Why make a photograph?

Given the opportunity to use a Zenit SLR camera as a child I quickly appreciated the joy that comes with capturing moments in time. Many of our memories are made real again when we see a photograph. Images enable us to share and live the experiences of others and better appreciate our environment. Later, as a teenager that camera also became my free pass to gigs by my favourite bands. Photography opened doors.

Looking through a viewfinder creates an extraordinary connection between the photographer and the subject, revealing beauty everywhere, in both the extraordinary and the ordinary.

Why use film?

Sticking with the analogue process of film and darkroom gives the artist total immersion in the adventure towards a final image. Creative decisions arise at every stage as the image is produced, on the lightbox, the enlarger, in the developing tray, toning tray and even in the mounting and framing. The magic of a seeing the image emerge never fades. Nor does the pleasure of finding extraordinary elements in a scene that was far from obvious in the viewfinder. Above all, darkroom photography is, for me, about creating something lasting from something fleeting. The proven longevity of a classic darkroom print, gives real meaning to the role of a camera as a time machine - freezing a moment to last generations.

Why monochrome

It is about reducing complexity. Stunning details emerge from the noise in monochrome. The play of light and the point that caught the artist’s eye become more central. A photograph is a simplification of life, freezing a moment and constraining the viewpoint. A monochrome photograph just does this with additional intensity. It helps me cut through the noise of life by appreciating what I see in monochrome. It brings out elements I would otherwise ignore.