Photographer Andrew Smith has a style that is quiet, reflective, even philosophical. He’s a musician by trade, a middle school music teacher, and from a family of musicians. His photographs echo the quiet contemplation and focus required of his profession. His photoblog, Visual Realia, is a journey through the mind and world of a thoughtful artist. Recently I had the pleasure to talk with Andy, about his life and his art:
Chantal Stone: What are some of the things you like to photograph?
Andrew Smith: I probably have too wide of a range of topic choices for the good of my site. I tend to like color, black and white, duo-tones and infrared. I think that the variety of ways of expressing the image is part of what interests me. Part of it for me is not only the photo itself, but also the process. I like thinking about the shot, shooting it, and working with it afterward.
CS: Why and when did you start your photoblog?
AS: Started in spring 2006, entirely for my needs. Having a full time job, kids, etc., there is every excuse in the world NOT to go out and shoot. Having a blog where one hopes to post most days forces me to go out and photograph. No excuses. Self motivation.
CS: What styles of photography are you attracted to?
AS: This probably explains why my own photography is so scattered. I find each style brings interest in its own way. I guess photos that "express" something beyond the literal are my favorite.
CS: Is that what you try to do - express something beyond the literal?
AS: Sometimes, but certainly not always. I'm currently working with macros of music themes, and I don't know that I'm reaching for anything beyond in those, although you may have noticed the quotes [on my photoblog]. I do enjoy trying to find something that is somehow related.
CS: I was going to mention that. What made you start adding the quote with the images?
AS: That goes back to the process. Selfish! I like looking for relevant quotes, almost in a puzzle-like fashion. Photos evoke words and thoughts, and sometimes quotations add to those thoughts.
CS: How would you describe your body of work?
AS: Body of work...an attempt to see life close up, far away, and just attempt to appreciate it.
It's too easy to ignore the "little" things around us, and my photography is [an] attempt to force myself to see what's around me.
If I'm lucky, maybe some of the shots will do the same for a viewer or two.
Article comments
1 - Sebastian
Great article Chantal, I really enjoyed this interview. I'm amazed at how you're able to seek out great new talent.
2 - D'oh
Thanks for bringing this to us all Chantal, a most excellent read and plenty of food for thought and contemplation.
From this ex-gonzo to you...
the Tao of D'oh.
3 - Howard Dratch
Thanks again, Chantal. Another interesting article and heretofore unknown links.
This morning I had a cataract removed from my right eye. Shooting will be a lot easier not having to change to the left eye to focus. Now, what to do with all these film cameras when the world is becoming so digital. Andrew Stone has not only made fine pictures but kept up with technology.
4 - Chantal Stone
Thanks for the comments :)
Howard--glad to hear you'll be out shooting again! And don;t worry, I'm still a film-lover. You should check out Filmwasters.com....you'll find plenty of like-minded people there!
D'oh-- Hey! so glad to 'see' you.....I've been absent from the BC circuit for too long.