Personal one - Ben Sullivan interview
Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your journey as a photographer?
My name is Ben Sullivan, I’m primarily a fashion photography. My dad was a photography lecturer at TAFE and we had a darkroom at home. I can remember being a kid and developing photos in the darkroom. Later on I studied photography at University then assisted for a bit.
How would you describe your style or approach to photography? I’ve always tried to take a more documentary style approach to fashion photography. Less posing, more doing stuff or doing nothing at all!
When did you first hear about this exhibition? When you (Sergio) emailed me about it.
Is this your first time participating, or have you been part of it before? I’ve been part of the Sun Studios This Time it’s Personal exhibitions for a long time. This is the first with Lunar.
What’s your strongest memory of the exhibition? My memories of it are the wide variety of personal work that people are doing and seeing lots of people that I hadn’t seen for awhile.
How did it feel to see all the works displayed together on the wall in past editions? I love seeing printed photography and seeing such a variety in one place is great.
What does it mean to you personally to be part of this collective exhibition?
I’m excited to see everyone personal work.
What do you hope audiences will take away from experiencing your work here?
That’s up to them.
How do you see the photography scene today, especially with younger generations coming through?
I’m not too sure, I don't really follow much of what is happening in photography. I like some stuff I see but I don’t really look at social media and I don't know where else photography exists these days.
How has your photography evolved from when you first started until today?
Photography is more about memories for me now, whereas it used to be about trying to create something new.
What inspires you right now—whether in photography or beyond?
My photography has always just been about taking photos of things I find interesting when I happen to see them.
What equipment are you currently using, and why? Canon R5 for work because I like not having to worry about focussing when I’m taking 1000’s of frames in a day. A Mamiya 7 for personal because it’s the highest quality camera I can be bothered lugging around. I’d rather shoot 8X10 but it’s not really practical.
How does your gear shape your process or the kind of results you aim for?
For me the subject matter is more important than the equipment. As long as you’re comfortable enough with your gear and it doesn’t get in the way of taking a photo then it’s good.
Is there a photographer, work, or experience that has been especially influential in your path? Pierre Toussaint. I wouldn't be a professional photographer without having assisted him.
What advice would you give to amateur photographers visiting the exhibition? Take lots of photos. It’s a numbers game!
Thank for your time, see you on the 20th.
Check Ben's web for more.
