Q~ Justin, please tell our readers how it is that you came to pursue photography?
A~ I have to credit my parents and grandparents in helping to develop my love for visual art. I grew up around illustration, graphics, drawing, painting, photography and various other art forms. My early experiences were surely formative in my aesthetic leanings and I feel that they’ve given me a strong understanding of the elements and principles of design. After some time in university and what feels now like an artistic sabbatical, I rediscovered my creative side in my early twenties. I’ve always had a particular interest in photography. My feeling is that photographs can share a more present and a more compelling story than can other art forms. I completed formal studies in digital photography and imaging in Barrie, Ontario in 2007 and have since had various personal and professional experiences in the field.
Q~ Your images show strong composition with an emphasis on clean lines and asymmetrical balance. How is it that you decide on framing your images?
A~ Composition is often first in my mind. Focus, exposure and other photographic techniques are certainly important. However, without composing an image in a compelling way, an otherwise strong photograph can lose a great deal of impact. You mention asymmetrical balance – while I try to capture each image in its own way, I feel that asymmetry sometimes allows me control of visual elements and can add tension, drawing the viewer into and through my photography
Q~ With your work ranging from architectural to portrait, and your talent crossing over to each of these subjects, do you have a preference as to what it is you would like to focus on?
A~I’m most moved by images of people in their natural environments and of creative or interesting architecture. In turn, my work often leads to these areas of photography.
Q~It appears that many of your images are from abroad. Is travel a motivating factor in your desire to take images or are you more inspired by an inner need to record your life and view of the world?
A~My desire to travel and a certain need to share my perspective are, I think, married in many of my photographic pursuits. I learn a great deal in traveling and I feel this allows me growth as a person. This in turn helps me to grow artistically. You ask an interesting question because it is difficult for me to separate the two in my mind. My photography leads me to more focused contemplation of the places I visit and the people I meet. It allows me to not only capture moments in my life but to share them in a way that feels true.
Q~Are there any projects you are currently working on, or future projects you have slated to work on?
A~My current project is a series on important historical sites of the War of 1812. This has been an interest of mine for some time and, as this year is the bicentennial anniversary of that war, I’ve become especially interested in pursuing this idea.
Q~ Finally, are there any Canadian photographers you follow. How about international photographers?
A~ Two photographers that I find inspiring are Donald Weber, a Canadian, and Zoriah Miller, an American. You can view their work at the links below. I’ll let their images speak for themselves.
Donal Weber: http://www.donaldweber.com
Zoriah Miller: http://www.zoriah.net
We would like to thank Justin for his time and his work can be seen HERE.
