My interview to photographer Michael Epps

Lowell Tautchin

I don’t know personally Michael Epps, but I had already seen his work on some magazines when we started chatting on Facebook. I am passionate about his approach to fashion photography and in particular I started to appreciate his portraits. I asked him then to be able to post some of his works on my blog. The first model is quite known to the world of the fashion addicted people,  Evandro Soldati that probably you know as part of Lady Gaga’s video for her song “Alejandro”, and then this post continue with some new faces, simple images, but very intense, which I like a lot. Below my interview to Michael, who lives and works in New York, but dreams of a future in Paris, perhaps as a filmmaker, considering his love for cinema and his studies related to that world at the University of NY.

Enjoy.

How did this all begin? And first of all how did you begin takin’ pictures?
I’ve always had a love for visual images, but I bought my first camera while attending film school.
When did you decide that this life had to be your work?
In the last 3 years I realized that this is my art, and I have no choice in the matter. I have to express myself in this way, for the rest of my life.
Can you define your style?
I don’t reallty set limits on myself in that way, but I would say I’m always looking to capture a moment in time.
But can you identify which are the main characteristics of your work?
Beauty, purity, character, sensuality and the complexity of masculinity.
In your opinion what makes a wonderful fashion photographer?
The best fashion photographers are always great portrait photographers first. Only then can you pull back, and make the clothes truly speak.
And what makes an amazing model?
A great model is always a good actor. Someone who can transform themselves in a moment, with no inhibitions, or limits of self expression. Someone with soul.

Alexander Johannsen

Mark Cox

Where do you find ideas for your work?
Ideas seep into my head from everywhere. I’m always looking through magazines, and editorials, but I would say classic films are a constant source of inspiration.
Who do you admire? Personal heroes?
Everything begins and ends with Nelson Mandela. I love him.
Most important moment of your career so far?
Being a part of the Vogue Italia photo exhibition in Milan, last fashion week was a definite highlight…and of course I’m always thrilled when my work is recognized or published.
What do you think about the fashion industry?
I love the amazing creativity to be found in the industry. I do feel the seasonal pace of things can be a bit too much to take in sometimes, and wonderful things can be passed over.. I wish there was more ethnic diversity in editorials, and on the runways, since there is great beauty to be found everywhere, and in everyone.. I do love the wonderful things happening with Menswear though.
Which is, in your opinion, the future of fashion photography?
I think the future is clearly digital. The results are immediate, and in the fast paced world of fashion, we have all become used to instant gratification. I believe film will always have a place, as I think the warmth and magic of it, still gives a distinct look, and feel from the sometimes coldness of digital. However technological advances in the newer pro cameras are rapidly bridging that gap.

How the web has influenced everything?
The web has made everything much more accessible now. Images appear super fast on blogs everywhere, and can disapear just as fast. I think it can be too much sometimes, and great work is sometimes lost. The web has also given everyone a platform and voice, which can be great, when coming from a place of knowledge. Bad when it does not.
Dreams and plans for the future?
Like all artists, I dream of agency representation, and gallery exhibitions. Those are the dreams I plan to make reality. Getting to shoot Clement Chabernaud would also be a dream come true.

Per saperne di più http://www.michael-epps.com/.

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