Personal one - Chris Cuffaro interview
Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your journey as a photographer?
My name is Chris Cuffaro and I’ve been a photographer for over 50+ years now. Based out of Los Angeles but have shot all over the world. I love photography and grateful for the life that it has given me. I’ve never had an easy day, but I’ve always had fun.
How would you describe your style or approach to photography? My style… simple, honest, real and fun.
My approach is “old school”… it’s about the subject and NOT the gear, ideas or style. It’s not what you shoot, but who you shoot.
When did you first hear about this exhibition? When my hero Sergio/Lunar reached out to me a couple months ago. I was so excited to get asked to participate and I’m bringing my best to support!
Is this your first time participating, or have you been part of it before?
This is my first time. And I hope not my last! I love the photography community in Sydney and have SO many friends. I’ll do anything to support.
“ “I’ve never had an easy day, but I’ve always had fun”
If you’ve attended in past years, what’s your strongest memory of the exhibition?
Sorry, I haven’t. My bad. Please forgive me.
How did it feel to see all the works displayed together on the wall in past editions? I did not see, but I love group exhibitions with talented photographers! It’s always fun to see the talent, the ideas, the creativity and fun.
What does it mean to you personally to be part of this
collective exhibition? I’m honored. To be asked and included in a Sydney photography exhibition is the best! Makes me feel like I’m part of the community. Makes me smile. #grateful What do you hope audiences will take away from
experiencing your work here?
I just hope they like what I share. I always like to share my passion.
How do you see the photography scene today, especially with younger generations coming through?
First… there are more “photographers” than ever! Second… being a “photographer” is one thing, making money and a living is another. Third… A lot of talent, a lot of passion. But not a lot of plans! Last… I think that most of what is created these days is content and not photography.
Has the exhibition influenced or inspired your perspective on photography in any way?Ever since my first Avedon exhibition I went to when I was 20 in Berkeley, CA I have found ALL exhibitions good or bad as inspirational. I always love going to see something new, see something special and to get to know the photographer. Again, I’m old school… You wanna know a photographer, just look at their work.
Let the photos do the talking.
“ “Photography is NOT a job or a career!!! It’s a life!”
What projects have you been working on recently (Ifyou can tell)? Just been shooting friends who need photos. Working on getting back to Australia for summer. I have the BIGGEST project ever I want to do on this next trip. Like really BIG!!!
Is there a future project you’re particularly excited about and would like to share? Not a whole lot. More exhibitions! Also working on two TV series. AND I will always shoot my friends who need help. Always busy doing the work and having fun.
Looking back, is there a past project you consider a milestone or turning point in your career? Tough question, SO many. But the first one that comes to mind was my first shoot with George Michael for the FAITH video. That shoot started a year of shooting with George Michael and opened so many doors in the music biz. Got to see and do more than I ever dreamed of. AND I made my first trip to
Australia all because of the FAITH Tour.
How has your photography evolved from when you first started until today? I always find this tough to answer. My style has always been simple. No matter what I shoot. Again, I’m old school… I grew up worshiping Avedon, Penn & Bailey. I ripped them off from day one. I just love simple in everything. Music, life, art, photography and business. Keep it simple!!
What inspires you right now—whether in photography or beyond? UGH! That’s tough to answer cuz right now, as I answer this I would say not a whole lot. I’ve been looking for inspiration for the last couple months. Haven’t shot
much. Looking for a spark!!! Help me!
:-)
What equipment are you currently using, and why? I’m a Hasselblad guy! Been using
them since 1983. I’ve owned just about every type of camera at one point, but since I started with digital it’s only been Hasselblad. I love the way it feels in my hand. I love the results! I love the quality most of ALL!
How does your gear shape your process or the kind of results you aim for? I’m not fancy. I’m not into perfectly sharp, perfect exposed and perfectly perfect. SO not me. My gear is simple like me. I just
need a quality exposure and images. The rest I do in post production.
Is there a photographer, work, or experience that has been especially influential in your path? When I moved to Los Angeles I got a job and the best B&W lab in town… PHOTO IMPACT! Still the best to this day. Working there for 3 years I got to meet the legends and icons!
Helmut Newton, Herb Ritts, Matthew Rolston, Greg Gorman, Bruce Weber, Paul Jasmin and so many more. Those days were amazing cuz I got to know them, was able to ask questions, get business advice, looked at their film/proof sheets and show them my work. Those conversations made me who I am today!
What advice would you give to amateur photographers visiting the exhibition? Go easy! Photography is NOT a job
or a career!!! It’s a life. My mentor said it best… “Shut the fuck up and shoot!” Practice makes improvement. Set goals, be curious, do the work, shoot as often as you can and have fucking fun!!!
