Tim Francis, Photographer / Video Director
I was working as a photography assistant.
Were You Self-Taught Or Did You Study?
Basically, I was self-taught. The class I took had older students in the studio and darkroom who knew the fundamentals about certain techniques, but it was nothing at all like going to a technical school for photography.
Were You Self-Taught Or Did You Study?
Basically, I was self-taught. The class I took had older students in the studio and darkroom who knew the fundamentals about certain techniques, but it was nothing at all like going to a technical school for photography.
What Type Of Photo Shoots Get You Most Excited?
I embrace the excitement of mystery and uncertainty when I shoot. A few years ago, I became friends with photographer Philip Lorca DiCorsia, and he spoke about leaving space within a session for things to just happen.
Who Are Your Favorite Photographers?
Hiroshi Sugimoto, William Eggelston, and Irving Penn. There are certainly more that I love but these photographers just seem to pull me in with their images.
How Do You Pull Out What You Want From The Models That You Photograph?
I used to give more direction when I first started, now I find that allowing the model or subject to Make their own decisions, to try different things, leads to a more successful photography shoot.
If You’re Going Somewhere For Vacation And Relaxation, Do You Still Bring Your Camera?
I always bring a camera when I’m going somewhere because I’m always taking photographs. Making photographs fascinates and enriches me.
You’ve Been Considering Directing Your Own Film. Tell Us About That, And Is Directing Something That You’re Planning On Eventually Doing As A Career?
Film was my first love. I came from a family of film lovers, actors, and directors. I wish I hacn’t listened to certain people who told me how impossible it was to make a film! I know I have a few films in me right now, and since the pandemic, I’ve had the luxury of time to write down some film ideas that I want to pursue.
What Advice Would You Give An Aspiring Photographer?
My advice is to be a continuous student of your art, all art in every medium. There’s a great documentary of Jean Michel Basquiat looking at books and magazines while he’s actually painting. Also, to get in the practice of taking photographs even when you don’t want to, many of the best /assets/images have happened when I wasn’t into shooting that day.
What Inspired You To Get Into Photography?
I love movies, and to me photography is close to that medium
How Long Have You Been Shooting?
Several years. I started taking photographs of my girlfriends when I was in high school. My father had a few cameras that he never used, and I just started playing around with them.
Where Do You Get Your Inspiration When Preparing For A Photo Shoot?
I’m always looking at art in all mediums, and I attend galleries, films, and museum exhibitions regularly to get inspiration.
I See You Do A Lot Of Black And White Photography, Why?
I like black and white for its graphic qualities, the way it distills the composition of a photograph, pairing it down to its essentials
Do You Ever Use Film?
I don’t use film at the moment, I’m using the diptych format quite a lot in my work right now. It allows me to create these shorthand narratives where my work in fashion and fine art photography merge.
There’s Been A Lot Of Changes Since Social Media And Digital. How Do You Stay Relevant With Your Photography?
That’s a good question. I think it has to do with being true to yourself. I can be inspired, informed, or moved by a million photographs that are on social media without losing who I am. I don’t let social media control my vision.
Name 5 People That You Would Love To Photograph?
Lea Sydoux, Zoe Gravitz, Eva Green, Rooney Mara and Fei Fei Sun.
Name One Legend That Is No Longer With Us That You Wish You Could Have Photographed?
Evelyn Nesbit, she was considered the first super model in America circa 1900.