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!"
]]>
Can you tell us a little about this shot?
“This shot is very simple, but it actually means quite a bit to me. My partner and I were eating lunch on a bench in Monterey, California with this scene as our view. I kept staring at it as we ate. I remember eating quickly so I could go get my camera and make this image. I was very new at shooting medium format and honestly still a little skeptical of my own ability. When I got the scans back, my heart did a little dance. I was so happy...not only because I made the image I wanted, but it’ll always make me think about sharing a meal with Tyler there on that bench.”
What inspired you to first pick up a film camera?
“I picked up my first film camera very early on at the start of my photography journey. I was experimenting with everything—cameras, settings, digital, film, compositions, etc. Film seemed like the ultimate experiment, since you don’t know what you’re going to get until you get it.”
How did you become a photographer and what were you doing as a career before?
“I started photographing in high school, so it’s actually been my main form of work since I joined the workforce.”
Are there any inspirational words that have left a lasting impression on you?
“Joe Greer has spoken about making photographs rather than taking them. When I first heard that, I almost didn’t see the distinction between the two and how they differed so greatly. But now, when I’m composing, I can’t get it out of my head. I’ll think, “I’m making this image. How would I like it to be?”
Finally, if you had to only shoot colour or black and white for the rest of your life - what would it be?
“As funny as it sounds, I’d probably choose black and white. It seems there are more boundaries there...and if you’re going to limit yourself like that anyway, why not go all the way?”
]]>
What inspired you to first pick up a film camera and how old were you?
"My photography has always been gear-inspired. I love the beauty and feel of an all mechanical film camera. I was around 16 years old when I started photographing friends and carrying a camera on my travel journeys. I also made a lot of photos of cameras, the camera porn style pictures appealed to me and I collected these kinds of pictures on my tumblr page, creating a sort of vintage lifestyle mood."
I can see that you self develop and scan your work - do you have any tips for this?
"Lockdown has forced me to try this at home and that was actually the best step forward in my photographic learning process. I advise people to watch some YouTube tutorials as there are plenty available, and invest a relatively small amount of money on equipment. The Cinestill tool has really made the temperature part very easy and is a nice bit of kit that boosted my confidence to try it at home."
What inspires you creatively?
"Looking at other people's work, copying some of the elements I like in mine. I feel most inspired by good light and nice settings.
The photographs I like most were made whilst traveling. Photo walks are also very inspiring and force you to concentrate on creation."
The most interesting/unusual situation that photography has gotten you in?
"No specific situation comes to mind but I find the film photo community in general very friendly and welcoming. It allowed me to get to know people that share the same interests."
Do you think that film is truly still alive?
"I really think film is more alive than it has been for the last 20 years. People are fed up with emotionless digital image making and are looking for a more involved process. Film photography is a real learning commitment and intellectually inspiring. There are so many different layers to try out."
Finally, are there any quotes that you live by?
"There is one quote I live by that is not specifically photography related and that involves the concept of obsolescence: better but less that lasts longer. It’s the same thing as saying “I’m not rich enough to buy cheaply”. Relating this to photography I would advise to buy a kit of gear of the best quality available, even if expensive, and stick with it for as long as possible, cherishing it and passing it on to the next generation. I hate obsolescence."
]]>
I think people crave the concrete tangibility of film. There's a sense of satisfaction that comes from doing something in its most organic and original form.
]]>
At what age did you start shooting with film? What sparked this passion?
"I bought my first film camera in February of last year (2020). For me, photography started out as more of an interest and curiosity than a passion. I’ve always been creatively inclined and visually inspired. But more than anything, I really just wanted to find out what I could do with a camera. I was curious to see the kind of work I was capable of creating. It was through shooting and scratching that itch that the curiosity became a passion."
Can you tell me about this shot (La Piscine), where it was taken, the concept/message of the photo and why you chose to shoot what you did?
"The intention behind this photo was purely vibe-driven. I could assign more meaning to it, but honestly, I just wanted a shot that felt classic and timeless. The title, “La Piscine” was a direct reference to the 1969 film. I wanted to recreate the image of Romy Schneider in that white one-piece."
What gets you up in the mornings? And what’s the first thing that you do?
"I love sleep more than most things, but I feel I owe it to myself to squeeze each day for all it’s got. It’s this sense of responsibility and excitement for what I could reap from the discipline that gets me out of bed in the mornings. So after hitting the snooze button for the 7th time, I get out of bed, make myself some coffee, make a list of all the things I want/need to do for the day and check them off as I go."
Are there any quotes that you live by?
"Yes, I’m not sure who said it, but the quote is: “Your comfort zone will kill you.”'
What inspires you the most?
"I’ve always had a love for classic shit. True rock n roll (Hendrix), classic cinema (Kubrick), timeless fashion (Ralph)... These people and the worlds they created inspire my work, both conceptually and aesthetically. Shooting film was a way to create my own world, in the style that shaped me."
Do you think that film is truly still alive? Even in such a digital era?
"I definitely think that film is still alive. I think people crave the sort of concrete tangibility of it. There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from doing something in its most organic and original form."
Do you prefer analog over digital photography? Do you think these two modes can coexist, or is it necessary to take sides?
"I personally prefer analog to digital, but also believe the two modes may coexist. I think they each serve their purpose. To me, it’s like the difference between a firewood grill (film) or a gas grill (digital). Both get the job done, there are pros and cons to each, it’s really just a matter of preference."
]]>Wherever I go and whatever I do, I see the world as a movie.
]]>
Do you think that Film is truly still alive?
“Shooting film is like a sister. I never grew up with a sister, but film is my imaginary eldest one. Picking on me, but teaching me how to love. And, like every beauty of this world, film will live until the last one forgets about its magic. My grandpa always told me “If you truly believe in something, if you truly love someone, you’ll always find a way.” So let’s find a way to stay beautiful happy fools and keep this magnifying bitch alive.”
What inspired you to pick up a film camera? Do you shoot digital too?
“I have always been an old soul stumbling through this new world. Connected to old music, old films, words, photographs and manners. Maybe it’s because I spent a lot of time with my beloved grandfather when I grew up -- Sneaking up on his office door, watching him through the keyhole writing letters on his old black continental typewriter. I admired him, hitting the big, heavy keys with such joy. I always had a camera in my hand. Mostly video when I grew up. Running in my denim overall, at the age of four with a big smile and wild blond hair, through the living room and filming everything that felt just right for me.
I’ve been exclusively shooting film for two or three years now, developing mostly on my own, scanning on my own, and working as much offline as possible. But I have also spent a lot of my time using digital cameras, to grow and work commercial-wise. There is no right or wrong, it’s just about whatever feels the greatest for you.”
What do you do when you feel a lack of inspiration?
“You just have to work through it! Inspiration is something you can’t control, but what I’ve learned is, that when you truly commit and put the work in and keep on creating, write and write and write until no words are left, or pick up the camera and shoot, take your guitar and play, your paper and paint, inspiration will come. For sure! It will reward you like a big smiling penguin, sliding your way on its belly.”
I noticed that you also make films, can you tell me a little about this too?
"Making movies, or writing screenplays - creating - is like my big first love in summer camp. We all have one big talent in life. Maybe we can do a lot of things pretty pretty good - but one thing without question - comes with such ease, and that’s our biggest talent. For me it’s been always canoeing, but in the creative world it’s probably filmmaking that comes the closest to it.
Wherever I go and whatever I do, I see the world as a movie. I even see my own life as a movie and try to be the hero in my own story. Always on the bottom, gasping for the big dream. Not to be dramatic, over-romantic or just someone you have to pretend to be. No, it’s more like the beauty of reaching heaven, of moving pictures and dialogue. Framing your own emotions in such ways that you can transfer it into the heart of someone else. Even if it sounds kinda soppy when I put it like that.
But it’s all way harder than it looks, it is a big mess going into the process. A lot of things to deal with, a lot of pressure and later on – as the story goes on – you can crystalize the details of your characters. You can outline her real self-existence. The reader or watcher may receive the “punch of the story’’ and the actual content of its characters which are conjured up right before the end."
Are there any quotes/inspirational words that resonate with you?
"F. Scott Fitzgerald once wrote: “I learned a little about beauty -- enough to know that it has nothing to do with truth”."
How has travelling between countries affected your career? Is it something that you'd recommend?
"My life is build around work, and my work is built around my life. I don’t separate these two. Everything I do, everything I create is part of both worlds. I’m within and without at the same time. I mostly don’t travel - I move around. It’s the same with me and vacations, I never go and hang for no reason. I enjoy life in it’s fullest wherever I am and wherever I go - I always move with the need of creating something beautiful.
But of course. There are times in which I spent a lot of moments in airplanes or traveling to get to Jobs. For me, it’s part of my life. I need to be on the move, whenever I spend too much time in one place, I start to feel restless. But I guess that will change once I’m starting to grow white hair."
]]>
My film photography usually always focuses on a feeling, whenever I press the shutter I'm thinking about what sensation I'm capturing.
]]>
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“I’m relatively new to the world of film. Apart from the occasional roll over the years, it wasn’t until the start of 2020 when I really fell in love with it. I picked up a Nikon l35af point shoot not long before the UK went into lockdown. I spent the following months wandering the streets and countryside close to where I live in Sheffield, UK. The whole process slowed me down, I took way more time composing a shot, and started to look at the environment around me differently. I think this is down to the number of shots you get on a roll.
When I shoot digitally I tend to spend more time looking and reviewing the shots, separating me from the environment or the subject that I'm shooting. But with film, you stay more connected to the moment, you can't review and recompose, you have to trust your instinct and move on. I find myself shooting photos that I never would have a few years back. It's strange how a 30 year old camera can have such an impact on your way of thinking!”
What has been the highlight of your photography career so far?
“I’ve been lucky enough to work around the globe and shoot some wonderful and amazing places. But a real highlight for me is 2020, it was a difficult year for everyone and at moments a real struggle. But one thing it gave me was time, I slowed down and really started to enjoy photography again. Sometimes we chase ideas of these amazing photos we want to shoot in some exotic location, but we forget what’s on our own doorstep. People often always chase the end goal, and dream of what's to come, but you have to love the process of getting there, if you do then you'll start to progress and everything will fall into place. By having this spare time to learn and explore where I live, I started to shoot photos that I would have once missed. From landscape changing seasons, candid moments of strangers in the streets to sunsets with friends. I really do feel as though last year was a turning point for me and where I want to go with my photography.”
What are you passionate about besides photography?
“I’ve always been into mountain biking, you could say that is how I fell into the work of film production and photography. Always being outside and I would be forever shooting photos of friends or making videos of them. As the years went by this progressed into a career, it all happened so quickly that I sometimes struggle to see how I got to where I am today. Other hobbies include, coffee shops, eating, hiking and generally just being outdoors. But no matter what I'm doing I'll always have a camera on me…”
Can you tell us about a book/film/album that has left a lasting impression on you?
“I’ve read a lot of books over the last year but one that I recently finished is “Good vibes good life” by Vex King. The title gives you an idea of what this book is about, and it's definitely an inspiring and thought provoking read. I recommend it to any one who is struggling to find themself or feeling a little stuck, it might just boost your confidence. “How I Make photographs” by Joel Meyerowitz is another one i’ve just finished. Best known for his spontaneous pictures on the streets of New York and instrumental in changing the attitude towards the use of colour photography. A short but thought provoking read I'd recommend.”
Do you have a particular photography style that you gravitate towards?
“As a photographer I always find it hard to describe my style, over the years I feel it has definitely changed though. I’d say my film photography usually always focuses on a feeling, whenever I press the shutter I'm thinking about what sensation i’m capturing and how best I can convey that through the image. Sometimes it’s a photo of a complete stranger who happens to be in the right place at the right time. On the other hand it’s a moment between friends or family. I think a photographer's style is something that comes to them without them really knowing. When I get my negatives developed I’m always questioning why I took that shot, but then when I look at the frame it usually becomes clear to me.”
]]>
It's so fulfilling to see other people open a new chapter in their life because of your passion.
]]>
Can you tell us a little about Kontrast Kollektiv Berlin? Who are you and what do you do?
"Kontrast has a deep meaning for us. It begins with the difference in each of our members' photography. What makes life interesting when there is no contrast and difference between each individual?
Furthermore, it is the creative space for the three of us to unfold our minds and passions. It's like a baby we all care about, with the aim to grow and get it where it's supposed to be. Where that is, is unsure yet. In general, we hope that this baby will create good memories, friends and individual development."
How did Kontrast Kollektiv start? When did your passion for film begin and how did you all come together as a collective?
"Each of us had a huge interest in photography already. Mostly, we executed this hobby alone. But as we came together in Berlin in 2020, we simultaneously discovered the process of analogue photography. Our hobby became our biggest passion, which strengthened our friendship even more. Since we spent so much time together evolving our film photography, merging together as a collective was the only logical conclusion."
I can see that you guys are based in Berlin, what is the film community like there?
"In our perception, film photography is experiencing a hell of a trend in Berlin - and it's only the beginning! We are happy to see the community's steady growth. Since the "Berliner" is very open minded, it's also easy to connect within the community. Going out on the street to shoot some film will always get you into interesting conversations with other film lovers!
One day we went to photograph portraits of strangers, one of us approached a guy to get a picture and when he was finished, the other guy took out his film camera and said: "Now it's my turn!". That was a lovely moment. We also have to point out that the supply and services for the film community are very accessible in Berlin. Shops like @fotoimpex, @safelightberlin and @click_und_surr treat the film community very well!"
What advice can you give for someone who wants to start shooting film?
"Just start! But be aware that gear is not the most important factor. Especially in the beginning, don't waste a lot of money on an expensive camera. Instead, take a cheap and functional camera and just start! Let the film in your camera and most importantly, yourself, lead you through your picked motives. One little trick to discover old treasures is to ask your family and closer friends if they own old cameras. You wouldn't believe what most of them hide in their attics! In most cases, the gear to start is very near."
Do you believe that film is truly still alive, even in such a digital era?
"We think it's more alive than ever before. In the past, film photography was the only opportunity, so people couldn't appreciate it as one of multiple ways. Today it's an alternative. People who choose film, choose deceleration and a more challenging approach to photography. It's another layer of expression and a statement to the time of sensory overload and inflationary consumption."
What is the craziest/most interesting situation that photography has landed you guys in so far?
"The craziest experience so far happened on our journey in Budapest. We found friends who had absolutely nothing to do with photography. But when we took them to a lost place to take some pictures, we got the biggest appreciation you can experience as a photographer. We infected them so much with our energy we're dedicating to film photography, that two of them started film photography straight away and made incredible progress.
It's so fulfilling to see other people open a new chapter in their life because of your passion, which is also part of our central idea in the collective."
Finally, what are your future plans for Kontrast Kollektiv - where would you like to take your passion for film photography?
'"The journey is the destination". Our superior aim is to create a unit which is the entirety of our creative development. We have many ideas that are constantly evolving, which makes us really excited regarding the future of Kontrast Kollektiv.
For the near future we thrive to build out the Kontrast Kollektiv community and strengthen the bonds we already have. Such bonds were already really enriching our emerging journey, as pages like Modern Film Archive are providing valuable dialogues and platforms to give smaller artists a voice."
]]>I think I have an internal narrative of a kind of semi-fictional world, and the photos I take are an expression of that.
]]>
Can you introduce yourself and tell us where you're from?
"My name is M.Koa Thomas, I’m a photographer from the U.K, currently based in New Zealand where I have found a bit of a safe haven since COVID hit."
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“I grew up watching different types of movies. Even as a child I was interested in the different characters, their mannerisms, how their clothes and appearance represented them, and even how they were filmed. I wanted to create this myself in some way, and a camera was the most accessible way that I could try and capture this vision that I had. That’s how I fell into photography.”
What was the first film stock that you ever used?
"The first film stock I ever used was a Fuji color 200 I believe. I loved the saturated colours and nostalgic look it produced with the grain, especially in bright conditions.
Since then I found I wanted my images to look softer and less grainy, concentrating on the tones a lot more, rather than the colour and brightness.
For me Portra 160 or 400 is great for taking portraits, and Kodak Ektar 100 for landscapes."
What message do you try and convey with your images?
“What I try to capture with my images when taking photos of people, is to try and capture a mood and create a character from the images. I think this goes back to what totally made me pick up a camera in the first place.
When taking photos of landscapes and textures, I like to try and capture surrealism. Usually something that you have to look closer at. I also feel like I may subconsciously be taking photos of types of ‘scenes’ I envision the people I take photos of to be seen or found. I think I have an internal narrative in my head of a kind of semi-fictional world, and the photos I take are expressions of that."
Where do you get your inspiration from?
“The movies I enjoyed watching were lots of old noir films, Tarantino movies with their incredible scripts and characters and old gangster movies set in the 60s and 70s such as; A Bronx Tale, Carlitos Way, Sleepers, Casino, Once Upon A Time In America, Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, Mean Streets. I feel like the characters and their mannerisms in these movies are perhaps something I look out for when taking photos of people, or sometimes I may draw this out of them in some way. I feel like I can imagine a fictional narrative in which the model would fit into when taking their photo, and try to capture them in a way that represents the character I have developed for them in my mind...”
]]>
I'm constantly trying not to think that there's a perfect moment, as nothing will be flawless in life.
]]>
How old were you when you first started shooting with film and what inspired you to pick up the camera?
“I was 16 when I got my first film camera and it was from my family. I always loved photographing moments with my friends and days out to the country parks.”
What cameras and film do you enjoy using the most?
“I do have a lot of fun with my Leica M4-P. It’s lightweight and flexible enough for me to carry around with me the whole day with ease. My top picked film stock is definitely the Kodak Portra 400, it’s great to use it in most occasions with its fast speed and neutral tone.”
How has the Instagram community inspired your work?
“Sometimes when I have no idea of what I should shoot with, I look at others’ work to appreciate the elements that they included in their work. It’s so stimulating when I figure out something that I had never thought of. Then I reflect on what I have missed and make attempts to incorporate these new techniques in the future.”
What advice would you give to someone who has never shot with film before?
“Try to imagine that you are looking for beautiful creatures with imperfections and learn to appreciate it. I’m constantly trying not to think that there’s a perfect moment, as nothing will be flawless in life.”
Do you have any favourite inspirational words/quotes?
“We are making photographs to understand what our lives mean to us.” — Ralph Hattersley. I feel like every time I review the photographs that have been developed, I can still visualise that particular time. I realise that I’m actually a part of the photograph and I’m experiencing that moment.”
]]>
What is it that you love about film photography?
“What I love about film photography is that you only have 36 shots, so you have to make them count. You have to think about every shot and try to capture the essence of the story that you want to tell.
When I shot these pictures with Naomi I was (and maybe still am) in a very dark spot. I tried to show the beauty within fear and sadness.
Yes she is sad. Yes she cries, but she is going to be ready to evolve. In the end that‘s all we want. We want to be better tomorrow, than we were yesterday.”
How old were you when you first used an analogue camera?
“I started shooting at 24, a little more than a year ago. We never had an analog camera when I was a child so I don‘t have any emotional connection to it. The reason why I started is actually pretty fun: I used a disposable small cam and pretty much loved it from the first second.”
What inspires you the most?
“Humans, faces and their stories. I find comfort and inspiration in sadness and misery, which sounds kind of dark but it makes sense - think about it - things that make you sad are way more present in your head than things that make you happy. I often talk with my models about things that made them sad in the past (it‘s important that they are emotionally done with that) and try to catch that feeling in my shots.”
Can you tell us about a book/film/music that you’ve come across recently that has left a lasting impression on you?
"Pink Floyd - Dark side of the Moon. This is my go-to album if I need to think about new shots. Listen & get inspired!"
If you had to go back and tell your 18 year old self one thing - what would it be?
“If you don‘t put yourself first, no one will - I still need to learn this.”
How did you stay creative during lockdown?
“I think the lockdowns are pretty hard on some people. Please ask your friends how they feel - mental illness doesn‘t have a face. I tried to write more, I watched movies that I usually wouldn‘t watch or started to take pictures of my dog - who is the most beautiful & best boy."
A favourite inspirational quote?
“Easy. ‘If you have the ability to love, love yourself first’ by Charles Bukowski. So simple, yet so powerful - I have so much love to give but I struggle so hard with self love, which is kind of ironic, isn‘t it?”
Can you tell us about these images?
“Never trust a mirror for it only shows your skin. She is sitting in front of a mirror, exposed to herself and her thoughts.
Is she breaking the glass because she is scared of that intimacy or because the glass symbolizes a prison for her fears from which she wants to break free?
Thats the beauty about Art, my reality doesn‘t have to be your reality."
]]>
Film carries mystery behind every picture, as if you could feel the soul of the photograph through those unique compositions.
]]>Our interview with Montreal based photographer Samuel Legault. His skill for capturing the essence of his subjects and playing with shadows and light can be seen through his beautiful portraits. Samuel has worked for fashion, art and music brands.
What made you first pick up a film camera?
"I had already started doing photography at the time, using a digital camera, when my mom gave me her own film camera that was actually way older than me. I tried using it and really fell in love with the results. Every pictures felt like it shared a unique story. I always wanted to be a storyteller but I am not a good writer; film photography definitely became my medium to do so. Since then, I only use film when it comes to photography."
Do you have a particular photography style that you gravitate towards?
"It’s really hard to tell. I don’t especially gravitate around one specific style but I think I use different ones for different circumstances. Surely I do more of fashion and minimalist photography. Therefore, I really enjoy taking portraits, architecture, anything skateboard related and street style. What’s really nice about photography is being able to use a certain style in a different circumstance it is made for so you can constantly approach a frame in a various way, always making it unique."
What are you passionate about besides photography?
"I’m really passionate about fashion; I think that a lot of my work reflects this passion of mine. I would also add that most of my passions from when I was a kid are still as strong to this day, maybe even stronger. Manga, mythology, cinematography, art and architecture are all things that drive me and help me develop my own vision in photography.
When I think of it, most of my photos have been inspired by a scene from movie, a frame from one of my comics or a theme based on a folktale. We have such an incredible way of remembering specific details when we see something; like when I did a styling shoot, the way the clothing were worn reminded me of a scene in the movie Akira (film by Katsuhiro Otomo) and I think I took almost 10 shots based and inspired by that scene. It’s such a nice feeling to have! When it comes to passion it is so easy to get carried away and speak for hours since you love those subjects!"
Can you tell us about a book/film/album that you have come across recently that has left a lasting impression on you?
"If we’re speaking of books, there are so many I could go on about but definitely “Garçon Style”, by Jonathan Daniel Pryce, is one to mention. The book is a fashion photography book and in terms of colour and photography, his work is stunning! He has a really unique way to present clothing and the person wearing it. Two years ago, I had the chance to meet him at Paris Fashion Week and we spoke about his work, including one very specific picture he took - it was truly an amazing experience."
]]>
I like to take photos of everything that means something to me. It's the best way to get to know myself better.
]]>
What inspires your photography?
“There are many things that make me take a photo: the light, the colors, or the people around me. When I think if there is a common message behind my photos, I always remember an interview by Joel Meyerowitz, where he said that ‘he photographs to see what he’s interested in’."
What do you love the most about film?
“For me, the best thing is the pace of the analog process, away from the immediacy that surrounds us today. It's the surprise when developing what keeps me thrilled and it makes me love what I see more.”
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“I started using film cameras almost 10 years ago, when my father gave me his old Minolta. I’d always been interested in photography, but it was when I discovered the analog world that this interest became a passion.”
I can see in your bio that you’re from Barcelona! Amazing! Is there a large film community there?
"Yes, luckily, I live in a city where there is a huge creative community. It's great because it's easy to surround yourself with people with the same creative concerns to share and learn a lot with."
How did you stay creative during lockdown?
"At the time of confinement, I had just moved into a new apartment, which has a lot of very nice natural light, so I have been able to take a lot of photos, especially of the afternoon sun on my unmade bed (one of my favorite images of this confinement)."
Describe film photography in 3 words…
"Memory, surprise, poetry"
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“Though I didn’t realize how special it would become to me, I’ve been begging my mom to buy me disposables at the pharmacy since I was a kid. She’d get me Fujifilm Quicksnap Disposables and I’d load the rolls with staged pictures of my dolls posed around the house, and then I’d ask her to pay for prints and CD scans. I still have a lot of those pictures. But it wasn’t until college that I actually learned how to properly shoot and develop film for the first time on my own.”
What message do you try and convey with your photography?
"It’s hard for me to say there’s just one message or theme for all of my images. Every shoot comes with a different story and experience. I guess if there’s one take away, I want it to be that there’s beauty in everyone and everything, you just have to look."
What are your hobbies, besides photography?
"Other than photography, I spend a lot of time cooking and watching movies. My family owns an Italian restaurant where I grew up so food has always been a really special part of life to me. I absolutely love to cook, and I find it to be a good escape in the process. I’ve also been a big movie person since I was a kid. I always find a source of inspiration in movies and I credit it mostly for how I got into photography to begin with."
Do you have any advice for others starting with film photography?
"I don’t think there’s a perfect way to start anything and once you get going, you never stop learning. So my best advice would be to just start and don’t stop. So many people say it but the best way really is to just shoot as much as you can."
Can you tell us a little about these shots?
“This shoot is really special to me because I shot this in my hometown in Arizona. This was the first time since leaving home for college 6 years ago that I was able to return home long enough to shoot a full series. Also, what’s even cooler is that the model is a childhood friend with a mutual love for film. This is a shoot I hold dear to me because I feel like it truly captures how beautiful the desert is and how special my home is to me."
At what age did you start shooting film, what sparked this passion?
“I've been taking photos somewhat seriously off and on since I was a toddler; going through phases of growth and plateau. Recently i've been more immersed in it then ever before though.”
What feelings do you want to encourage with your images?
“The only consistent thing i've done with my photography through the years was try and create this very specific moment and feeling with each photo. I want to recreate the moments we have through our lives where, at any given time or place, you just stop and feel a bit more aware, and a bit more immersed in your environment, even if just for a moment.”
What camera gear are you enjoying the most?
“I most enjoy USING my contax G2, but i mostly use my RB67 for the results it provides (even though the experience of shooting it in blizzards at night is awful).”
How is your work original?
“I don’t think my work is original. There are very, VERY few people able to culminate anything somewhat original these days. It’s all been done before, at least to a degree. Everything is informed by the context with which we exist in.”
What gets you up in the morning? What's the first thing that you do when you wake up?
"In the summers, biking gets me out of bed. We have such a short riding season up in the mountains and its all I live here for. First thing every morning, with no exceptions, is making my (first) coffee of the day in an aeropress."
Do you think that film is truly still alive? Even in such a digital era?
"That's a really tough one. I'm really unaware of the general populations attitude towards film, and especially the digital worlds view on it. I hope it's alive and strong because I personally love the process of using it. Hopefully medium format digital has a used market by the time film does die!"
What's the weirdest/best situation that photography has landed you in?
"Photography hasn't landed me in any weird situations in many years because it's mostly old man type photos now. 8 or so years ago I had a tumblr called 'rvabove' where my friend and I would take photos from roofs in Richmond. Getting the shot on a crane at night was one of the most stressful experiences of my life due to the heights and the cops afterwards. I think the blog is still up but I have no idea haha!"
For more of Reese's work, head to his Instagram or Site!
]]>
What made you first pick up a film camera?
"When I was playing around with some vintage lenses on my digital camera I really started loving the imperfections and character the lenses brought to my images. From there, I just wanted more! So I bought my first analog camera and was hooked ever since.”
Where are you based and is there a large film community there?
“I'm based in South Germany (Baden-Württemberg) near Heidelberg. Sadly there is no big film community here that I'm aware of.”
What advice would you give to someone starting with film photography?
“Just pick up the cheapest film camera and stock and work your way up from there. Making mistakes is part of the fun, don't stress. Oh and always rewind your film before opening the back.”
What film camera could you not live without?
“It always seems to be the next one that's on my eBay watchlist. But for now, it's my Pentax ME.”
What are you passionate about besides film?
“Being a volunteer Firefighter and basically everything related to technology.”
Are there any quotes that you live by?
“I’m just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe." - Jango Fett. Yep, I'm a Star Wars nerd. Sorry about that.”
Which places inspire your art the most?
Where are you from and when did you start film photography?
“Ok so I don't know where to begin... I'm based near Bordeaux, France and I’ve been doing photography for 3 years now, with 1.5 years doing film. I started with night photography and I'm still into it. It looks like I'll never get bored of it...”
How would you describe yourself as a photographer?
“I'm quite a lone wolf when it comes to photography. I like doing my own thing, sometimes even illegal things. You know, being somewhere I shouldn’t be just to have opportunities to capture things that catches my eye. It also lets me discover more perspectives on a subject - and of course an andrenaline shot.”
Do you have any weaknesses as a photographer?
“I am very hard on myself with what I create. I try to have a high standard in the niche I'm in. I still have a lot to learn but I'm quite happy with the progress I’ve made in these past 3 years in photography.”
What do you love about film?
“Analogue photography has benefits that digital doesn’t have, it will sound cliché but it's the truth. It’s more diverse/tactile and you learn to be patient and think more. Mistakes are what will make you better so if you fail that's fine, you just have to be perseverant. Anything is possible with any camera, you just need the will power to create things that you like and embrace the limitations.
Instant gratification in my opinion is hurting art. It’s making people just rely on autonomous picture taking machines instead of their brain and that's quite sad...”
Do you think that film is truly still alive, even in such a digital era?
“100%. For me personally, film has allowed me to express my creativity in a way that digital photography never did. It’s cliché but the process has really slowed me down and made me think more about the photos I take. The community side of it too is amazing. I’ve met some awesome people over Social Media, and having that platform to share your work and get feedback from like minded people is great. People moan about how people only shoot film because it’s ‘cool’ and they don’t truly appreciate the medium.. I say, the more the better - it means companies keep investing and making the film stocks I love to shoot!”
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“When I was younger, my Dad purchased all the equipment you need to start his own little darkroom, and we would develop his films and enlarge them together. I wasn’t that interested at the time and focused more on my other hobbies. When I got older, I went to Art School and purchased my first DSLR. This got me into photography, and I ended up going full circle and stealing my Dad’s film camera that was used to take the photos we developed together! After shooting a few rolls through it, I fell in love with the process and purchased my own - a Canon A1 about 4 years ago! However, it’s only really been the last 2 years where I’ve transitioned purely over to analogue.”
Can you tell us a little about these photos that you took at this beach?
“Sure! These were actually taken on a trip my girlfriend and I took to Cornwall, UK last year. We drove right down to the most southern point of the UK, and found some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen in this country. The water was so blue, and the perspective I had made for one of my favourite photos I’ve ever taken. We didn’t stop at this beach though, we knew of a different one a little further on so we carried on walking. This led us to the site where this picture was taken and an even scarier cliff face! Getting down to the beach was not fun, but was worth worth it. It’s called Pedn Vounder - 100% recommend it.”
Are there any quotes that you live by?
“Not really, no. I just like to take each day at a time. I guess if I had to choose, it would be the classic ‘the best camera is the one you have with you.’”
“Film gives me a brief moment of peace in my chaotic head from this chaotic world we live in.”
What made you first pick up a film camera?
“I was shooting digital for a long time and I was looking for a new challenge. I get bored quick and I needed something to feed my creative muscle. I really liked the feeling analog gives that you can’t replicate on digital. It also makes you stop and think before you take the shot. It slows you down. It gives a brief moment of peace in my chaotic head and this chaotic world we live in.”
What message do you try and convey with your photos?
“Live in the moment. Be yourself, don’t follow the herd.”
What techniques and effects, if any, do you use?
“The only technique/effect I can think of that I use is: I shoot with a flash and when it flashes I move my camera really fast. The picture turns out ‘moved’. But the subject is still in focus. Kinda found this accidentally, I don’t know if more people use this hahah.”
Instagram: @remy.db
]]>
Diego Villagra Motta told us about how he went from being a stylist and art director, to beginning a career in film photography.
The photo above is featuring @ximenamoral for @aguavivaswim x @lunasobrino
How did your career in film photography begin?
“I've always been shooting. I've always been that guy who likes to bring a little disposable to parties and shoot people that catch my attention, but I never thought of it as anything more than a hobby.
I worked as a stylist and art director, and I would get really annoyed when I busted my ass planning a look, or when I would have to work an editorial with a photographer that wouldn't listen to my suggestions and only cared about "his style of photo" (which is completely understandable). But then I said you know what, fuck it, I'm gonna do it myself. So about 4 months ago I bought a Fujifilm Power Shot for $10 and started to shoot.”
We asked Diego about his experience shooting film photography in Peru, and how he, as a photographer, breaks away from the traditional standards.
What do you usually like to shoot?
"Since I've been in the fashion industry in Peru for so long I already had an idea of who I wanted to shoot and why. I like people with stories and that have something to say. I always ask the models I shoot with not to pose, but to jump, throw a fit, do whatever they feel. I like to shoot something that evokes an emotion."
Can you tell us a little about the photo above?
"This shoot was something different since Flavia and Patricio are considered Peruvian celebrities and I wanted to focus on the idea of them being in love, and I truly felt it when I was shooting. PS. We ended with so many mosquito bites but it was worth it. Featuring @patoparodi18 @flavialaosu."
What is the film community like where you're from, and how do you fit in with that?
"In a country so reserved like Peru, shooting the misfits and the people that are a minority to the standards is a taboo. We, in this country are used the idea of only focusing on people for their physical apperance. But I wanted to shoot attitude and personality."
Our interview with Alexander Massek, a photographer and director based in London and New York City. Over recent years he has worked with a wide variety of brands, models, musicians, and artists.
Alongside his solo projects, Alex is also the Founder and Head of Photography at Ampersand Media, a London based photography, design, and videography company.
Can you tell us a little about this shot?
"This was taken shortly after lockdown in London. I wanted to capture the mood felt at the time while experimenting with double exposure. The use of double exposure is to represent the duality of emotions that I felt during this time."
How did you stay creative during lockdown?
"I went through a whole range of feelings over those few months, some highs and lows. I think photography gave me something to really look forward to, but subconsciously there’s a lot of unknowing during this time. It’s hard to say what the future holds, so in that sense a double exposure represents this feeling well."
Instagram: @riversideblues
]]>Dino Kuznik emphasises colour and composition, using photography as a medium to capture aesthetically unique moments. His work spans a wide range, from documentary, automotive, architecture, and landscape to environmental portraits and fashion. In 2019, Dino published his first photography book entitled “Shaped by the West” and his work has been exhibited internationally in London, Ljubljana, New York, Toronto, Trieste, Arles, and Paris. Some notable clients include Tyler the Creator, Tesla, Jay Versace, and Adobe.
How did you contact Tyler for the shoot?
"Usually, representatives or agencies reach out to me for shoots, but Tyler contacted me directly on Instagram and expressed his desire to shoot with me. He liked my style and asked me to photograph him like a "sharp edge prop," aka to position him into my photographs."
"We met up just a month before the release of IGOR in Palm Springs and shot at a few different locations I proposed. Tyler was super kind and thanked me for going forward with the project when we were introduced. He was open to all ideas I presented, and was a fantastic model. I must also add that he was an extraordinary stylist - as he took care of his attire. All in all, it was a very cool experience, and hopefully, we work together again in the future."
]]>Nina loves the feeling that analogue photography brings, forcing us to slow down and break away from the digital world, where everything if moving so fast. Her art seeks to capture the youthful and unique.
Playing with perspective is central to Nina's work, especially when it comes to photographing other women. This focus on the female gaze allows her to create beautiful, interesting portraits of women.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
"I’m 24 years old (time is running wow) and I grew up in Berlin. I’m that city girl with a heart for nature and silence. I’m a hippie by heart living in a very fast world."
Why do you shoot film?
"Shooting on film for me is more real and authentic, as you can’t check the photos on a display. I love waiting for the the rolls to be developed and I feel like this makes me appreciate the process and the outcome even more."
What do you usually shoot?
"I usually shoot women in a very natural way from the perspective of another women. I also love capturing still life and landscapes during my travels."
We asked Nina about several of her other film images, such as Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang, the ancient Chinese philosophy is a concept of dualism, describing how seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world.
Can you describe this photo?
"This series means a lot to me. To me, this photo represents Yin and Yang, the opposites that attract each other. Without light there is no darkness and without darkness there is no light. They are mutually dependent. Personally, my interpretation of Yin and Yang is neither male and female, but gender neutral. In water there is nothing but calm. The two identities can now become close to one another, melting together to form one unit."
The photo above was taken with a Canon 1000f and Kodak Portra 400 film. The meaning is all about being free spirited and becoming one with nature.
What is the meaning behind this shoot?
"The girl is Carlotta. She was one of the first models I ever shot. She’s has such a beautiful soul and owns this beautiful horse. Honestly everything happened spontaneously. She has such a free spirit and I was more or less documenting her way of being.It’s all about being free spirited and becoming one with nature."
If you had to go back and tell your 18yr old self one thing- what would it be?
"That’s a hard one! I would tell myself that everything will get better and that I better find some trust in myself."
Instagram: @chaudsoleil
Website: www.nina-menzel.com
]]>Having lived all her life between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra Mountains, she loves to accentuate the strong colours of the places she visits. You'll find blue in almost every photograph she takes - the ocean and the sky that she grew up between are constant features of her work. Her goal is to bring happiness through her photography and to help others forget any dark moments they may be experiencing.
Is there a particular piece of work that you're proud of?
"It’s very difficult to choose just one photo, but I can share the one photo that I first felt really proud of and gave me strength and motivation to push my creative side more and more. It is this one."
Why is photography important to you?
"For me, the importance of taking a photo is, and always was, the idea that someday, when I’m older and my memory may play tricks on me, I’ll have photos that will trigger my memories. Also it’s what I’ll have to show future generations about my life, the places I’ve visited and the moments I’ve lived during my lifetime."
What made you first pick up a film camera?
"I’ve always had an interest in photography and loved picking up old family albums and see all those memories, all taken with film cameras. Also, the first time I took photos was with a film camera when I was only about 8 years old, with a roll of kodak film. The look, the feel that I got with it, made me want to try it out later in life."
What message do you try and convey with your photos?
"The message in my photos is simply my vision of life, my way of seeing what is around me and what catches my eye."
What techniques and effects, if any, do you use?
"I don’t use any effects or specific techniques, but I can say that I use mainly SLR cameras and mostly Kodak film to get the look that I want."
How would you say your work is original, and stands out? What makes it different?
"This is a difficult question. What I can say is that I take photos of what surrounds me and what catches my attention, so when someone else sees my work will see throughout my eyes, my world, my reality. I think it’s the most unique thing that I can do, by being true to my instincts."
What advice would you give to someone starting film photography?
"I would advise anyone to be true to themselves, don’t give up and don’t stop learning by making mistakes. The more you dedicate yourselves to something, the better you will become. And most important of all, shoot for you and then if you want share with others, don’t take photos for others and depend on others to like your work. I guess that is the key."
Are there any quotes that you live by?
"'Be true to yourself', I can’t really think of a better quote to have in life."
]]>At the start of 2020, the world slowly began to sink into a Global Pandemic. Not only did this affect jobs, lives, relationships and everything in between, but it affected creativity. This was a time when all creatives may have felt a lack of energy, particularly due to the limitations which come with being confined to your home.
There's a claim that William Shakespeare wrote King Lear during quarantine for an outbreak of the bubonic plague. But what did modern-day creatives and photographers do when the pandemic forced them to stay at home?
Photographers in particular could not source subjects and models to shoot. The hustle and bustle which fuelled street photography was no more. And perhaps the overall motivation to shoot began to fade. Instead, photographers were forced to appreciate the simple and the mundane; sourcing inspiration from within. Around the world, photographers turned their lenses inwards to share intimate new visions of life in lockdown.
When you're limited in this way, you are forced to devise a coping mechanism. For many, this was transforming the way that they acted creatively. So with this, photographers began to idealise the simple, the mundane. The everyday tasks, activities and people that you connect with on a daily basis began to replace the foreign subjects, models, landscapes and bustling streets. A new form of creativity was born.
MFA have loved talking to film photographers about how they stayed inspired during this time, and what fuelled their imagination from the four walls that they were confined within. Despite the fact that a lot of our freedoms were restricted, so many creatives felt a sense of liberation, more than ever before.
One of these photographers was Victoire Valmary, who kindly shared the photos that she took during lockdown, showing how she still managed to capture beauty in a crisis.
Can you tell us a little bit about how you experienced lockdown?
"During lockdown there was nothing else to do but listen to music and take pictures, it was so weird."
I bet. It was such a strange time for us all. How did you stay creative during this time, can you tell us a little about these wonderful photos?
"Here I was using my Nikon fm with Portra 400 film. In fact, it was the first time that I used this camera and I couldn’t wait to see the reveal! Here I was shooting my sister and her boyfriend in our family home in the Pyrenees. Our house is super cute, I can only describe it as being untouched since the 70s haha."
"As we were in the mountains the light was amazing. I really began to notice every detail and I became so inspired."
"These photos are mainly memories, they weren’t planned or posed, which is why I love them. They show natural emotion. Whilst I found it hard to be completely isolated, taking these photos made it easier."
]]>Why do you choose to shoot film over digital?
"I love all types of photography but I'm just drawn to film more, I enjoy the process and I feel like I'm making images rather than taking them."
What inspires you?
"My biggest inspirations are other photographers (Rosie Matheson, Zed Nelson, Cian Oba-Smith, Dean Martindale, Alec Soth to name a few) and I also use Pinterest. I spend most of my days looking at photography."
What subject do you love to shoot?
"Definitely people. I love to shoot portraits, I just find it interesting and I like the idea of stopping time and capturing someone in that moment."
Do you have any advice for beginners?
"Don't give up when you get those blank rolls, it happens to all of us haha."
Is shooting film common where you’re from?
"It's not as common in Scotland as it is elsewhere, such as in the States or London, but it's starting to grow more now. I think that's the case with most places at the moment."
Can you tell us anything about this photo?
"This image is from a test shoot, I love to try and mix it up and try create something different or add a bit of my own style to an image."
Instagram: @andyxplores
]]>What made you first pick up a film camera?
"My best friend Dylan got one from his grandpa when we were in high school. We were so intrigued and would mess around and shoot our friends. I loved the process. Never looked back since!!"
I can see that you shoot a lot of models, is it fair to say that you prefer portraiture to landscape?
"I started off shooting landscape. I ventured into fashion / portraiture because I feel like it’s more challenging and engaging. I admire nature so much and when I’m in nature, I just want to enjoy it for what it is. Shooting people and fashion is fun because I love storytelling."
What message do you try to convey in your photos?
"I try to convey a sense of freedom and simplicity. We over-consume, overthink, over-compare, over-everything nowadays. I find so much beauty in the mundane. I love that a lot of life’s simple pleasures can be so accessible."
What are you passionate about besides photography?
"I’m passionate about community and people helping people. In such an individualistic and (at times) disconnected society, I think it’s really important to actively put others first. This helps us to live beyond ourselves and beyond our ego. I try to challenge myself to help whenever I can, and really take time to appreciate when others do the same for me."
If you had to go back and tell your 18-year-old self one thing - what would it be?
"I would tell myself to be young and relish every moment. Youth is a concept I hold so dearly — and though I feel pleased with where I’m at and where I’m going, I miss the carefreeness of childhood all the time. And that it’s ok to make mistakes, and that (in most cases), there is no right or wrong decision."
Instagram: @viviankimx
]]>