Personal one - Jason Ierace interview
Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your journey as a photographer? I’ve always had a deep interest in photography and anything visual, really. I first studied photography and film at art school, but my curiosity for travel and different cultures soon took over. For over ten years, I moved between Australia, Europe, and North America - chasing snow seasons, working, and exploring this big, beautiful world. Early on, I realised this industry is very much about who you know, and at that stage, I wasn’t ready to stay in one place to build those connections. I began working as a graphic designer, which quickly led me into an Art Director role at one of Sweden’s leading agencies at the time, Framtids Fabriken (The Future Factory).
After a few years overseas, I returned to Australia to focus on my real passion, photography and visual storytelling. Assisting some of the greats, I learned a lot about the industry, what to do, and what not to do. I truly believe that my travels, life experiences, and broad interest in design, form, and all things visual have helped shape me into a versatile and adaptable photographer with a genuine curiosity for people and place.
“ I think the people who will survive are the ones that adapt to the constant hunger for visuals
How would you describe your style or approach to photography? My style is very fluid and adaptable. Im fascinated by light and using it to tell a story or evoke emotion. I like to make things feel as though they haven’t been lit, it’s natural in some way. This, to me, helps capture life's unadulterated authenticity. Those elusive in-between moments, and the genuine essence of the subjects which is the basis for my visual story telling.
When did you first hear about this exhibition? I first heard about this exhibition from its conception and I have been a part of it every year since. I think its a great thing for our industry and community as a whole.
What’s your strongest memory of the exhibition? The exhibition has grown from strength to strength each year… the amount of people that are exhibiting has probably tripled since its started, and I think thats awesome as the calibre of prints being sold is exceptional.
“ You don't need alot of lighting to achieve beautiful things
How did it feel to see all the works displayed together on the wall in past editions? Mind blowing. There is always amazing prints, and it really makes me feel like Im a part of something special to have something hanging on the wall next to peers in the industry who I admire.
What does it mean to you personally to be part of this collective exhibition? To me it’s a celebration of our industry as well as a Xmas party for all those people who work for themselves. I love that everyone has a print and all of it goes to a charity. It’s not about the person, but the work on the walls.
What do you hope audiences will take away from experiencing your work here?
I hope the audience will take a print home with them. : ) Every little bit helps the cause behind the exhibition
How do you see the photography scene today, especially with younger generations coming through? The industry and scene today is still, I think, as it always has been. It’s always been competitive, there have always been new people coming through and It’s ever evolving, with trends and influences in the way people light something or the way we have to shoot coming and going.
I think the people who will survive are the ones that adapt to the constant hunger for visuals in all the various formats and stay on top of the changes as the world, not the photographers, dictate it.
Has the exhibition influenced or inspired your perspective on photography in any way? It's the same whenever I see any work from my peers… it makes me want to shoot more and better work.
What projects have you been working on recently (If you can tell)?
Is there a future project you’re particularly excited about and would like to share?
Im working on little motion piece featuring my son and his obsession with surfing… stay tuned.
What inspires you right now—whether in photography or beyond?
My kids inspire me. Everything I do is for them. I love showing them new things and taking them to new places. My son has discovered the love of the ocean and surfing and this drives me every day to help feed his obsession.
What equipment are you currently using, and why?
I predominantly use Canon for my work, Profoto for my flash and any constant lights that fit the job. I also love the fuji GFX system and for higher res jobs and the x system for the walk around candid moments
How does your gear shape your process or the kind of results you aim for?
To me you need to have the right gear for the job. And the right gear is the stuff that just works when you need it. Its reliable and its doesn’t take up brain space to make it do what you want, in order to achieve the results you need.
Is there a photographer, work, or experience that has been especially influential in your path?
I really do admire my peers and the constant way everyone seems to adapt with what’s going on. But I do have to mention I did have the fortunate opportunity to work and assist the great Sam Haskins many years ago before he passed away. He was in his late 70’s I think when I worked with him but the way he used bare bulb lights and flash to bounce and achieve simple yet beautiful lighting… the same as he did for most of his working life… its always stuck with me… you don't need alot of lighting to achieve beautiful things.
What advice would you give to amateur photographers visiting the exhibition?
Take it all in… Some of the prints on the wall may or may not be to your liking.. as photography is very subjective, but everyone who has something hanging on the wall in that room has something to offer and is shaping our industry daily.
Keep the ball rolling and check Jason's website.
