Philip
Our interview with Philip from @philipeatsfilm. Philip's photos show the breathtaking extremes of the North American wilderness, from swimming under the shadow of a glacier to great red rock faces and canyons. He expertly captures these awe inspiring landscapes with soft tones and golden light.
"FILM IS TRULY A FEELING AND FOR MOST OF US, IT LASTS A LIFETIME. SOME OF US STARTED IN FILM AND HAVE NEVER REALLY LEFT"
How did you become a photographer?
"I have always had an on and off relationship with photography. My camera models have evolved as I grew up - from film, to digital, to SLR, to smart phones. In 2018, I circled back to my roots and purchased a CANON AE-1 and committed to film ever since. This was the same exact model my Mom used during my childhood growing up in the 80s so shooting with this camera has a personal connection to me. With a background in dance and music, I've always enjoyed being a storyteller and enabling nostalgic experiences. Photography is a creative avenue where I find the (slow) film process very therapeutic, personal, and rewarding."
What does a perfect day usually look like for you?
"I believe in productive, purposeful, and rewarding days. A day like this might look like I've tackled a handful of items on my to-do list, incorporated some kind of physical work out, spent some time outdoors (my second home), included some kind of creative work, and of course some kitchen therapy."
What has been the peak of your photography career? (so far!)
"Being featured in a gallery show/exhibit in 2019, and then being invited back to produce my own photography show in 2020. It's rewarding and humbling to be able to share collections of my work printed, framed, and in a space where people can experience your perspectives in person. It is also a very vulnerable feeling and I'm excited to keep absorbing, growing."
Your favourite motivational quote?
'"Study how water flows in a valley stream, smoothly and freely between the rocks. Learn from books and wise people. Everything - even mountains, rivers, plants, and trees - should be your teacher." -Morihei Ueshiba"
Do you think that film is truly still alive? Even in such a digital era?
"Absolutely. I've noticed over the last few years the energy put back into film. The community is growing, evolving. The majority of people are versed in digital platforms and it's become much faster and easier to be able to share your own film journey. It's wonderful to see so many people want to learn the earlier roots of photography and fall in love with the components, the aesthetics, the process, and the feeling. Film is truly a feeling and for most of us, it lasts a lifetime. Some of us started in film and have never really left."
What film camera and film do you usually use?
"I use a 1976 Canon AE-1 and have primarily used one lens, the 50mm 1.4. I plan to pick up a new point & shoot and eventually a new film SLR model soon!"
