Northamptonshire, England
www.davidswailes.com
What's it like living in England? It seems as if a lot of photographers are emerging from there.
Living in England is good as there is a lot of creativity here. More so in places like London & Brighton, but as I'm not exactly close to either I have make a day of it if I want to go to a gallery or something creative. I haven't seen as much of the United Kingdom as I'd have liked to, so my plan this year is to find some great locations around the UK.
Your photos have a real definite film look to them. How much of that look is planned? Do you go for effects?
I like to experiment with as many different cameras and film stock as I can, so that if I have an idea that needs a certain aesthetic, I know what tools I need to get this result. It's taken a lot of experimentation with film for me to feel confident in using it, but now I think I have found a working method that enables me to plan the look of my images in advance.I do like using certain effects on my images, usually both in-camera and in post production. I like the idea of combining new and old technology.
How often do you go out to shoot? How planned are your shots?
Nowadays, I'm more selective about what work I want people to see, and also what I shoot. When I was finding my own style of taking pictures, I used to shoot roll after roll of film. Now I have built myself a visual database for reference of what can be done, I'm more selective of what I shoot.I do try to shoot as much as I can, but as I'm building my portfolio up in genre of fashion and portraits, I'll often hold out until I've got a great idea, then go ahead and shoot it.
What kind of advantages do you have being a formally trained photographer over someone who is not?
I'd say people skills above all, as the tutors at The University of Gloucestershire have really encouraged me to get out there and start interacting and shooting. Secondly, another advantage is being taught the importance of the concept and ideas behind your work, as before I would just shooting anything. So as mentioned before, I now often wait for this instinctive feeling or idea before I start shooting.
Any plans after graduation dealing with photography?
I don't have any jobs secured as of yet, but ideally I would like to move to London, assist for a while and get to know a few people, rather than jumping straight into the freelance world. Working freelance in London is tough for photographers, so I think I'll wait until the time is right and then jump into more of an independent role.
