Photography

Andrea Jeremiah’s ‘Kaa’: A Thrilling Glimpse into Wildlife Photogr…

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

The cinematic landscape is set to be enriched with the release of ‘Kaa’, a film that delves into the life of a wildlife photographer, portrayed by renowned actress Andrea Jeremiah. Directed by Nanjil and scheduled for a March 29, 2024 release, the movie promises to be a thrilling exploration of the wilderness, brought to life under the production of John Max’s Shalom Studios.

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Immersive Storytelling in the Wild

‘Kaa’ stands out not only for its unique setting in the dense forests but also for its compelling narrative that centers around Andrea Jeremiah’s character, a dedicated wildlife photographer. The inclusion of veteran Bollywood actor Salim Ghouse, known for his impactful antagonist roles, adds depth to the storyline, promising a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue. The film’s backdrop and characters aim to offer audiences an immersive cinematic experience, highlighting the challenges and beauty of the natural world.

Behind the Scenes

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The technical prowess behind ‘Kaa’ is notable, with Arivazhagan and Elisa spearheading the cinematography and editing departments, respectively. Their expertise is expected to elevate the visual storytelling, capturing the essence of the wilderness and the intensity of the characters’ journeys. The ensemble cast, including Marimuthu, Kamalesh, Akshitha, Naveen, Moonar Subramanian, and Arjun Singh, further enriches the film, bringing a diverse range of talent and perspectives to the project.

Anticipation Builds for the Release

As the release date approaches, anticipation for ‘Kaa’ continues to build. The film’s exploration of wildlife photography through the lens of a thriller is a refreshing narrative choice, promising to engage audiences with its portrayal of the beauty and peril of the natural world. With a strong cast and a dedicated production team, ‘Kaa’ is poised to be a significant addition to the cinematic offerings of 2024, offering viewers a glimpse into the untamed wilderness and the stories it holds.

The upcoming release of ‘Kaa’ represents not only a milestone for Andrea Jeremiah, who takes on a role that challenges and showcases her versatility, but also for the film industry, as it brings forward stories set against the backdrop of nature. The film’s unique premise and dedication to authentic storytelling are set to make it a must-watch, inviting audiences to explore the depths of the wild through the eyes of a passionate wildlife photographer.

Alan Schaller Elevates Street Photography: Launches ‘Metropolis’, …

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

Photographer Alan Schaller, renowned for his monochromatic urban landscapes, has unveiled his latest book ‘Metropolis’, capturing the essence of urban isolation through his lens. Schaller’s journey, transitioning from music production to photography, demonstrates his adeptness at expressing stories of city life, focusing on the interplay of light, shadow, and geometry. His work not only showcases his talent but also his commitment to elevating street photography by supporting emerging talents through the Street Photography International Collective (SPi).

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Making Moments Memorable

Alan Schaller’s foray into photography began on the London Underground, where he captured the transient moments of city dwellers. His growth as a photographer led him to explore various metropolises, including New York and Tokyo, where he honed his skills in capturing the fleeting, often overlooked moments of urban life. Schaller’s approach is deeply rooted in pre-visualization and observation, techniques he generously shares with aspiring photographers through his online tutorials. These insights not only reveal his creative process but also serve as a guide for those looking to navigate the complexities of street photography.

Metropolis: A Visual Journey

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‘Metropolis’, Schaller’s latest publication, is a testament to his minimalist aesthetic and his ability to find beauty in the mundane. The book is a collection of images that portray the urban landscape as a place of isolation and anonymity. Through his lens, Schaller transforms ordinary architectural elements into striking compositions, emphasizing the contrast between the individual and the sprawling urban environment. His work invites viewers to contemplate the role of the individual in the modern metropolis, making ‘Metropolis’ more than just a photography book but a visual commentary on contemporary urban life.

Empowering the Next Generation

As a co-founder of the Street Photography International Collective, Schaller is passionate about promoting and supporting unrecognized talent in the photography world. SPi has become a platform for emerging photographers to showcase their work, offering them the visibility they might not have achieved on their own. Schaller’s commitment to the community extends beyond his photographic achievements; it’s about creating a legacy that fosters growth, learning, and appreciation for the art of street photography. Through his efforts, Alan Schaller is not just capturing moments; he’s shaping the future of street photography.

Alan Schaller’s ‘Metropolis’ is more than a collection of images; it’s an invitation to view the city through a different lens. By highlighting the solitude and beauty found in urban environments, Schaller encourages us to find meaning in the overlooked aspects of daily life. His dedication to his craft and his community serves as an inspiration for aspiring photographers everywhere, proving that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to leave a lasting impact on the world of photography.

Cute photos that explore the chaos and drama of girlhood

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

London-based artist Emma Alvin’s The Sun is Just Another Star is a joyous photo dump packed with sad girls, clowns and coquettes

4March 2024

The first time I encountered Emma Alvin’s work she sent a giant Bichon Frisé dog made of tulle strutting down the halls of CSM as part of her 2022 graduation performance, The Sun is Just Another Star. Adding to the theatrics was a person in an ostrich suit with hula hoops swinging around their neck and a cast of passed-out fairies decked out in sparkly wings and tutus. Fusing “fun, play, cringe, drama and chaos”, the show was a delightful concoction of internet theatrics brought into the IRL – “I had been studying the psychology and unlying social dynamics of sad girl online culture coupled with the concept of cuteness,” reflects Alvin, who’s immortalised the show in an upcoming photo book.

From its bright pink cover to the dazzling snapshots of star-spangled actors and Tumblr-coded girlies in face paint, The Sun is Just Another Star is a joyous time capsule that explores the nostalgia of girlhood memories through the frenzied layout of a teenage scrapbook. Featuring photography by art director and CSM alumni Harry Freegard, leafing through the book is akin to scrolling through the Instagram feed, with each page akin to a post or photo dump that may or may not be related to what came before it. “When you flip through the pages, I think this makes complete sense,” she agrees. “There is no one defining story.”

“I am drawn to exploring the fine line between common sense and insanity, and how that links to social powers and collective consciousness,” says Dame. “This project is rooted in the philosophy of clowning. A celebration of the beauty in failure and the sacrifice of self-pride (cringe/embarrassment) in the pursuit of connection to others (laughter).”

Drawing parallels between the historical Pierrot and online figures such as the sad girl and coquette, Dame explores themes of online girlhood and performativity through these “cute but psycho” archetypes, further illustrated through a selection of poetry written by Nina Kihlborg and Hedda Röök, who created a Tumblr page with digital snippets and coquette quotes from across the internet, which they collaged and twisted as dialogue for the performance.

The Sun Is Just Another Star – Emma Dame — Courtesy of Emma Dame

“My entire life has been signposted by female Pierrot types, Cassie from Skins, Lana Del Rey – sad and hopeless romantic clowns. The project is based on this notion, and celebrates it,” she expands. “Taking these subjects offline reveals that contemporary aesthetic movements such as the ‘Sad Girl’ or ‘Cute but Psycho’ cosplay on apps like TikTok and Tumblr are merely modernised conceptions of traditional theatre play like the romantic clown mime and puppeteering.”

Alvin has since gone on to event design for partygoers and create balloon art for TikTok videos commissioned by Balenciaga, which proves there’s serious demand for fun frivolity. “The theatre piece was all about the cute and zany. I think all my work looks to this dynamic in some way or another and how it relates to icons of both high and low culture,” she concludes. “My work is influenced by whimsical (absurdities) as well as new media, and the way that it uses storytelling and dramatics as important social cues for communicating. I am taking fun, nonsense and play highly serious.”

The Sun is Just Another Star is out now

Olympic Medallist Louis Smith Dives into Wedding Photography: A Ne…

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

From gymnastic mats to wedding venues, Louis Smith, Britain’s most decorated male gymnast, has embarked on a surprising new career path as a wedding photographer. Smith, who clinched silver medals in the pommel horse at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, alongside a bronze at Beijing 2008 and a team all-round bronze in 2012, has transitioned from an athlete to an artist behind the camera, offering a range of photography services.

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From Olympic Podiums to Photography

Retiring from gymnastics in 2018 at the ripe age of 29, Smith has not shied away from the spotlight, showcasing his talents on The Masked Singer in 2021, which he won, and participating in other reality shows including X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing. Despite his previous entertainment endeavors, Smith’s latest venture into wedding photography marks a significant career shift. His website, which provides packages ranging from £700 to £1400, promises to capture the “unique essence” of matrimonial celebrations, aiming to create “timeless memories.”

An Athlete’s Artistic Journey

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On his website, Smith shares his journey from Olympian to photographer with a candid bio, expressing his surprise at this career pivot. His commitment to capturing the magic of wedding days through his lens highlights a deep passion for storytelling and artistry. Smith’s goal is to craft images that tell the unique story of each couple’s love, an ambition that underlines his dedication to his new profession. Moreover, his venture into capturing significant moments has already seen him photographing events for notable personalities, including JLS member Aston Merrygold’s tour.

Embracing New Beginnings

Living in Peterborough with his girlfriend Charlie Bruce and their daughter Marley, Smith is fully immersed in his new role as a photographer. This career transformation showcases his versatility and ability to adapt, proving that it is never too late to pursue new interests and professions. As Smith continues to capture special moments for couples, his journey from an Olympic medallist to a wedding photographer serves as an inspiring tale of reinvention and the pursuit of passion beyond the world of sports.

Photographer Female Pentimento is helping the internet access new worlds

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

The first knee-jerk response to this imagery is often to question how it’s made. Nathaniel, of course, works with digital doctoring, using post production in tandem with photography. This combination has always offered a way for the artist to “really reify” the worlds they want to inhabit. “I think so much of my ambition with my creative projects is about deepening my sense of hope and possibility,” she says. “Because I feel so often that you can get so mired in the day-to-day that it’s easy to lose sight of things, but, you know, you can create a world or an image that’s representative of a place that you want to live.”

Another common response to her work is more intuitive. The work Nathaniel shares is often met on Instagram with comments that describe how much the image, accompanying caption, or both, have resonated. Provoking such a reaction is an accolade many work up to over decades, but photography is actually a relatively new pursuit for Nathaniel, picked up while travelling – though creativity has been a long-running thread, in childhood, through to studying painting as an undergraduate.

The introduction of photography came with the reappearance of other themes in Nathaniel’s life. One was spirituality. Growing up in the Christian church Nathaniel found it difficult to tap into this part of herself within the structures of organised religion; “I really just wrote it off for a long time [thinking] that I’m not a spiritual person, or that’s just not for me.” A shift has transpired in the past five years, driven by a profound reconnection to the natural world. This pull to nature and wildlife directs and informs the images they make, sometimes in distressing ways; the ecological crisis is a recurring focal point for Female, prompting images that are increasingly apocalyptic.

OnePlus Photography Awards 2024: ‘People underestimate how amazing photographs taken with mobile phones can be’

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

This article is sponsored by OnePlus OPA. Find out more here

Now in its fourth year, the international competition champions smartphone photography. Judge Mati Machner reflects on how the practice has democratised image-making

Like many photographers starting out during the late 1990s, Mati Machner’s introduction to the medium came via an analogue point-and-shoot camera. At the time, he found the comparatively small, simple device to be something of a mystery. Yet to master ISO, aperture or shutter speed, a young Machner began snapping away in the hopes of understanding more about the world around him – often taking images twice, just in case.

As Machner’s interest and skills in photography evolved, so too did the technology available to him. His first digital camera, a Nikon D40X, offered far more settings – not to mention pixels – than its analogue predecessors. Now a Hasselblad Master and globetrotting wedding photographer, he shoots with some of the most advanced kit on the market – and yet is still drawn to a camera he can hold with one hand.

“The gap between FE compact digital cameras and smartphones is shrinking every year,” the photographer explains. “In fact, it’s become so small that most people probably wouldn’t even notice a difference in the results between the two systems. It’s incredibly satisfying to see that smartphones can now produce such high-quality and serious images, creating memories for oneself, family, or friends that are worthy of printing and displaying on the wall or in a beautiful photo album.”

Machner’s interest in smartphone photography, and his belief in its ability to democratise access to image-making, has led him to become a judge in this year’s OnePlus Photography Awards (OPA). The annual photography contest, launched in 2021 in partnership with the International Photography Awards (IPA), is a key part of OnePlus’ commitment to the development of mobile technology that empowers users to unlock new possibilities in photography. This year’s edition of the awards is now open for entries under the theme Make the Moment until 30 June.

“I’m thrilled to be on board this year as a jury member for the OPA 2024 and to see all the potential from all the applicants,” says Machner, who is joined in his role by Hasselblad Master, alongside IPA jury members and OnePlus imaging product experts. “I think a lot of people underestimate just how amazing photographs taken with mobile phones can be. This is a chance to really showcase that.”

Regardless of social status, many people can now ensure that they preserve everything important, fun, emotional and relevant for the present and future generations

In some ways, it is easy to see why smartphone photography has traditionally been overlooked by the photography industry. Image-making is a skill that takes years to develop, and competition for work in the field has perhaps never been higher. When some spend years saving to purchase a new lens, a level of suspicion towards those working with a device carried in their pocket is understandable. Machner and the team behind OPA, however, see things rather differently.

“I believe that everyone on this planet should have the right to create memories,” he says, “and with the rapid development of smartphones, this is becoming increasingly possible. Regardless of social status, many people can now ensure that they preserve everything important, fun, emotional and relevant for the present and future generations.” It is this question of social status that is perhaps the most important.

Crowded Metro Station
©Hhesher Sun. 3rd Prize , ‘City Voices’ Category, OPA 2023 (shot on OnePlus 8T)

Over the last 20 years, smartphones have made photographers of millions of people across the world, and the rise of social media has allowed their images to be shared with unprecedented speed and reach. Though imperfect, these technological advances have offered people the chance to tell their stories through images, and to capture the important moments of their lives in ways once reserved for those with the necessary financial or social capital. According to Machner, this democratisation of image-making is not a cause for concern over increased competition, but an opportunity to be inspired by the many different ways people see the world.

In fact, the photographer is so confident in the importance of smartphone photography that he is now considering introducing OnePlus’ newest phone, the OnePlus 12, into the workshops he teaches regularly across Europe. He hopes to demonstrate to participants that with the OnePlus 12 – developed in collaboration with Hasselblad and featuring a “professional-grade” camera system – they can “achieve remarkable results without needing a €10,000 camera setup”. “Give me a smartphone, and I’ll confidently shoot the next portrait session with it,” he says.

He is similarly confident about the quality of images he expects to see from this year’s OPA, winners of which will receive a prize of $10,000 (£7,800) alongside a 2024 OnePlus device and the opportunity to collaborate with OnePlus in the future. In the past the awards have drawn over 50,000 entries and announced 55 winners, whose images have been displayed in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, as well as at IPA events in New York.

The Hangrang Valley
©Samyak Jain. 1st Prize , ‘Infinite Nature’ Social Media Group Category, OPA 2023 (Shot on OnePlus 9 Pro)

In 2023, winning images included an enchanting moment of celebration captured during Chinese New Year festivities, a compelling and tranquil image of an ice cave taken at Tibet’s Xiangla Glacier, and a landscape of India’s Hangrang Valley, which delicately portrays the vastness of the region’s mountains. This year entries are welcomed from anywhere in the world, from both OnePlus users and users of any other smartphone, and should be submitted in one or more of three categories: Light and Shadow: Optical Game; Colours: Magic Palette; and Faces: Emotional Mirrors.

Reflecting on his and OnePlus’ hopes for the 2024 awards, Machner asks: “Who would have thought a few years ago that truly serious portraits or landscape photos would be possible with a smartphone?” He goes on to discuss the experiences of smartphone users today, who have simplified ISO settings and shutter speeds at their fingertips – a stark contrast to his own early experiences with image-making. “Since then, I’ve watched as digital cameras have evolved, with each year bringing more megapixels and better autofocus systems,” he says.

Yet for Machner, and for OnePlus, image-making is about more than technology – it’s about telling stories and expressing emotions. This year’s OPA theme, Make the Moment, speaks closely to this, with the aim of encouraging everyone to capture and elevate the unique experiences of their daily lives. Through this, both parties hope that smartphones will help more people to access and enjoy photography. “Photography has taken me to places I probably would never have been,” Machner says, “and it has allowed me to look into the souls of many people, which is priceless.”

The 2024 OnePlus Photography Awards is open until 30 June. Entries can be submitted here.

I won silver at London 2012 and Rio 2016.. now I’m a wedding photographer

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

FOUR-TIME Olympic medallist Louis Smith has swapped gymnastics for wedding photography as he embarks on a new career path.

Britain’s most successful male gymnast, 34, claimed silver medals in the pommel horse at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games after a bronze at Beijing 2008.

Louis Smith won four Olympic medals and is Britain's most successful male Olympian — Louis Smith won four Olympic medals and is Britain’s most successful male OlympianCredit: Getty Images – Getty

He was honoured with an MBE back in 2013Credit: PA:Press Association

He also won bronze in the team all-round event in 2012.

Smith, who received an MBE 11 years ago, retired from the sport in 2018 at the age of 29, but was back on screen in 2021 when he won The Masked Singer.

He also has past experience auditioning for X Factor in 2008, before he won Strictly Come Dancing four years later and finished runner-up in The Jump in 2017.

But it is behind the camera that he has now begun a new venture as a wedding photographer.

The Mail have discovered the website for his business – which offers “portrait shoots, headshots and a range of photography services for businesses and events”.

And the bio reads: “I’m Louis Smith the Olympian and I’ve managed to find myself typing this bio trying to figure out how I explain how I ended up here.”

His website, which offers packages from £700 to £1400, states: “My goal is to capture the unique essence of your special day, creating timeless memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.”

It goes on to add: “I invite you to join me on this artistic journey, capturing the magic of your wedding day through my lens.

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“Secure your spot now to benefit from my current pricing and let’s create extraordinary memories together.

“I look forward to the privilege of being part of your special moments and crafting images that tell the unique story of your love.”

Louis Smith unmasked as Carwash as he wins The Masked Dancer

Smith’s Instagram account confirms that he shot photos of JLS member Aston Merrygold‘s tour last summer.

He lives in Peterborough with girlfriend Charlie Bruce, 30, and daughter Marley, 3.

multiple photographs vibrant hidden mosques across turkey’s most remote villages

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

the sanctuary: an ode to turkey’s spiritual past

Multiple’s The Sanctuary is a visual ode to the forgotten religious structures of Turkey’s charming historic past. Tucked away from main travel routes are remote, unexplored villages, which in in the last 20 years, have perished and evolved, with remnants of architectural heritage narrating notes of a forgotten past. First, the older, crumbling mosques were removed to make way for newer and often much grander religious spaces, then, as the economy began to falter, villagers began migrating to larger cities in pursuit of employment. In this photographic series, Multiple (also known as James Kerwin) set out on a journey across approximately 18 towns, visiting over 40 villages in search of these hidden gems. ‘You’ll see that each sanctuary invites you to appreciate its understated beauty while providing a window into the nation’s past. They are a poignant illustration of the richness and diversity of the Turkish culture,’ he shares.

all images by James Kerwin (Multiple)

james kerwin uncovers five-centuries old mosques

Traversing all but two of Turkey’s seven vast regions over two years, the photographer steered away from conventional travel routes on his search for these structures. Although, many of those abandoned mosques have been destroyed by the weather over time, as Multiple found, many still stand present throughout the country. Some of them are over 500 years old, entirely constructed of wood, or vibrantly painted, others seemed to be weathering and crumbling. Some were found destroyed by landslides, others standing strong yet repurposed by locals as storage or shops. Regardless of their condition, he found them to be rich in color and ornamentation. ‘Normally, I had no idea about the structure’s condition. And often I’d travel by plane or drive for hours only to find a wrecked structure, or worse nothing,’ notes Multiple. The series was launched as a 20-image collection as seen here, alongside a set of on-location tutorial videos.

for the photo series, James Kerwin travelled across 18 towns and over 40 villages in search of these hidden gems

as it is the directional focus of prayer, the qibla wall is often the most ornately decorated area of a mosque

a three-lobed arch, cupola, and painted flower motifs that continue throughout the mosque

“I’m spoiled with my monochrome camera sensors – color sensors don’t really do it for me, or at least, it’s a fight”

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

Alan Schaller’s photography journey began while he was still pursuing a career in music production. However, he decided to express his creative vision through the camera lens rather than a mixing desk.

Metropolis

Interview with Alan Schaller — (Image credit: Alan Schaller)

Alan Schaller’s Metropolis book elevates cityscapes to an art form, playing with light and perspective. It features 150 black-and-white images from some of the most visited cities in the world. Metropolis is published by teNeues, priced £75 /$100.

With a precise sense of light and composition and a keen eye for capturing fleeting moments with a narrative, Schaller soon established himself in the industry. Starting with a series of images taken on the London Underground, he later photographed people on the streets of cities such as New York and Tokyo.

As one of the co-founders of the Street Photography International Collective (SPi), Schaller is passionate about promoting talented and unrepresented photographers. He enjoys sharing his knowledge with aspiring photographers through his YouTube video tutorials, giving an insight into various techniques. We met up with Alan to find out how to capture that perfect moment and also spoke to him about the inspiration behind his new book Metropolis, published by teNeues, in which Schaller uses minimalistic images of urban architecture to visualize the idea of being isolated and lost in the modern world.

Interview

Alan Schaller

Alan Schaller is a London-based photographer who specialises in black-and-white photography. His work is known for incorporating elements of surrealism, geometry and high contrast while exploring the realities and diversities of human life. Alan is the co-founder of the Street Photography International Collective (SPi) and also an ambassador for Leica cameras. His work has been published and exhibited internationally, and he has collaborated with prominent brands such as Apple, Nokia, Huawei and Philips. In addition to his photography, Alan has written articles for The Independent.

Street photography is known as an unpredictable genre but how unpredictable is it in your opinion?

Yes, it’s unpredictable – but I think the more experienced you get, the more you can try and, not necessarily predict, but pre-visualise what might happen. I tend to try and control as much of the image as I can. There are controllable factors, for example, where I am standing to frame the scene. I always ask myself what could happen – or what is it I want to see happening? As I progressed through my career, I’ve learned what I want and what I don’t want. It helps cut down the randomness of the street and gives me a better chance of achieving a decent picture as well as some sort of consistency. For example, let’s say we’re on the London Underground, there’s a lovely stairway and the lighting is perfect. I’ll stand there and wait for a person to enter the scene. If the wall is white, I am waiting for a person wearing dark clothes, if the wall is dark, I will wait for someone wearing light colors to arrive.

Have you ever missed capturing the moment? Or do you always carry a camera with you?

I used to joke that the only places I wouldn’t go with the camera were in the sea or in the shower, but now I have a waterproof one, so I can do that too. Sometimes, I go out and don’t even plan to shoot but it ends in capturing stuff that happens. However, it’s not a burden, I love it. I’ve always said that I’m extremely lucky that I’ve made this into a career and if it wasn’t, I would still be looking for these things.

Being with non-photographers on the street is a slightly different matter. I always have a Kindle in my bag to give them something to do in the meantime, and to show them that I’ve thought of them. My camera is always there, always on – it’s not just for show. I keep it on and pre-focus to 1.2 metres. I identify the scene first and then I do something I call fishing. It’s like being a fisherman instead of a hunter. I drop the line in and wait for the big fish, whereas a hunter would stalk around. It’s always worth having the camera there.

What are the kinds of things that trigger your photographic instinct?

I remember when I was younger I was on a date and this lady was not very happy with me because I was obsessed with this table next to us. It was interesting and had really nice lighting, so I feel I’m aware of everything that’s going on around me. It’s hard to explain but once I start seeing it, I am focused and driven to it.

I use a lot of everyday objects in my photography, so there is a lot that can make me stop and trigger the thought that there is a photo here. I think it’s a skill to observe and analyse the surroundings like that. That’s what has become clear to me as I am getting into fashion photography now. However, sometimes it’s funny what gets me to press the shutter button.

When I was in India, we were going to a spectacular temple, but the best scenes I captured were on the way there and on the way back. It’s the most unexpected times, the little moments that happen. The same happened in Paris at the Eiffel Tower. I was at a hotspot from where everyone photographs the tower. I turned around and there was a staircase so I took this picture. It has nothing to do with the Eiffel Tower but it’s my favourite shot that I’ve taken there.

What was your first camera when you started the journey?

One of my first cameras was a Canon 70D. It was a cheap option but it had too many features. Then I made the decision to get a Leica – for me, that’s the ultimate camera brand. I’m interested in things that are well-made, regardless of what it is.

I couldn’t really afford one at the time but managed to get enough money to buy one. It was such a crazy thing to do. I’d just got a mortgage and then spent like £9,000 on a camera and lens for a hobby. I felt sick, like actually physically sick. I didn’t open the box for a couple of days so I could still take it back. I was worried and wanted to earn the money back.

I thought I could help with a few weddings – but I wasn’t thinking about making a career. But it turned out to be probably one of the single best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. After that, things started going quickly for me and it was all organic. I was doing as much photography as I could while I was still working full-time in music. I bought a Leica M Monochrom Typ246, then an M10 monochrom and now I’m working with the M11 Monochrom.

What is the best part of photographing with a monochrome camera?

I’ve got used to the Leica M’s stylish shooting. I’m spoiled with my monochrome sensors – color sensors don’t really do it for me, or at least, it’s a fight. I’m used to this way of shooting. Having the tonality, the black and white look but also the highlight retention is what I like. It’s a huge thing because I do a lot of backlight shooting, so it gives me different options on how to expose a scene.

On digital, you have to nail this and under-expose a lot, whereas film reacts a little differently. When the subject is backlit, you get some lower levels of contrast compared with digital and when a scene would suit that more than I am doing it. It’s not essential but it’s the things to consider to fine-tune the look I want.

Would you say that it is essential for a photographer to be in total harmony with their equipment?

Some people say the camera isn’t important, that it’s all about the photographer, but I think this is a stupid way of looking at it. Ask a professional chef if being dropped in a random kitchen is good for them, probably not. Anyway, it’s that kind of thing. Yes, I can produce my look on any camera, but I’d much rather have my setup because I understand
it better. For example, with my 24mm lens, I understand its characteristics, when it will flare, when it won’t and I know how to focus without really thinking about it. I’ve shot with the 24mm and 50mm for about six years now and sometimes I’m still surprised by some things, so I am still learning. Learning what it’s all about and bonding with your gear makes a difference in capturing the final moment.

What was the visual aspect you were aiming for when creating the images for your new book Metropolis?

It has a particularly strong style. The book is themed around urban isolation, so I chose images that expressed this feeling and atmosphere. I wanted to convey the idea that we’re more connected than ever, through things like the internet, but at the same time less connected. Big cities especially can be very isolating places. I felt that many people can relate to being in a busy place but feeling alone and that everyone feels this but pretends to be fine about it.

I used to do this thing where I printed about a hundred small images and I put them in a shoebox. I’d put them all out on the floor, look at them and group them into sets. Eventually, one of those sets was five images that had been shot over a year between them showing a lot of black negative space. I hadn’t shot those on purpose like that, it was just an idea, so I pinned these up and I was like, ‘Right, I’m going to try and make another five’, and so on. A friend of mine came around and I asked him what he thought. He said that these pictures look like people dwarfed by the world around them. They look tiny, it’s like they’re being oppressed by the architecture. I was like ‘Thanks! That is it!’ I felt that I could identify with the message.

So how much were you involved in the layout of the book?

I don’t think I’ve talked about this but the layout and curation were done in a special way. We created a tonal graduation throughout the book. It starts off with the darkest images, ends with the lightest ones and, in the middle, it’s kind of grey. The publisher teNeues said that they don’t think anyone has done that before. I don’t know much about bookmaking honestly, but I’m learning. There are so many things around photography to learn, like doing exhibitions or choosing printing paper but also the business side of it, licensing, contracts and more. It’s a never-ending process and I love it.

Do you have any tips or advice for photographers who want to work on a longer series or even a book?

It’s important to have a theme that’s relatable. I think photographers often make work for other photographers. It’s like ‘Look at the silhouette I created’ but the average person won’t care about this silhouette. But if you use a silhouette to tell a story that’s interesting to the viewer, they can understand and appreciate the technique.

There is a saying that one single picture can say more than a thousand words and I like the fact that you don’t need to always understand everything. Even though a lot of those pictures for the book were taken with a photojournalistic edge or with the intention of telling a story, they still just scream something on their own.

Hopefully, this is a piece of work that, 50 years from now, I can look back on and be like, ‘Yeah, that is how I felt back then’. However, maybe next time, I’ll do something a little more cheerful.

Schaller’s camera history

Canon EOS 70D

Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246)

Leica M10 Monochrom

Leica Monochrome M10 — (Image credit: Leica)

(now) Leica M11 Monochrom

The Leica Monochrome M11 is the camera Alan Schaller is working with at the moment (Image credit: Leica)

PHOTO 2024: Global Photography Titans Illuminate Melbourne and Reg…

Mar 4, 2024 By Admin in Photography

John Berger’s assertion that ‘perspective is not a science but a hope’ rings true as PHOTO 2024 takes over Melbourne and regional Victoria. This international photography festival, running from March 1 to 24, showcases over 150 photographers, including giants like Rennie Ellis, Nan Goldin, and Malick Sidibé. Their work, under the theme ‘The Future Is Shaped By Those Who Can See It’, promises an enlightening journey through diverse visual narratives.

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Spotlight on Photography Legends and Emerging Talent

PHOTO 2024 not only celebrates established icons but also shines a light on contemporary artists pushing boundaries. From Ryan McGinley’s ‘Yearbook’ project in Shepparton to Karla Dickens’ self-portraits in Werribee, the festival spans a vast array of subjects and styles. Yhonnie Scarce, Tony Albert, Carmen Winant, and Anne Zahalka are among the talents featured, each offering a unique lens on society’s pressing issues, from indigenous identity to women’s rights.

From Postponement to Triumph

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Initially set for 2020 but delayed due to the pandemic, PHOTO International Festival of Photography has rebounded strongly, returning to its biennial format. Its previous edition, themed ‘Being Human’, laid the groundwork for this year’s expansive showcase. With venues like ACMI, RMIT Gallery, and Latrobe Regional Gallery participating, PHOTO 2024 is set to be a pivotal event in Australia’s cultural calendar, offering audiences a profound exploration of humanity and vision.

Engaging Audiences Beyond the Gallery Walls

PHOTO 2024 extends its reach beyond traditional gallery spaces, engaging with audiences in innovative ways. The festival’s diverse venues, including community arts centers and state libraries, ensure wide accessibility. For those interested in delving deeper into the festival’s offerings, Edge of Elsewhere’s exploration at Glen Eira City Council Gallery is a must-visit, featuring 11 Melbourne-based photographers tackling themes from climate change to reproductive technologies.

As PHOTO 2024 unfolds across Melbourne and regional Victoria, it invites us to reflect on the power of photography to shape our understanding of the future. Through the lenses of both legendary and emerging photographers, the festival underscores the importance of vision in navigating the complexities of the modern world. As audiences traverse this vast photographic landscape, they are reminded of the transformative potential of seeing, feeling, and imagining anew.

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