When writer, editor and illustrator andrea bennett asked for some new author photos to go with her forthcoming book of essays, Like A Boy But Not A Boy, I jumped at the chance to visit her in Powell River and shoot some film by the ocean.
There are two things I’m always working toward when I take your photo: surprise and recognition. This might sound a little contradictory but hang with me for me a minute. If I do my job right, a photo can cut through noise and clutter and whatever else is going around you, show you the heart of things. I want to remove the distractions and let you see what I see. That’s the surprise. The recognition comes when you see just yourself, as you are, wearing your own clothes in your own places. Fundamentally you.
It’s why I say “fine-art feel” and not fine art. It’s not about squeezing you into some existing idea of what makes an artistic photo or a worthwhile photo. It’s about capturing the best in you so you can see it and hold on to it. Holding onto the best in ourselves is not easy. I believe a good photo can make it a little easier.
Author photos are simple and low-pressure, and also a great chance to make beautiful portraits. I really love author photos.
