth devoting my life to. Before, I would always just tell people “I’m a sellout. I’ll end up at a job that I hate, because it pays well and is safe,” but photography is worth the risk. I want to make people stop and just appreciate the moment and the natural things in life. There is such a beauty in simplicity and roots.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to self portraits and what is your impression of the people that think it's just narcissistic?

It’s totally accessible. Anybody can take a photo of himself, but I think it is those that can learn to shape themselves around the photograph instead of shaping the photograph around themselves that are the ones who really get it. It’s understandable for some to see it as people who just love to look at themselves. I mean, you can’t hate them for thinking it, because it sort of is first impression what with things like Facebook around these days and people constantly taking snaps of themselves in mirrors and such.

8. On your Flickr it seems like you focus on one shot at a time, do you do series and not put them up or do you prefer to focus on one fashion shot at a time?

I generally will just focus on one shot. That’s really all you can do in a 365 project. I look at mine like I want to capture one specific image per day. I don’t want a million different photos of the same scene floating around. That one photo should mark that one day, and the next should be different, and that’s it.

9. Who are some other photographers you admire?

There are tons. Mike Bailey-Gates, Gregory Crewdson, Kirsty Mitchell, Brooke Shaden, Karrah Kobus Karrah is such a remarkable photographer and person. I recently got Tim Walker’s book as a Christmas gift, and it’s such a thrill to flip through and get a peek into his mind. He’s a genius.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking photo?

Get naked!!! Hahah, nah. Generally, I think when you step outside your comfort zone, you can usually find yourself with some pretty stellar results. It’s all a game of improvement, and if you stick with what you already know, you’ll never get any better. Whether it be swimming in some snake-infested creek, shedding all of your clothes, or shooting in a bare, white-washed room, new experiences usually expose the rawness of surprise and fear that cameras capture brilliantly.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Absolutely. Locations can instantly change the mood and entire idea of a photograph. I particularly like to show a human connection to nature and the primal, stripped-down way in which we all rely on and interact with it.

12. What is you favourate photo taken by another photographer? (Link and describe why)

That’s such a difficult question to answer! This was the first photo that I had ever ‘favorited’ on flickr, and I still love it as much.

www.flickr.com/photos/lenaah/3522656810/in/faves-alex-stoddard/

Eleanor’s work is just so whimsical and light.

13. What is your favourite photo you have taken? (Link and describe why)

It was the first and only photo that really ever turned out just like I had envisioned it.

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Across the Universe, The Mist, and Scary Movie 3. Such a variety, but I’m not picky. I like to give everything a chance. I loved The Lovely Bones, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and the His Dark Materials series. Regina Spektor will be my wife one day, Mumford and Sons will sing at our wedding, and we’ll fall asleep every night to Noah and the Whale.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

Besides garnering the support of thousands of people I don’t even know, I’d say maybe having Rosie Hardy contact me about doing a photo collaboration – Rosie Hardy – the one to whom I owe everything photographically. Also, Karrah Kobus and I are planning to teach an upcoming ‘workshop’-type event, and just knowing that there are people that want to learn from me I consider a pretty big achievement.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in photography? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Completely. So many people are spewing out so many of the same ideas and photos, with only the person in them being the differing factor. I don’t consider myself original or fresh whatsoever. Everything I have created is a result of everything I’ve ever seen or experienced, and I can’t tell you how many photos of mine have a tagline “Inspired by…” I don’t yet think I am at the point of being original, but reaching that point will be a big time for me.

17. Which photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Mike Bailey-Gates, because he’s a master of both self-portraiture and fashion photography, and I’ve been revisiting all of his photographs so much lately.

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in photoshop?

Unless the photo absolutely calls for manipulation, I usually just stick to editing colors and contrast and brightness and junk.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

Somewhat regretfully, yes. I know creating an original style is something that most artists deem most important, but I think of it kind of like a ball and chain. I want to be able to flit about, freely creating dramatically different photographs with every day. I want my ‘style’ to be my ability to create wondrously dissimilar photographs on every go.

20. What pushed you to start a 365?

I’ve never really done anything worthwhile in my life, and even if my 365 turns out being worthless in the end, at least I’ll be able to say that I accomplished –something-. I wanted to prove to myself that I can do something without quitting on it, and so here we are.

21. What gives you the strength to follow through and keep going when everything feels so hard?

The kind words I receive from everyone – both online and in real life. Knowing that complete strangers believe in me more than I believe in myself is both incredibly sad and inspiring, and I think I feed on emotion of any kind, and that’s what keeps me going.

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I have two different shoots with four girls coming up this week. One will be with horses, and the other will be with lots of white: fog, dresses, and lots and lots of pillow filling!

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Antoine Dodson. I don’t care that he’s not an actor. We’re the same person.

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I’m still a kid! But I’d usually spout out something about being an anesthesiologist or something pretentious like that.

Alex you not only have an awesome name but are an awesome and talented person!!!

Please EVERYONE comment and show Alex you're love!

If you'd like to see more of Alex's work go to his Flickr

xx

My life through my phone...

2010-12-09T21:04:00.003Z

It's been a while since i stopped by and said a proper hello so i thought i would write a little blog post on...well life at the moment.

This time last year i was an anxious wreck because of the roads, i was also in the beggining of my 365, a project you all probably know finished on day 70. This year, i'm taking self portraits cause i want to instead of have to, and because of that i'm enjoying it.

I cried this morning while driving to work, not because i was frightened of slipping on the ice, or because i was stressed at work...no i cried because i was listening to one of my favourate songs and looking ahead of me at the amazing sunrise and the phenominal city of Cambridge and i just felt happy...so i welled up and smiled :)

So in some ways in the last few weeks i've started a new kind of 365, taking a photo (almost) every day of whatever i want, i might be in it sometimes, but most of the time, i take photos of the sky, the fog, the sun, the fields, the frost, the snow and my life....i thought i would show you them (with some music to accompany the view).

My favourate song this week :)

This one....

...and this one were taken in the same place.

Me soaking in the fog...

When i drive and listen to this song i think of the dark, driving on the motorway in the dark and watching the lights pass me by. Listening to the dull murmer of the engine and the slight breeze from the open window where i flick the ash from my cigarette.

I get bored at work....

And so the snow starts, you don't even notice as you're asleep but down it comes and stays untill the first rain washes it away.

This one and...

...this one are in the same place.

Listen and watch, this song reminds me of Nirrimi's photography, the lyrics, the sound the atmosphere.

My town...

At the vintage fair with my best friend Jen, a few weeks ago we talked on the phone for 4 hours, it was like we were 14 again.

The snow remained in the nooks and crannies.

Picking out a wedding dress....or rather, hanging out with Matt in Oxfam.

This song just does something to me....listen to it LOUD!

I self portrait i did recently, it was actually my favourate from the series (though i think everyone elses least favourate)

Always looking back...

My favourate sunrise this year...this made my cry!

These are my days, the snapshots i get of life...on my phone.

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Teresa Queirós

2010-11-29T18:27:00.002Z

The last photo interview, and we end with a bang, the beautiful art of Teresa :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

So there it is, my last photo interview, i hope you've all enjoyed the feature and especially the last one by the beautiful Teresa, please comment and show her some major love.

For more of Teresa check out her Flickr and her Blog

Now i'm just trying to decide whether to do a photo interview myself....what you think?

Feature Photo Interview: Katherine Rodrigues

2010-11-18T22:57:00.000Z

Here is the work of the amazing 14 year old Katherine Rodrigues :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. HOW ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

See more of Katherine's beautiful work here on her Flickr

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Cesarr Terrio

2010-11-14T16:25:00.000Z

Ok you're in for a treat, here is the next photo interview with the amazing Cesarr...he is 16 years old from Montreal :)

1. SHOW US WHERE YOU SLEEP?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT'S YOUR EVERYDAY STYLE?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you Cesarr, truly stunning work :)

Definately check out more on his Flickr

Feature Photo Interview: Kameron Elizabth

2010-11-11T13:07:00.001Z

Brand new photo interview with Kameron, an 18 year old photographer from Southern California :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. HOW ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you Kameron :)

See more of Kameron's work here

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Mariah Izza

2010-11-09T14:41:00.000Z

Another photo interview with the amazing Mariah Izza, 16year old photographer from Jacksonville USA.

1. SHOW US WHERE YOU SLEEP?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. SHOW US SOME SKIN?

5. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT'S YOU EVERYDAY STYLE?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you Mariah :)

Check out more of Mariah's work on her Flickr

xxx

Feature Photo Interview: Kim Koster

2010-11-08T12:09:00.001Z

Following of the photo interview feature with Kim Koster. Kim is a 22 year old fashion and portrait photographer from the Netherlands :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10.WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you Kim :)

Please comment and show Kim some love!!

To see more of Kim's work check out her Flickr and her website

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Esben Bog-Jensen

2010-11-04T22:11:00.000Z

The beautiful light and stunning atmosphere Esben creates is addictive to look at, so i hope you enjoy the beautiful photo interview below :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

3. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

4. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

5. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

6. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you so much Esben, see more of his work check out his Flickr

Please comment and show Esben some love :)

Feature Photo Interview: Natalie Moonbeam

2010-11-03T12:34:00.001Z

This is Natalie, she is fifteen from the Canadian Praries and she is a gem!!!

When this girl picks up a film camera, magic happens...she is not afraid to play, experiment and express her imagination in beautiful ways :)

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. CAN YOU SHOW US SOME SKIN?

, originally uploaded by natalie moonbeam..

5. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

6. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

7. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

8. WHAT SCARES YOU?

9. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

10. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

Thank you Natalie :)

See more of Natalie on her Flickr

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Leah Bernhardt

2010-10-24T21:03:00.002+01:00

Soo....here is the second photo interview in the feature, the beautiful photography of Leah Bernhardt :)

1. How about showing us where you live?

2. What can’t you live without?

3. What do you see when you dream?

4. What is beauty to you?

5. What is music to you?

6.What about a colourful picture?

7.What confuses you?

8.Will you make something for me?

9. What's your everyday style?

10. Favorite part of your room?

Check out Leah's amazing work on her flickr and her awesome blog

Thank you so much Leah for taking part and if anyone out there would like to take part in this feature then send me an email and we can have a chat :)

xx

Feature Photo Interview: Tara Ghale

2010-10-17T20:40:00.002+01:00

So here it is, i've been going on about it for weeks now and i finally have the first of my new feature interviews....but these are no ordinary interviews, these are PHOTO interviews!!!

I did not come up with this myself so will give major props to 'A Negative Narrarive' whom my brother did a photo interview with. You should all definately check them out and my bro's interview here

However they only interviewed band so i thought i would be awesome to do the same concept with some fellow togs.

This first interview is with the lovely Tara Ghale who contacted me on my Formspring and asked if she could feature on my blog...i had been wanting to do this for a while and so let her go wild, and i am so glad i did, her shots are beautiful.

So what i do is ask a question and they answer back with a photo...

1. WHAT IS BEAUTY TO YOU?

2. WILL YOU TELL ME A SECRET?

3. WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU DREAM?

4. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US SOME SKIN?

5. WHERE WOULD YOU RATHER BE RIGHT NOW?

6. WHATS FOR DINNER?

7. WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

8. WHAT ABOUT A COLOURFUL PICTURE?

9. WILL YOU MAKE SOMETHING FOR ME?

10. WHAT CONFUSES YOU?

11. WHAT SCARES YOU?

12. HOW ABOUT SHOWING US WHERE YOU LIVE?

13. WHAT CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

14. SHOW US SOMETHING RANDOM?

15. HOW DO YOU FEEL?

See more of the lovely Tara on her Flickr and her Blog

Since I Was A Little Girl...

2010-10-15T18:24:00.003+01:00

I have some amazing interviews coming up which i can't wait to show you but for now, i wanted to do a little blog post to talk about something...

When i was 16 i was in a car accident with my brother and my friend and my brother's best friend James and Tom. Unfortunately, James died in the accident and it changed mine and my brother Jamie's life forever.

I had spent most of my time with Jamie, James and Tom in the 4 months before the car accident and have the best memories of that time before it all got taken away from us.

My brother Jamie was in intensive care for 2 week after the crash, Tom had broken some bones and James lost his life, dealing with James's death was the hardest thing i've ever experienced and i know Jamie's music has been hugely influenced by losing his best friend at 18.

In those 4 months before the accident my brother and James managed to record a whole album of music, they called their band Since I Was A Little Girl. Of course listening to it for the last 7 years and knowing James, the music is very personal to me but the album is the most beautiful melodic music i have heard and knowing the journey behind it makes it all the more powerful.

I thought i would tell you all this so you could get the chance to listen to the music, the songs that were recorded by two best friends in an attick room in the country, the experiments that the came up with and the fun that they had before it was all taken away.

So please go here: http://www.myspace.com/sinceiwasalittlegirl

There are only a few songs on there but you can here their spirit and if you like i will try and find a way to share the whole album.

Thank you for listening and i hope you'll drop by again when my interviews will be up :)

x

An Interesting Experiment with India Hobson

2010-09-13T00:17:00.000+01:00

An interesting experement:

India taken by me.

A few months ago i collaborated with India Hobson over a two day period, the two days with Inida was an interesting experement, before our collaboration i had only arrange shoots with other photographers for a few hours, so i was nervous and excited to see what happened when two photographers met and took photos together over two days.

The shoot started of nicely with me picking up India from Stansted and driving to our first location, of course the plan (if there had been one) was to go to the location, knuckle down and start shooting, but being human beings we ended up chatting for about 2 hours whilst eating sandwhiches and Haribo. Although this wasn't what we were there to do i think our chatting allowed us insight into each others characters and this then meant we were more clued up as to how to aproached photographing each other.

So the day continued with both of us finding wierd and wonderful props around the forest (such as twigs, flowers and trees) and combining props we had brought (such as gold paint and tuns and tuns of muslin material) to get lost in taking photos of each other as the sun began to set.

We then headed home and took a break, this meant eating and talking more which included my father cooking vegitarian friendly food and talking camera gear. We decided to play around with editing, editing the same photo and seeing the results and discussing where and what we would shoot tomorrow.

The next day continued with double shots, something we both found playful and fun, this was an interesting excercise as we both had to relax and interact in front of the camera. I got bitten all over by insects so we headed back to take more shots of each other and experement with shooting style and finally (and thankfully because of the heat) i jumped in the pool for some final shots.

My experience with India, a beautiful, honest and passionate person, was extreemly creativly fulfilling, it was fun taking photos of a person i knew was as passionate about photography as myself and even more intereting to step in front of the camera and force myself to let go of my worries and trust India to do her stuff. India has given me more confidence in myself and reminded me to be more excited about the things that could come up in the future.

I hope i captured her beauty and spirit from our two days of experimentation, chatting and eating.

Here are the photos we each took over the two days :)

The final photo's i took of India....

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

I really found it fascinating to shoot India, plus we had a blast!!! It was great to be on a shoot that was so relaxed, there was no time restraint or client to please, no clothes to show off or hair to style, it was just the two of us experimenting and having fun :)

Sooo...here are the doubles taken by myself and India...

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by me

Taken by India

Taken by India

I think the strangest part of the experiment was when it was time for India to turn the camera on me, i've never had my photo taken by another photographer before, it was bezaar to act in front of a camera when i was so used to it being my own. I soon realised if the photos were going to work i had to just be myself and when i did India got some beautiful shots :)

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

Taken by India

India also brought along a RAD film camera and got some behind the scenes :)

I can't remember who had the film camera at what time for the above but it was mostly India's skilled hands.

So there you have it, i had an awesome time and had a brilliant time doing my favourate thing with another person who loves taking photos too. What more is there to say :)

I hope you enjoy the photos :)

xx

What now, what next and what ho....

2010-09-08T18:55:00.000+01:00

So where to start? A few weeks ago i did an event with Rosie Hardy, we shot an amazing singer and did an ITV event in Leicester Square.

Rosie was amazing, so insanely lovely and such a warm spirit, it was so great to meet her!!! I hope we'll hook up again soon to shoot some arty photos, i think it would be so BOSS!

Anyway here was a little snap i got of her while the music was playin :)

I also did another shoot with the lovely Hollie McAlpine and Elly Moyser, i find working with Hollie so refreshing as she isn't a trained 'model', shooting her always feels like i'm really capturing her and her quirks which is exciting :)

This was my favourate, she makes wearing red lips look effortless....soooo a few days after this shoot i thought i might as well try a self portrait with red lips to see if i could pull it off, whenever i've tried this in the past and it always looks like i've had a go at the strawberry jam....embarrasing.

I do like it though :) This photos has more comments and views on my Flickr
than any other photo which suprised me and also got me just shy of 10,000 views on my Flickr in one day, crazy!!!

I also went to the beach a few weeks ago and this started my 'Faceless Project'. It's pretty self explanatory really, its self portraits but you never see my face therefore the viewer can create their own story.

I have more ideas for this project, it's similar to my 'Adventures of the girl in the red shoes' project but more freedom i guess, hopefully will do more on it soon but here are some from the beach...

......

I know you can see my face in this one....but i liked it :)

Gosh i'm really bombarding you with photos now...i also did a test recently with two models from Profile Models and was really happy with the results...they are on the agency site but here are the girls...

Flossy

and Lilly

Pretty ladies :)

I've also done two editorial for Kismet Magazine which i can't wait to show you guys and have photos in Ink Magazine which i will also release soon!!

I have alot of new work on my website including a new wedding and test section so check it out here: www.alexandracameron.carbonmade.com

So whats next, well i have editorials coming up, more tests after Fashion Week and lots of commissions. Although the deal mentioned a few posts ago is over i still have really cheap portfolio deals on so if you'd like photos of you done like my images above then email me at alexandracameron@hotmail.co.uk to book a shoot soon, before it gets to cold, lol.

I will be doing another big post soon with my collaboration with the amazing and beautiful India Hobson, can't wait to show you all the behind the scenes and final pic we took of each other!!!

Talk to you all soon and as always, if anyone has any suggestions for interviews then let me know :)

Peace
xx

The fashion Photographer - Feature Interview: Lucia O'Conner-McCarthy

2010-08-25T14:26:00.000+01:00

So everyone, say hello to Lucia, you can get lost in her work and be taken to a different world! I found Lucia from a suggestions on here from a follower, so thanking you mucho Florrie :)

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I’m 21, from Hertfordshire and I’m currently studying philosophy in Dublin. In many ways photography is a bit of an escape for me. I signed up for a flickr account in January last year and I had a lot of stuff going on at the time, so picking up a camera was and still is very therapeutic for me.

We’re inevitably exposed to a constant stream of harsh realities throughout our lives and I think it is important to allow yourself to hope and dream, to reach beyond the grit. While I think truth is important I feel like it’s easy to get bogged down with a lot of what’s going on around us and we need a higher existence. I remind myself that the headlines do not necessarily represent all that exists in the world – for me, to believe there is nothing magical in life is not to live. Photography takes me to that magic place 

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

My father was my first influence – he is an artist himself and he taught me how to take my first picture. He helped explain the importance of composition and light to me – a great early lesson.

The real exploration of my photographic style began when I signed up for my flickr account a year and a half a go. There are so many talented artists on flickr I’m sure all of whom have influenced me in some way. My friend and photographer Lee Gladman has also been a bit of a mentor to me - His work is completely different to mine – Lee mostly shoots still life but he has taught me so much – his eye for detail is exceptional and he possesses a huge amount of technical knowledge (which I certainly don’t!) – Just generally he has really supported me, encouraged me with my work and given me some great advice so I owe a lot to him.

We Walk Alone, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

3. What is your favourate style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I appreciate all genres of photography but in terms of my own work I will always be drawn to fashion. Fashion allows us to create alternative realities – the combination of clothing, hair and make-up set/location etc creates a fairytale that you can believe in. I love looking at an image and essentially falling into someone else’s imagination – maybe somewhere along the line someone will fall into mine.

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

The things I find the most inspiring are always drawn from nature so it is usually when I am by the sea or in a forest, surrounded by snow or basking in shimmering sunlight that ideas for editorials occur to me. A lot of the time I will think of something and just write it as a text message in my phone and save it as a draft. Sometimes my ideas will arrive because of a person - whether it be a beautiful girl or boy who will be the centre of the editorial or a particularly inspiring stylist, designer or hair/make-up artist. I will sketch out a lot of the ideas for the various different elements of the shoot and contact the team I would like to make it all happen and explain the concept and make sure everyone is on the same page. A lot of the time my favourite shots are the ones I didn’t really plan so although its good to be very well prepared I try not to over analyze the actual photograph taking.

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

My imagination, Nikon D80, tripod & sunshine (I very rarely if ever use artificial light). I don’t own a lot of equipment – I have been saving up for some new lenses though. I also recently got a fantastic Wacom pad as a birthday present for post processing.

just beyond your imagination, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

Anywhere it will take me! I have no idea where I will go with my photography but my dream would be to be able to continue my work on a full time basis after I finish my degree. To be honest at the moment I’m just having an amazing time experimenting with my work and meeting so many lovely people – I’ll be taking photographs forever.

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography and editorials?

Again, I think fashion is a genre that just really allows for an exploration of the imagination. People will always be attracted to beautiful things, it's in our nature, and I think a lot of people allow themselves to be drawn in by editorials. I also think there is generally a great mystery that comes with fashion photography – I’m always being asked for pictures behind the scenes etc the fashion world is a curious place.

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

8. On your Flickr it seems like you focus on playing with post processing/colours etc, what is your process with this and why do you choose to do it?

I’m not really sure - its funny because a lot of other work I admire is processed in a more contemporary way to mine and although I never intentionally set out to, I am always drawn to the retro and vintage hues. Purple tones feature quite a bit in my work – probably because it’s my favourite colour. My images are normally in colour – again I’m entirely sure about the reason for this I guess I just don’t see the world in black and white.

'Heads Will Roll', originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

9. Who are some other fashion photographers you admire?

Where to start?! Tim Walker’s imagery is so inspirational I could gush for hours about it! I also love Sarah Moon, Wendy Bevan (I’m a huge fan), Camilla Akrans, Sebastian Kim, Ellen Von Unwerth.

tatiana, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking fashion portrait?

Hmm…this is quite a tough question – I’m almost certain I’m not qualified to answer it! The best suggestion I can make is try and do something different – even if its been done before - look at a concept at every angle – how can you interpret it and how can you make it interesting and different? I suppose what I’m really saying is ultimately how can you make it yours?

Down The Rabbit Hole, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

11. Your photos seem to be of mostly women, why do you find women more interesting to photograph?

This is an interesting observation and it has been mostly true up until now – I’ve actually just started shooting boys more recently which I’ve really enjoyed. I do love photographing women though – I love femininity and I feel often there is more scope for what you can do in terms of hair, make-up and styling. Obviously this is not always the case – you can be as outrageous as you like in fashion photography so males are often dressed in eccentric ways! On the whole though I prefer shooting women its true.

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

12. For all those out there who aren't aware, how do you find you models for editorials?

Well I started graduating towards fashion last summer – I just began by photographing my friends. Later I signed up to a creative social networking site – Model Mayhem – I have met and worked with some fantastic people though that and I still use it for finding wardrobe stylists, hair & make-up artists so I would really recommend for anyone starting out in the fashion industry – there are so many hugely talented creatives using it. However more recently I have started working with model agencies so although I still shoot my friends for fun I tend to use professional agency signed models for my editorial shoots now.

'Heads Will Roll', originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

13. What is your favourite fashion shot you have taken?

At the moment it’s probably this one:

'Heads Will Roll', originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

I loved this shoot. I worked hard making sure everything was exactly how I envisaged it with meetings and throwing lots of emails back and forth! The team that I worked with are very talented and they totally got what I was after. With this particular image I had a lot of different things floating around my head while I was processing it – The shoot was inspired by Alice in Wonderland so I wanted to create this diptych image representing a sort of tweedle-dee, tweedle-dum effect. The smoke in the image is also a play on the character of the smoking caterpillar in the story – If you look closely you will be able to make out this particular character in the image enveloping my twins! People have commented that there is something slightly ominous about this image but I think Alice and Wonderland is pretty dark – it’s riddled with sinister connotations and I wanted to show this aspect.

14. What are some of you favourite films, books and musicians?

I am a fantasy girl through and through – I have always been drawn to magic and mystery. Some of my favourite films are the BFG, the Neverending Story, Lord of the Rings, the Labyrinth – I also love Under The Tuscan Sun. My favourite books are Harry Potter (I’m a huge fan I can’t deny it!), I also really like some of Maeve Binchey’s novels. On the whole I like feel good films & books - I try and stay away from depressing films and intense novels – I’m too sensitive for a lot of it and unfortunately I come away from it all with a heavy heart. In terms of musicians I really like David Bowie and Stevie Wonder – I also love Irish folk music – I know it might sound a bit silly but that’s the music that really touches my soul – it’s the only way to describe it!

, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

I’m not sure…I mean it seems strange to me that I only signed up for flickr at the beginning of last year – I think a lot has changed since then – my first uploads are very different from the work I produce today – They’re terrible really but I keep them up so I can see my progress. I’d like to think I’ve improved a bit since then! I had a 2 month solo exhibition ‘Headscapes’ last year during the Christmas period which was really nice. I’ve also met some really lovely people who have a real passion for what they do and the fact that they want to work with me is just incredible really – It’s a real privilege. I’ve also assisted some fantastic photographers recently so I know I still have a way to go yet 

16. Do you think its hard to be original in fashion? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

I think it’s hard to be original in anything! Every speck of visual data we possess is borrowed from something we have experienced – We consistently recycle ideas and inspiration. Fashion is a prime example of this we’re always encountering new re-vamped interpretations of previous styles. I use a sketchbook when I am planning new concepts for editorials which consists mostly of a montage of images – not necessarily fashion – which I borrow, interpret and eventually present to the world so I’m sure the root of my photograph can always be traced back to something else I’ve experienced. Although in saying this, I do always hope to have created something fresh – a different interpretation of a similar idea perhaps.

'Heads Will Roll', originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

17. How do you get you work printed and how do you approach magazines?

It’s a bit of a mixture – Sometimes I will come across a magazine I really like an email them to ask whether they accept submissions. Other times a magazine editor will have come across my work and ask me whether I want to do something for them – such as with the ‘Heads Will Roll’ editorial I shot for KISMET magazine. Another exception is when I work with another creative such as a designer or wardrobe stylist who has a specific idea geared towards a particular magazine they want it to be featured in.

shine on me, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

18. Which fashion photographer do you think i should interview next and why?

I would be very interested to read what Tim Walker has to say, if not Tim then I think a young photographer, Nirrimi, would be a great choice – her images have such a raw beauty to them (www. http://weliveyoung.blogspot.com/) - she’s also just shot the new Diesel campaign.

19. Do you often change alot of the original photo in photoshop?

It depends – I don’t over manipulate images – I’m a strong believer in you can’t make something out of nothing – This is no disrespect meant to those who do invariably manipulate their images - What I mean by this is I don’t think you can ever make a great photograph out of something that wasn’t special to begin with. I use Photoshop mostly for colours and toning & retouching.

'Alone In India', originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

20. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I’m not sure – I’ve only really been working for a very short time so I expect that my style is still evolving and will continue to do so for a while. However I will always be drawn to imagery with a more ethereal quality to it – I don’t expect to be a documentary photographer capturing war or violence in the future – it’s just not me. But then again who knows? To label is to limit I suppose…!

21. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

Love that expression…! Well I actually have my very own website coming out soon which I’m excited about at the moment! www.luciaomc.com, I’ve also got lots of new editorial concepts that I’m excited to start putting teams together for. I’ve been approached by some amazing creative people recently too – a lot of who I’d be really privileged to work with so its pretty mental even receiving an email from them. I’m also excited to work with all these fantastic new faces I’ve been introduced to – particularly from models1 (model agency) – lots of lovely girls and boys on their books!

Turn Back The Clocks, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

22. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I was actually pretty strange when I was little. I was really into all those interactive Dorling Kindersley learning CD-ROMs. I think I wanted to be an archeologist – I actually used to have a subscription to a magazine about rocks (I know…) and I would receive a new precious stone in a little plastic box cello taped to the magazine with each issue – It was exciting stuff for an 8 year old like myself!

Anastasia, originally uploaded by ***Lucia O'Connor-McCarthy***.

Thank you Lucia :)

Check out more of Lucia's work on Flickr

And her website

Please everyone comment and let Lucia know your thoughts and as always thank you for stopping by!

xxx

Hidden beneath the trees, the grass the sun and the leaves.....

2010-08-13T11:50:00.001+01:00

An adventure with Hollie....

It's a simple post really, i just wanted to share :)

I did an event last night in London with Rosie Hardy, was pretty hectic but fun at the same time. Rosie and i met in Pret where we both straightened our hair in the shop because the rain had made us both look not as top notch. I have to say i haven't ever styled my hair in the middle of a sandwich shop....but it was an experience :)(http://www.twitpic.com/2e49vk)

Rosie and i covered two events, a singer on the 6th floor and an ITV event on the 8th floor. The ITV event was also being filmed by....guess who, ITV soooo Rosie and i may even turn up on the tv, eek!

Anyway was a fun little adventure :) I have more editorial and tests coming up so can't wait for them, i'm sooo hoping the weather doesn't continue to be crappy :(

Having a little deal on a shoot too, something in the style of the shots with Hollie above so if you'd like some photos like this the deal is....

Styled look with hair and make up (shoot will take about 2-3 hours), this includes fully edited photos for £70

This is the cheapest deal i have done and will only be for a bit, if you're up for it them email me at alexandracameron@hotmail.co.uk and we can arrange a date :)

Thanks yall :)

Also i want to do some more interviews with fashion photographers, if anyone has any suggestions for who to interview then comment and let me know :)

xxxxx

The Fashion Photographer - Feature Interview: Kirsty Mitchell

2010-07-25T21:49:00.001+01:00

I feel very privilaged to have been given the chance to interview Kirsty, especially at the climax of her amazing Wonderland project.

This interview way a joy to read and i truly see Kirsty Mitchell getting everything she has worked so hard for :)

I hope you enjoy the interview...

Welcome to Wonderland......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I’ve always lived in the south of England, born in Kent and now based in Surrey. I work in East London during the week. How I got into photography is a bit of a long answer and probably too much to explain properly here. It was mainly due to a long chain of emotional events that began with me being ill with insomnia, that then spiraled when my mother was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and sadly her death 9 months later. Picking up a camera became a kind of a therapy for me; it’s been my constant escape and is why all my pictures tend to be about dreams and make-believe. It was an alternative world to the everyday sadness I was living through at the time. Sorry that sounds so heavy for a starting question, but it’s an honest answer.

1..., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

To be honest I don’t look at a great deal at other photography. My two favourite photographers are very different, I love Tim Walker, and I also adore Sally Mann. When it comes to influences I am more interested in art, music, film and fashion. I worked with Alexander McQueen years ago, and he of all people has probably had the most effect on me in my life. I also think Tim Burton is a genius.

2.., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

3. What is your favorite style of photography (Self-portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I love many different types for so many reasons. I love to see collaborations between designers and photographers – the really extreme couture fashion shoots with incredible clothes and mind-blowing styling and props (one of my favorites was when Tim Burton and Tim Walker got together). But equally the absolute beauty and quietness of Sally Mann’s work often leaves me speechless. If you mean my work personally, then I’m split in similar ways – I love creating outrageous sets bursting with colour – but I also love extremely personal quiet moments in black and white.

3...., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

I think I’d need to write you a book to answer this one! I have a very, very long process, because I make everything in my pictures. The ideas are the easy part, I have too many and I think about new ones everyday, the difficult bit is then creating the image.

Once I’m fixed on a concept I usually start with the costumes – I visit vintage fairs, boot fairs, and spend hours on eBay, to start pulling together materials and various pieces. I will then start dying / customizing and sewing together the different elements to make a design. I often add in unusual elements like pages from books, flowers, strange old trinkets and random little treasures.

Elbe van Eeden my friend and make-up artist makes the wigs, and hairpieces, but usually we just work through the outfits together doing what ever needs to be done, whether it is the clothes or the styling. Next we make the props which can take weeks, and I often have a few volunteers who come and live we me for a few weekends, and we build everything in my back garden! It’s a bizarre process, extremely tiring but it can be great fun. We have made a giant wooden cake, enormous stripy candy canes, floral umbrellas, giant eggs, and mini merry-go rounds. Everyone works so hard and I can’t believe they do it all just for the love of it, I’m very humbled by their help. Once we have everything ready we shoot, and then I am left with the editing. Although the set ups are weeks and weeks of work I usually only produce 2 – 3 pictures from a shoot.

5......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

I treat the pictures like paintings -they are supposed to be 1 off images of the scene and no more. I don’t want to saturate the idea of doing endless pictures of the same set up. So usually it’s a full frame shot and then a close up, unless it’s a very big shoot with lots of different characters like my most recent bluebell shoot.

6......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I use a Canon 5D mark II and 3 fixed lenses (50mm f1.4, 85mm f1.4, 28mm f1.4) – I know this is unusual, but I could only afford to buy one lens at a time and that’s how my kit ended up! I don’t use lighting, but I take natural light very seriously and really look for the best way to use it, and obviously use a reflector. One of my most invaluable bits of kit now is a stepladder! It’s become a bit of a joke, but I use it constantly on shoots. It allows me to get different views on scenes and can often give me some really interesting results. You can usually see me dragging it around running up and down it like demented squirrel on most of my shoots!

7........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

My dream is to work as an artist not a ‘photographer’ if that makes any sense. I only do what I do because it is about creating the entire finished product. Making the costumes and the props and being responsible for the entire image is the thing that I am most passionate about.

8......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

Basically I’m a frustrated painter who can’t paint very well – so this is my way of creating everything within the frame, and then the camera is the medium I record it all with. I simply want to create large beautiful fine art prints for a living, and be able to do it comfortably. I am aiming to produce a book of my current project ‘Wonderland’ before the end of the year, and hope to exhibit somewhere special.

9......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography and editorials?

I think fashion photography can appear glamorous to a lot of younger people, and is one of the cooler sides to earning a living as a photographer. At a high-end level it is probably one of the most creatively rewarding genres to be in as well. There are many ways to collaborate with designers, stylists and the music industry, it’s understandably attractive

10.... (full diptych), originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

8. On your Flickr it seems like you focus on one shot at a time, do you do series and not put them up or do you prefer to focus on one fashion shot at a time?

The pictures on my flickr are all part of the Wonderland project which is one enormous series that has been running for a year now. The shoots are all part of creating a giant storybook of full of unexplained characters, so none of them are fashion shoots really. Each picture is intended as a 1off special piece.

11......., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

9. Who are some other fashion photographers you admire?

Tim Walker, Chadwick Tyler and lot of others whose names I can’t remember but I know their styles by heart!

12...., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking fashion portrait?

To be honest I don’t think I’m much of a real ‘fashion’ photographer. When I use models I often tell them to stop posing because it looks false. I’m more interested in emotion or intensity. I like wildness; I like messed up hair and beautiful strong eyes. I often do things to make models look unprepared, like tilt their heads down and then shoot continuously until they are facing the camera again – you get a more natural look. I don’t really like pouting.

13....., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

11. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Absolutely. I don’t shoot in studios at all, I never have done. I am only interested in shooting outdoors and in beautiful landscapes. Nature is my primal focus and all I am interested in; it really is a hugely important element to me.

14..., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

13. What is your favourite fashion shot you have taken? (Link and describe why)

4....., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

I have lots of favourites that aren’t so ‘fashiony’… but the one that is the most popular with everyone is the lavender princess picture from the Wonderland series (no 4) It was just a very special moment after a lot of worry and stress, just as I felt everything was going wrong on a shoot, when suddenly everything went right! The wind picked up and filled the skirts of this enormous dress, just as we had lit the smoke bombs on top of the umbrella – the model pulled this incredible pose that made her look like she was holding onto the umbrella for dear life. It was unexpected and dramatic, and really was incredible to be in front of, I’ll never forget that one.

15......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

14. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Music – Colleen ‘the golden morning breaks, Epic45 ‘ May your heart be the map and most recently I’ve just discovered the two groups ‘Message to Bears’ and ‘Library tapes’ …. Oh and of course Radiohead ‘Inrainbows’ Music is really important to me and I like I’ve loads of different types, but when it comes to editing or just day dreaming out the train window… I need beautiful strange electronic classical stuff that takes you to another place.

16....., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

Films – Into the wild, The eternal sunshine of the spotless mind, Atonement, The Piano, Fight club, House of Flying Daggers

Books – The lovely bones, Wild Swans, A Million Tiny Pieces…. Most books by Chuk Palahnick

17....., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

15. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

Personally finally getting the confidence to work with models and people taking me seriously. On paper – getting a 24 page editorial in LA fashion mag ‘Cliché’

18....., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

16. Do you think it’s hard to be original in fashion? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

My ideas are just what comes to me next, I don’t try to be original, I just do what feels right to me and what I want to spend my time working on really. I never think about how people will see my work as such, its just ‘stuff’ I need to get out of my system.

19......, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

17. Which fashion photographer do you think I should interview next and why?

Rossina Bossio because she is an artist, a real one. She is a brilliant painter and photographer and loves fashion…. but does her own thing with it. She isn’t trying to be anyone other than herself, and has all the unique influences of painting, religion and politics all squashed together. I respect her immensely and find everything she does is exciting and fresh

20......., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

18. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in photoshop?

I spent a lot of time editing, I take it extremely seriously. Mainly because I imagine all my pictures being printed very big – so I literally go through the shots with a fine tooth comb, checking every single pixel like a total nerd! I use photoshop, but never to create things that aren’t there. That’s why I spend so long on making the props and the costumes – I don’t like super imposed fake effects, but I’m certainly not a purist. I think Photoshop helps create the atmosphere you want, and shouldn’t be sneered at.

21........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

19. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I think so; I guess that’s up to other people. I care about what I do and I really treasure the finished pictures, I’m certainly not trying to be anything other than myself.

22 ............, originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

20. What gave you the idea of doing the Wonderland project?

My mother dying. Wonderland is a tribute to her and the stories she read to me as a child. She was an English teacher and read to me everyday until I was about 15. I wanted to focus on something beautiful, that celebrated the magic and imagination she shared. She always loved books, and so my goal is to create the most precious book I can, and dedicate it to her memory on the opening page. Wonderland has brought me some of the most amazing experiences I have ever had, in what has been the most difficult time in my life. It’s a strange combination that has been far more emotional than anything else I have ever worked on in my life. Its deeply important to me, as are the friends I made that now work on it with me

23 ......., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

21. What gives you the strength to follow through and keep going when everything feels so hard?

The dream of being able to do this properly, and selling my work.

24.........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

22. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

Wonderland is an enormous undertaking really and the main focus is finishing it by the end of the summer, then the book, and then a proper full exhibition (fingers crossed). I have lots of ideas that fizz around my head all the time for different things, but I’m trying my hardest to stay focused and follow through with this project first.

26 .........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

I do however want to do something completely different and go back to more spontaneous, natural photography as a breather. More like the pictures from the ‘My Angel’ set. So no props or costumes…… more emotional, raw, and natural. I never want to lose sight of why I started all of this, photography for me is not superficial… there is great depth to how somebody can be captured, and I am forever fascinated and captivated by this.

27.........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

23. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Danny Devito ? ;S !!

28........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

24. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

An archeologist, an actress, and funnily enough as a teenager a photographer. I ended up being a fashion designer, and now I’m regressing again!!

29..........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

Thank you so much Kirsty for the interview :)

See the (almost) complete Wonderland project on Kirsty's Flickr here

See her website here

And finally her blog which has amazing posts on all of her behind the scenes here

33 .........., originally uploaded by Kirsty Mitchell.

xxx

It's my birthday!!!

2010-07-12T23:07:00.002+01:00

All in black, originally uploaded by Once upon a time in Alex land....

Hello everyone, it is my birthday this week so to celebrate i am offering a discount portrait/portfolio package.

A location shoot with 2 styled look including hair and make up and 13 edited images for £120, this won't last long so email me at alexandracameron@hotmail.co.uk

I have dates free, at the moment, as soon as next week but these dates will fill up so send me and email soon to arrange and book a shoot.

Love you all,

Alexandra

xxx

Petticoat lane

2010-06-29T17:25:00.003+01:00

Petticoat lane, originally uploaded by Once upon a time in Alex land....

Hello :)

So yesterday i had a lot of fun with fellow Photographer Charlotte Rutherford, we decided to meet up and take some photos together and of each other so here is the first one :)

I was happy to see another photographer who loved petticoats so it was an easy choice when we were deciding what to dress up in :)

I think my new favourate thing at the moment is my interviews with photographers and meeting up with them to take photos :) I have plans soon to shoot with India Hobson and Jessica Flavin as well as (hopefully) Rosie Hardy so i can't wait to see what happens!!

I have had a hard time recently with a few things and i think i am finally feeling more positive about life. I have had a few moments of getting near to breaking point as i have 3 unseen editorials i really want to get published but am finding it so difficult, if anyone knows of any good magazines please let me know :)

Anyway i can't wait for what the summer holds and i hope the future turns out to be as bright as i'm wishing it to be :)

I'm here on Twitter

xxx

The Fashion Photographer - Feature Interview: India Hobson

2010-06-06T23:59:00.002+01:00

Having been recently introduced to India's work i am shocked that i hadn't found her sooner, her work seems to express her personality and takes you to a dreamy world that makes you want to view more and more.

Sunblock, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I fell into photography through a love of fashion images - at first it was British Vogue that had me when I was studying A Level Art at school, but that soon developed into a love affair with foreign magazines and the more experimental publications... I was an avid picture collector for my sketchbooks and I noticed myself enjoying collecting more than drawing my response; my 17th birthday present was a modest 35mm Minolta and I went from there... I'm a northern girl (Sheffield) and I come from a family of ridiculously creative people - and I suppose I couldn't really have done anything other than be a creative too! Photography was just a natural development for me as my drawing skills never communicated as accurately as I wanted...

Inquisite, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

Inspiration-wise I look to lesser-known photographers such as Annette Pehrsson, Leon Mark and Anthony Crook.
Annette's blog is so beautiful and she holds such a delicate relationship with light and I really admire the way she places images together. Crook is one of my favourite portrait photographers as his work seems incredibly honest and has a strong cinematic element to it, and as for Leon - Polaroid, nuff said!
In the wider world I look to so many different places for inspiration in my work; Paolo Roversi, Joyce Tenneson and Chadwick Tyler melt me, Craig McDean, Nick Knight and Mariano Vivanco take my breath away and then there's the people closer to home: Andrew Farrington, Jay Mawson and Joseph Story... Its such a popular field and you can't fail to find a thousand people's work that you like, of course the downside is that there's a million more that make up your competition!

Exposed, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

3. What is your favourate style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I don't know if there's an answer to that - I'm not sure I like to categorize and define so much, maybe a mixture of fashion and portraiture... Something thats not quite truthful but at the same time remains revealing if that makes any sense. I love to photograph others, and the male species in particular so I guess self portraiture takes a back seat, although I do love the challenge. The beauty in 'fashion' is that you dont really have to justify anything, it just 'is'.

72Ed-2, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

I like to work backwards in a way; I like to source a model and work from them, rather than deciding on a concept and trying to find someone to fit. I never really have any preconceptions of what my images will look like before I start to take them - I find that if I have an idea then I might disappoint myself and I think often something is lost in the recreation of something, which is essentially what that is. I much prefer working with the model's look and personality and seeing what happens; I think it gives my work a more organic nature, and it means i'm always surprised instead of unsatisfied... and I tend to get very excited when I like what we're doing!
Again, in post-production I see what works and what doesn't. I like to play around with colours and contrast and the depth of blacks in my images but besides that, I don't really consider everything too much - that's what makes my work mine I guess; the confidence to know when i've got the shot and when it can stand up for itself without a load of layers and false processing.

Outtakes, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I work with a few different cameras; Canon 5D, Ricoh R1, Polaroid Land cameras and RB67 (sometimes with a Polaroid back too.) I'm a sucker for a homemade lens and have a decent collection! I use Adobe Lightroom to edit mainly. Lighting-wise i'm not afraid to play and I'm no snob; at the end of the day if it works then it doesn't matter who makes it or how much it cost!

*SNEAK PREVIEW*, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I hope to continue to work with people that I get all excited and creative with and I wish to make work that makes me proud to say it's mine!

Daisy, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography and editorials?

I think that fashion imagery allows a huge element of performance and people love to separate themselves from reality; we all live in a world of images and photography allows us to really push boundaries and challenge but also to dream and to just enjoy. Fashion work tends to be rich and sensual and we love to love - after all, its designed to advertise and so what we see we want. Editorials take that one step further; the stories make a single image a more rounded experience and that allows us to really imagine. The bottom line is that we like to pretend we're something more, and there's nothing wrong with that.

*SNEAK PREVIEW*, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

8. From looking at your work it seems like you prefer a light dreamlike quality, why do you prefer this style?

I think that just happens to be what comes out! As I said before, Paolo Roversi melts me, and I think its his influence that leads me in the
dreamy direction. I like to be free from sharpness and have a weakness for a shallow depth of field - and mixed light temperatures mean I can play with colours until the cows come home so I guess there's no other way for my work to look... Maybe I should play more!

*SNEAK PREVIEW*, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

9. Where would your dream location be to shoot the perfect fashion shot?

I've always had an aversion to heat - I figure-skated everyday before school from 7-14 so i'm aclimatised to the cold... Somewhere in the northern hemisphere and somewhere bleak where there's 300 million different types of grey and mist. Beautiful!

Triangle, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

10. What is your best tip to taking a striking fashion portrait?

Without being too obvious; eyes are a huge aspect of a portrait and they dictate the viewers engagement with the image. Aside from that there aren't really rules - it all depends on what/who/how you're shooting.

Oct, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

11. Your photos seem to be of mostly women, why do you find women more interesting to photograph?

At the moment I don't! I have definitely shot with more females than males but at this point in time I'm compelled to photograph guys - to me there seems to be some sort of untouched element to working with guys, images of women are so common and everyone's notions of female beauty are obvious where as there's so much more to challenge with guys. I'm looking to work
with guys a lot more at the moment... and the emphasis on WITH, I shoot WITH, not AT.

Unseen Supplementaire, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

12. What is your favourite fashion shot you have taken?

My favourite work is my editorial story 'Yesterday's News' that I shot recently for Supplementaire. I worked with a small but fantastic team (Mark Lavelle@D1, Krishan Parmar and Shell Sullivan) and created some quiet, soft images of 'a boy with a boat'. I'm not tired of looking at them all yet, and have lots of shots that didn't work into the magazine but still make me very happy!

Unseen Supplementaire, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

13. What are some of you favourite films, books and musicians?

Perfume is a beautiful film - and unlike most book-to-film productions I think it has translated the written to visual incredibly well, as has A Clockwork Orange, which is so well written/directed. Inglorious Basterds is a film that I'd love to have been the DoP on - the light througout is stunning and i'd love to have said I had a hand in putting it together!
Book-wise I love To Kill A Mocking-Bird and The Virgin Suicides, both of which send me into a dream-like state of mind which seems to be reflected in my work. I listen to Sia, Editors and Jose Gonzales quite a bit, and have rinsed Bon Iver's For Emma as well as A Hundred Million Suns (Snow Patrol.) I also like Foo Fighters, Bloc Party and Coldplay - and in a completely different world; Michael Nyman.

Outtake 1, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

14. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

I'd like to give 2 answers for this - a career-based one and a personal one. Career-wise I think i'll have to go with my contribution to Supplementaire again - i'm incredibly thankful to Ian Cole for letting me become involved in such a high standard publication, seeing my work next to some seriously talented photographers, stylists and model names really gave me a boost - and the whole issue has been curated beautifully.
Personally though, my biggest achievement is how comfortable I now feel when working - I have spent a long time really trying with my work and exploring certain techniques and making mistakes, now I feel that i'm much more relaxed and make my work organically without worrying about it. That to me means that I can go as far as I want to which is an extremely fortunate position to be in mentally.

Halo, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

15. Do you think its hard to be original in fashion? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Of course; everything has been done and people will endlessly claim ownership over certain techniques/ideas etc yet on the other hand I always think that nothing can ever truly recreated and so even if someone were to try and 'copy' something it would still bear their mark on it. I prefer to think of ideas as a 'stimulus/respond' process, which through the production loses touch of the inspiration point so is inevitably 'different'. I like to avoid certain motifs that are famously used - for example Tim Walker's work; he's incredibly popular with most fashion photographers, and rightly so but alot of people attempt to bring oversized props and rabbits and an obvious fairytale element Shona Heath style, but what sets out to be 'inspired by' mostly ends up looking low budget and half-hearted. Instead I like to embrace the boundaries of a low budget and not hide that - if i can't paper a whole wall i'll make sure my viewers can see the edges or the tape that keeps it on the wall, suspended disbelief is a huge concept for me. To keep my images looking like mine rather than copies, I tend to make alot of my own props or sets - my theory is that if its handmade by someone, there cant really be anyone that can make an exact copy... I love unique items.

JOSIENUDETIFF-8, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

16. Which fashion photographer do you think i should interview next and why?

Andrew Farrington - he's a master of words as well as pictures and has a heart AND a soul - which is rare.

17. Do you often change alot of the original photo in photoshop?

Photoshop is not my main editing tool - I work primarily in Lightroom to tweak colours and only really use Photoshop for shadow/highlights and occasionally a filter. I sit on the fence when it comes to post-edit techniques; with my film work I rarely touch the images, the beauty for me is in their rawness - and likewise digitally, i like to keep as much of what happened in camera in the final image but thats not to say that I disagree with huge photoshop work; sometimes it really enhances the work.

Swept, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

18. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

I think i'm getting there - I always hope to remain honest in my work and shy away from commercially rich cliches as I believe anyone can make that kind of work, it takes something special to make something that moves someone. I've just completed my degree and so feeling the need to throw myself into new work - I have a few exciting projects coming up that really have me engaged.

All Saints, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

19. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

I'm working with a few different people; an ongoing portrait series with some excellent faces and a well-known clothing brand - better described as a philosophy than a company and i'll be continuing my Backstage work in conjunction with a camera company, thats still in the pipeline so can't say too much! My last big project resulted in a handmade book/magazine and i'm looking to continue along that strain - I love having control over my images right to the final product, its something that I never really appreciated until I began to get my work published.

W25 Magazine, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

20. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

I thought Lost In Translation was pretty much spot on already, although obviously I look nothing like Scarlet, apart from the mouth! Thats a difficult question... Someone that has the ability to switch from quiet, contemplative and sanguine to a giddy entertainer rather quickly - and someone with a naturally mardy face, which gets me in trouble alot!

21. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

A window dresser - which isnt a huge step away from now... I always wanted to style windows until I found out you had to know how to put shelves up and drill things etc - I suppose I could have easily been a stylist, but I like that i found photography as every time I attempt to style I revert to a white dress, they're my photographic weakness. And flowers - i'm addicted to flowers!

Cyan, originally uploaded by IndiaHobson.

Thank you so much India :)

If you haven't looked at her stream before you can find her Flickr here

Follow her on twitter here

See her website here

And finally her blog here

Please comment and show India your support :)

Hope you enjoyed reading...

xxx

Stare

2010-06-02T19:10:00.001+01:00

Stare, originally uploaded by Once upon a time in Alex land....

Model: Amanda Powell @ Nevs
Hair and make up: Terri-anne Neighbour
Stylist: Elle Taylor
Major thanks to: Luke Hayden
Photography and post: Alexandra Cameron

My fav :)

So this shoot was supposed to be the biggest shoot i've done to date, it was supposed to be dramatic and whimsical and amazing......and then, it poored down with rain allll day!!!

We took some photos anyway and the model was happy to dance in the rain and i had some smoke pellets so i managed to get some shots i am really happy with :)

The other shoot that didn't get to happen because of the rain i will plan for soon...i still have all the ideas and props ready for it!

Also i do have some amazing interviews lined up so don't forget to keep visiting, i hope you're enjoying them as much as i enjoy writing them. If anyone has any suggestions of photographers you'd like me to intervew then let me know and i'll see what i can do :)

I will have more shoots coming up so as always keep watching and thank you for all the support :)

xxx

Fun in the sun in a forest...

2010-05-23T11:56:00.000+01:00

Soo on Friday i went galavanting with the wonderful Felice Fawn and Adam Robertson in a bluebell wood armed with lots of props and random things :)

As you can see in the shot above....we had some fun finding places to put lanterns and wedding dresses etc, we even made a few railings out of sticks to out the clothes on!!!

Just hanging out before shooting, i know we look bored, lol, but we were thinking hard.

This was shot by the awesome Adam Robertson on his iphone!!! God i wish i had one, wicked effect :)

This is of course the gorgeous Felice shot by me :) I'm nervous as she shot me too....which i've never done before so looking forward to seeing the results :) I'll put them up here don't you worry.

Anway i will add more as they get edited..

xxxx

The Fashion Photographer - Feature Interview: Rosie Hardy

2010-05-12T22:42:00.002+01:00

So i told you i had some amazing interviews lined up and boy, i didn't disappoint! My second interview in this series is none other than the amazing and endearing photographer Rosie Hardy!!!!!

I want to mention also that having chatted to Rosie and read about her online i don't know if you could find a more down to earth and humble photographer around. Not only is she talented but she seems to genuinely not realise just how good she really is. I hope you enjoy an insite into her work and her world.

1. Fill me in on your background, where are you from and how did you get in to photography?

I'm 19, from a small town called Buxton in Derbyshire. I got into photography when I was around 14/15years old, after doing what all teenagers do and getting a Myspace! I was exposed to so much photography on there (good and bad!) that I started fooling around and taking pictures on a point and shoot. After getting a small yet mostly positive response, I decided to keep going and eventually ended up taking on the 365 Days Project on flickr.com. This involved taking a self portrait a day for the year, and it was around half way through that project that I realized how passionate I was about photography, and how it served me much more of a purpose than just making myself feel good online. I started shooting models and putting a lot more effort into concepts and shoots, and a year and a half on here I am, doing exactly the same thing as I was back then but to a slightly bigger audience.

2. Who has influenced you the most in terms of photography?

I've had alot of influences over the past couple of years - at the start of my 365 Project, I was an avid lurker on Lara Jade's flickr page, and I also loved Denis Olivier's work. About mid-way through my project I discovered Tim Walker, and a few months later got given his book as a present - my whole concept of what I could do with photography went flying out the window when I got his book. It just clicked to me that I could do whatever I wanted, be whoever I wanted to be, and there was nothing stopping me. When you look at Tim Walker's pictures, you see why. Not only is it great technically, but his concepts and vision are completely beautiful in every way. He's like a child trapped in an *exceptionally creative* adult's body. His imagination just blows my mind, and inspires me so much. I also love the eerie, subtle awesomeness that is Gregory Crewdson's photography, and really anyone that really goes out there to create something exceptional. I think it's taking a concept one-step-further that inspires me most.

3. What is your favourite style of photography (Self portraiture? Fashion? Documentary)?

I love portraiture as a whole. I much prefer photographing other people and looking at other people, as it's always much more fun to imagine something about someone than it is to get involved in their reality as a person. I like how fashion gives you a wider creative spectrum if you want to call it that, I like how documentary photography can shake you to your bones, I like how landscapes can completely take your breath away. My favourite favourite kinds of photography do all three ;)

4. What is your process when taking photo's, from getting ideas to editing?

Usually, in what I would consider to be a successful photo + shoot, the location comes first - if you have a good location to work with, the concepts seem to flow more easily for me. Before a client shoot I always try and visit the location first so I know what kinds of concepts would work well. Then it's a case of just thinking "how far can i take this? What can I do to this that is completely out there but still plausible?" I try to have a mental list of all low-budget materials that can transform easily - like paint, flour, flowers, books, water. Then I try and pick one out and combine it with the location. For example, I was on the bus the other day and we drove past a pretty wall with some purple flowers creeping over the edge a little. My first instinct is to just put a model there "and make it pretty", but then I got to thinkin' - I could take purple powder paint and completely drench the model, or throw it in away that left a "human shaped space" behind her, or make her a dress out of purple flowers... there are endless possibilities! Another good method of thinking up concepts for me is to think "What would *insert inspiring photographer here* do?"

5. What are your tools of the trade?

I have a Canon 5D Mark II, a 50mm 1.4 and a 24-70mm 2.8. I borrow my friend Ali's 70-200mm 2.8 lens, I also own a tripod. The rest is done in GIMP!

6. Where do you hope to go with your photography?

I'm not sure yet, but I know I want to say something with it, I'm just not sure what. Right now, I'm just having so much fun creating pictures that I love, and showing in a photograph how I see the world. I take just about any job I am offered because I am still experimenting and finding my own ground, and trying to apply my own style to different kinds of photography. In the next 5 years, I'd like to have made a decent income to support my crazy prop-buying sprees and have a studio of my own.

7. Why do you think people are drawn to fashion photography and editorials?

Gorgeous girls and pretty pictures! I see it as a nice form of escapism. You just get to believe in a world which doesn't really exist but there's no reason not to enjoy hoping it might. I buy into products and pretty clothes as much as the next person, because it makes me feel good. And we all need to feel good! Everyone deserves to. Whatever anyone likes about it - if it makes you happy, keep on doing it!

8. On your Flickr it seems like you focus on one shot at a time, do you do series and not put them up or do you prefer to focus on one fashion shot at a time?

Yes - when I start out on a shoot, I usually have just one image in mind to create. I'll happily post outtakes, but usually I'm just after one image that I can focus all my time and energy into.

9. What is your best tip to taking a striking fashion portrait?

Don't think clichéd fashion shoot. Instead of just having your model strike an "edgy" pose, try combining it with a really soft, fragile expression or the other way round. Have your location tell a story. Put a meaning into it. Instead of just having "model posing on bridge", think of a story - why is she on the bridge? Should she have a prop? Maybe a bicycle? Can you alter the bicycle at all to reflect her personality so we think of her as more than a girl who likes bridges? Maybe have some apples in the basket, maybe be collapsed across the bicycle so it looks like she's been trying to get away from somewhere or something. Have the light coming through from the golden hour to make it seem more cinematic. It seems like so much effort and it's so easy to go "blah, i'll make it look cool in post production" but it really makes the difference between another fashion portrait and a really interesting, beautiful portrait.

10. Your photos seem to incorporate your surroundings and the elements, is this a big part of your style?

Absolutely - I grew up on a farm in the countryside so I have a huge affinity for the outdoors. Plus all indoor locations available to a 19year old girl on a budget aren't very interesting or illegal to enter.

11. What is your favourite fashion shot you have taken? (Link and describe why)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosie_hardy/4320682080/
I loved doing this shoot, because it really reflected how I felt in that moment in time. My ex and I had just decided to split, and I was in a foreign country about to move back home. I felt like I was letting go of an entire part of myself, and I felt lost like a child but at the same time hopeful for what else was ahead of me in my life. I was feeling very unemotional about my future, but at the same time emotional at the prospect of change. I wanted to portray that, so with the help of my friend Ed we found this old abandoned house (with permission!) which had this dilapidated room, which presented the preset of my life - in pieces. I had the model, Tara, lift her head towards the clouds but with an expressionless face, to demonstrate forced progression with life. The clouds were there as a reminder that it's not all bad, that things would get better, that escapism was always around and that you can do whatever you want with your life from here on out, you can see whatever you want to see and believe what you want to believe.

12. What are some of your favourite films, books and musicians?

Right now I love the Cinematic Orchestra and Radical Face, I've been listening to lots of Ingrid Michaelson and Joshua Radin. I also HAVE to get my boogey on to Flo Rida's Low whenever it comes on. My favourite film of all time is A Beautiful Mind. I'm fascinated by the human mind and think people like John Nash are just the most interesting, beautiful people on the planet. I also love the Shawshank Redemption, and Zoolander.

13. What has been your biggest achievement so far with your photography?

Good question. Probably that I've been able to travel to America because of it, I've worked with some pretty awesome people and had so many messages from people telling me I have inspired them. That's probably the best thing. Hearing you have inspired someone, you can't beat it!

14. Do you think it’s hard to be original in fashion? How do you keep your ideas original and fresh?

Of course - it's not just hard, it's impossible to be original in anything. Everything I've seen, every ounce of data that has ever flown through my synapses to create an idea, it's all come from other people and what they've done. Everything I've seen, everything I've heard, every feeling I've felt has come from watching other people and the world around me. You can't be 100% original, but you can be creative with the data you have - use it to create something unusual, put 3 + 4 together instead of 2 + 2. And if it fails, so what? In 100 years your picture might be regarded as revolutionary by the purple monkeys who took over the robots.

15. Which fashion photographer do you think i should interview next and why?

Tim Walker, because I'd love to read that!

16. Do you often change a lot of the original photo in Photoshop?

Yes, almost always.

17. Do you think you have an original style that is you own?

No, I think my style is a mix of photographers I have seen and worked with, and people whose art I've seen and enjoyed. Maybe all rolled up into a giant ball it's technically my own style, but really the elements which make it up are just elements I love in other peoples' work, and their inspirations work, and their inspirations' inspirations' work and so on and so forth.

18. Give us the skinny, what's the next big project you've got coming up?

There's a bluebell field in the woods near my house, it's blooming soon, and I am so so excited. I walk through there at least once a week to keep tabs on when they're coming out because I missed it last year and wanted to cry.

19. Which actor would play you in the film of your life?

Ricky Gervais, I think he'd do a hilarious impression, and there's no way that film would make it as a serious drama.

20. What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?

I wanted to be a singer when I was really young, then I developed hearing and wanted to be a psychiatrist.

Thank you so much Rosie :)

If you haven't looked at her stream before you can find her Flickr here

Follow her on twitter here

And finally her website and blog here

Please comment and show Rosie your support :)

xxx

Dujour Magazine Editorial

2010-05-11T19:41:00.001+01:00

Dujour Magazine Editorial, originally uploaded by Once upon a time in Alex land....

Models:Harper Walsh and Rebecca Dudley @ Nevs
Stylist: Elle Taylor
MUA: Louise Ormiston
Photography and post: Alexandra Cameron

I can finally show you some of the photos from the editorial for Dujour Magazine, the issue isn't out just yet but they let me give a sneak peak of some if the images :) (http://dujourmag.com/)

I just had the best day, went shopping for the first time in sooooooooo long and did so well! :) I finally feel like i can go outside and be excited about what i put on in the morning, for someone who loves fashion, this is a big deal!

Anyway the sun is now shining and i am having a cuppa whilst making my internet rounds.

I missed Flickr and my blog sooo much, please let me know what you think. I will always value you all of your comments and support :)

xxx