@expiredbren
What inspired you to specialize in film photography, and how does it influence your process compared to digital?
I originally started shooting film with a dirt cheap Voigtländer Vitoret, and back then Gold only cost about $4 a roll, so I mainly shot film since it was fairly cheap. Now that that’s no longer the case, I’ve mainly stuck with film because I like the look of film stocks like Portra, Gold, and Ektar. My digital processing skills are horrible so I could never replicate that look even if I tried. I also thoroughly enjoy the process of developing and scanning my film at home.
2. Any specific projects or moments that have impacted your development as a photographer?
My most significant project would have to be capturing the wildfires that have destroyed thousands of homes and millions of acres in California since 2018. I lost my town and home to such a fire just as I was beginning my film photography journey. Because of that, I would say that wildfires gave me a significant motivation to shoot early on.
3. How has living between Paradise, California, and Hannover, Germany shaped your photography?”
Beyond my aforementioned wildfire experience in Paradise, it’d be worth noting that growing up in the Sierra Nevada / Cascades gave me a great appreciation for nature. By and large this has led me to hiking and shooting landscapes. Living in Germany has given me the opportunity to meet quite a few photographers and be part of a community. In doing so, I have learned countless lessons dating back to when I was just a beginner.
4. What role does social media play in your career?”
Social media has been a fantastic means of networking and meeting people who share the same passions as me. Because of the people that I have met through social media I have had the chance to go on some great group trips and form lifelong friendships.
