30 Questions With Photographer Sherry Christensen

I’m excited to continue with the project where I ask photographers to answer 30 questions about themselves and their photography, and to share some of their work. My next guest is a very active member of the Negative Positives Photography Podcast Facebook group and of the film photography community. Not only has she been a guest on the Negative Positives Film Photography podcasts, but she has her own film photography podcast: Embrace The Grain. She is also the organizer and mastermind behind the 2019 and 2020 Frugal Film Project. Seriously, where does she find the time??

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to Sherry Christensen.

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I’ve never met Sherry in person, but I’ve been lucky enough to work with her on the Frugal Film Project in 2019 and am again working with her on the 2020 edition of the Frugal Film Project. As the leader of the project, Sherry organized a group of international photographers who used cameras costing less than $50 to prove that great film photography can be had on a budget. I hope you enjoy her interview as much as I did.

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: Sherry Christensen. Alberta, Canada.

Q: How can people contact you?

A: https://rr1photography.com, ruralrouteonefilm and embrace_the_grain.

Q: If we’ve met, how do we know each other?

A: Sam & I met on the Negative Positves Facebook group when I started putting to together the Frugal Film Project. Sam was one of the last people to join the project and it has been a real pleasure getting to know him! Pretty sure after the project ends, we still remain good photography friends... even if only online.

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Q: What is your earliest memory of taking a photography?

A: I can remember my Grandma bought me a Kodak Tele-Instamatic 608 for Christmas, it was around 1978, you know the ones with a flip flash bar? I was super excited that Christmas Eve... and we arrived home Mom showed me how to load it. The next morning we got up to exchange gifts and Mom picked up my camera and took the very first frame... of me, then handed it over. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take photos or open gifts... tough choice for an 11 year old, can’t exactly remember my choice these days... but I do have the photos and the camera!

Q: Of the cameras you currently own, what is your favorite (you may choose one of each format if applicable?

A: Sam! How can I truthfully answer this? I do know I prefer 35mm SLR over medium format. Why? Convience. Easier to load on the go. Fits my small hands better. But I have been pushing myself to use more medium format. For 35mm... I am not brand loyal, I love the one in my hand with film in it. I have a slight “collection” and tend to load 3 of 4 camera bodies, throw them on the seat of the pickup truck seat and go. As for a favorite... I love them all.

Q: Is there a camera you’ve always lusted after and hope to acquire someday? What makes you desire this camera?

A: There were two... let’s just say I no longer have G.A.S. To be honest here... I lusted after a Nikon F6 for years... until the right deal came along.

Q: Is there a camera you no longer have that you miss?

A: No. Before you think I am hoarding them; I have sold some cameras and I have donated a few to educational programs... but some will never be sold. Like my Nikon FE the first film SLR I ever bought.

Q: What type of photographs do you most enjoy taking (portraits, landscapes, street, etc) and why?

A: I am a landscape junkie... there is nothing better than getting in the truck with Snoopy (my big white dog) and just going for a drive on an old dirt road. Sometimes I don’t have to go far to find a place to photograph! I also love to document our family life... random snapshots can be priceless treasures.

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Q: While most of us shoot both digital and film, I believe we all have a tendency to prefer one over the other. What do you prefer and why?

A: It depends on what I am shooting and what is the best tool for the job. I do prefer film, but sometimes digital is the better choice. The way I see it... why be a snob... it is all photography. A good photographer can make a great image on ANY camera, even an iPhone.

Q: How often/much do you shoot photographs (rolls per week, month, etc)?

A: It varies... sometimes on where and what I am doing. But if I try and average it out, probably two rolls per week, 90% of which is c-41

Q: Do you prefer to photograph with other people, or would you rather shoot alone? Please explain.

A: While I do enjoy shooting with others, I tend to shoot alone. It is the time I do something for myself to relax and forget the stress of daily life.

Q: What is your favorite black and white film right now and why?

A: I have to say this is a tough question... I am still exploring the monochrome world. I have had really good results with Ilford HP5 and I am a total rookie when it comes to processing black and white film. Black and white is more difficult for me to shoot... because I really struggle to “see” the photo in monochrome, but I have been working on shooting more of it. How else can I improve and grow as a photographer if I don’t challenge myself?

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Q: What is your favorite color film right now and why?

A: Right now, I can honestly say my favorite is Kodak Gold 200! After using it for the Frugal Film Project I have been exploring just how versatile it really is, not to mention readily available and affordable.

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Q: Complete the following sentence: “I am a photographer because…”. What do YOU get from photography?

A: I am a photographer because I can’t draw! Seriously... I always wanted to create images, could see what I wanted to capture and could not put that down on paper. The camera in my hand allows me to do so.

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Q: Best experience while taking photographs?

A: I can say the absolute best experience from photography is probably going to sound very mundane... documenting my Grandson’s childhood! I have photos from infant right up until now and since he is used to a camera around he doesn’t mind being photographed!

Q: Most emotional experience while taking photographs?

A: “Grandma, can I take your picture?” those words melted my heart last summer...

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Q: Worst experience while taking photographs.

A: Card failure at a wedding! Fortunately I was prepared... hiring a second shooter and swapping out cards frequently. But I still lost 60% the wedding ceremony photos I had shot that day. The bride never noticed in the end, but I had a major panic attack. I don’t enjoy wedding photography to begin with, but to have all of that work go “poof” for no reason was a horrible feeling!

Q: Tell me about something related to photography you want to learn.

A: I would like to learn traditional darkroom printing in the future. I’m not sure I would do much of it, but would still like to learn the techniques.

Q: Tell me about something NOT related to photography you want to learn.

A: I am currently re-learning the acoustic guitar... it sounds really bad!

Q: What does your family/loved ones think/feel about your photography?

A: They are used to the insanity...

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Q: What is the last photography related book you’ve acquired?

A: This may sound funny... but I normally check them out of the library via inter-library loans. If it is a book I know I will refer back to, then I buy it. The last purchase was Vivian Maier Color

Q: Name one of your favorite accounts on Instagram and explain what draws you to this photographer.

A: I really don’t have an actual favorite... I’m a scroller. But the images that do capture my eye are always given a like or comment. There is no cohesive thing drawing me to the image, either I like it or don’t.

Q: Have you ever sold or have thought about selling any of your photographs? Would you do it again? Any advice for others thinking of selling their photographs?

A: Yes, I have sold prints, have a “zine” and I have also been published in print magazines. Would I do it again? Yes... but not to be “rich and famous” because in reality I just want enough to fund my photography. My advice is you are thinking of selling your work, sit down and think over the reason you really want to do it, then do a little research of what is involved and ask a lot of questions. There is no such thing as a stupid question.

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Q: Are there any photography related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: The Frugal Film Project is one I am currently working on. It involves a small global group who shoot one roll of film per month. But wait... there’s more! They must use a camera that costs less than $50 and they must shoot the cheapest locally sourced film they can find for one year! We will be wrapping up the project in January 2020.

Q: Are there any non-photographic related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: Not really, work, family life and photography pretty much keep me busy.

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Q: Where is your favorite location to shoot (specific place or type of place)?

A: Basically, I really enjoy shooting locally. There is a lot that can be photographed in nature, plants, old buildings, animals... and wide open big blue skies!

Q: Is there a specific object you’ve found yourself photographing over and over again? If so, why?

A: I’m drawn to old farm sites and buildings, like barns for example! Or old homesteads. Sadly, most are being torn down because they are falling down. Something about capturing what time and the elements have done to these once busy farms speaks to me.

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Q: Favorite thing about the photographic community?

A: The pictures! Always and forever it will be the photos.

Q: What do you think the photographic community is missing?

A: The photographic community is pretty diverse, there are the serious folks, the hobbyists, the traditionalist and the lomographers. I’ve probably missed a whole bunch of other types and communities... but what I think is missing is the way to find where YOUR community is. Since I live in a very rural area, the local photographers are mainly digital... I don’t really fit in. So I had to look for others like myself and turned to online communities, by doing so I was able to grow, learn, share and find my tribe.

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Q: Biggest photography related pet peeve?

A: The old “mine’s better than yours” attitude. Nikon is better than Canon. Digital is better than film. This just frosts my cookies... no one system or format is better than the other, embrace them all, open your mind to allow growth and become a better photographer.

Q: What do you hope your photographic legacy will be?

A: The photo albums left behind full of family snapshots. Maybe a few prints hanging on a few walls too.

Q: Who is the one person (living or dead) that you’d like to photograph and why? Describe the type of portrait you’d shoot, and the message you’d want this portrait to communicate about this person.

A: Honestly I am not a people photographer... but there is one person I would love to have in front of my lens. Sadly he is no longer with us... but his passing is what spurred me to photograph my family more. It would be my Brother in Law... he passed of cancer five years ago and we have less than ten photos of him. Makes you think doesn’t it?

Sherry is an extremely talented photographer who is loved and respected by the film photography community.

Head on over @embracethegrain on Instagram and show Sherry some love.

30 Questions With Photographer Chris Aragon Etzel

If you’ve caught the first installment of my “30 Questions with…” project, you remember that I’m asking photographers I admire to answer 30 questions about themselves and their photography. I also ask them to share some of their work. I’m hoping you find their answers and their photography as interesting as I do.

In this installment, I would like to introduce you to Chris Aragon Etzel (or simply Aragon, as he’s know in our household).

I first met Chris in August 2018 at the Film Photography Project Walking Workshop in Findlay Ohio. We were staying in the same hotel and met up with each other at the bar after the Friday meet and greet at the Jones Mansion. While grabbing a late bite to eat, Chris and I, along with some other photographers staying at the same hotel, discussed cameras, film photography, and the gear we brought to shoot at the weekend workshop.

Chris and I met up the next morning and hung out most of the day at the Walking Workshop.

Chris visiting the Film Photography Project’s merchandise table (you always need more film). (Photo by Sam Warner)

Chris visiting the Film Photography Project’s merchandise table (you always need more film). (Photo by Sam Warner)

After the Saturday workshops concluded, Chris and I joined some other photographers for a “short” (a “15 minute walk” turned into an hour long trek) photowalk to the fairgrounds, where a steam equipment show was taking place.

Chris (second from the right) and I (second from the left) met at the Film Photography Walking Workshop. (Photo courtesy of Mark O’Brien)

Chris (second from the right) and I (second from the left) met at the Film Photography Walking Workshop. (Photo courtesy of Mark O’Brien)

After the Film Photography Walking Workshop, Chris and I stayed in touch and became great friends. We talk on an almost daily basis about photography, music, and life in general. Chris introduced me to the joys of good rangefinders, proper beard care, the various ways to greet a friend using “bro” (e.g., “Bro-nica”, “Brocycle”, “Brotholomew”, etc) and bulk rolling Kentmere 400 film.

Here’s what Chris has to say about his photography.

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: Chris Aragon Etzel. Memphis, Tennessee.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: How can people contact you?

A: The best way to contact me is through my website at www.aragonseye.com. I’m also on Instagram at @aragons_eye.

Q: If we’ve met, how do we know each other?

A: Sam and I met in Findlay, Ohio in August of 2018 at the Film Photography Project’s Walking Workshop.

Q: What is your earliest memory of taking a photograph?

A: When I was in my early twenties, my dad gave me his Sears T.L.S. with a 55mm lens and a roll of Kodak color 200. I quickly found out there was $0.99 Black and White film and bought a few rolls. I used it a few times and put it down. I didn’t pick it back up again until 2014 – like 20 years later.

Q: Of the cameras you currently own, what is your favorite (you may choose one of each format if applicable?

A: 35mm: Canon F1n 120mm: Holga 120 (Although my Bronica ETRS is a close second)

Q: Is there a camera you’ve always lusted after and hope to acquire someday? What makes you desire this camera?

A: Well, I really want an Epson R-D1 as it was the first digital rangefinder, but for film cameras, I want a Nikon 28Ti. It has such a beautiful Bauhaus look and the analog dials on the top are just sexy. It gets mixed reviews because it’s slow and has a tiny viewfinder, but who cares. It just looks so cool.

Q: Is there a camera you no longer have that you miss?

A: Yes, my Fujifilm Klasse. It was a fantastic camera and instead of really using it, I kept it as a “backup” camera. That was my mistake. It was a perfectly capable point-and-shoot that had a decent set of manual control dials, a quiet operation, and the amazing Fujinon coated lens. I still regret selling it.

Q: What type of photographs do you most enjoy taking (portraits, landscapes, street, etc) and why?

A: If you view my website, you’ll see I’m kind of all over the place, but I do like to shoot photos of textures and signs. I work in Downtown Memphis, so I like taking pictures of the aging buildings and other interesting street objects. Sometimes I do some street photography, but mostly it’s “parts” of buildings or lamps, signs, letters, numbers. I also enjoy statues and cemeteries.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: While most of us shoot both digital and film, I believe we all have a tendency to prefer one over the other. What do you prefer and why?

A: This is a fantastic question! I prefer the process of film photography. I like being part of my images; loading, shooting, developing, scanning, sharing. This is a very tactile experience for me. I also enjoy the softer look I get from film. When I shoot digital, I’m usually ISO 1600-3200 auto so I get the softness, although it’s not totally the same. But I really, really love my Fujifilm digital cameras. I’ve had an X-Pro1, X100T, and now an X-T20. I love the Fujinon glass and the Fujifilm in-camera emulations.

Q: How often/much do you shoot photographs (rolls per week, month, etc)?

A: I tend to shoot in batches and then I don’t shoot for a while. I’ll decide to go somewhere and make photos and take 3-5 rolls with me fully intending to stay until I’ve shot all the rolls. I have a lot of cameras, so I also take them out to shoot them and review them, which lends to this burst-mode of shooting. I also load my own film, so when I run out, I’ll shoot digital until the new stuff comes in.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: Do you prefer to photograph with other people, or would you rather shoot alone? Please explain.

A: I really enjoy shooting with others because I like to interact. I’m really introverted unless I’m out with a group of like-minded photographers. When they come across something they think is interesting, I may not agree, but it’s really cool that others see beauty or interest where I don’t. A group also sees things that I would miss on my own. Plus, I love cameras! Groups have lots of cameras to lust after.

Q: What is your favorite black and white film right now and why?

A: Kentmere 400. It’s cheap, has decent latitude which is good for me because I am way too lazy with my metering. It’s also got a nice tone to it. It works well with Rodinal stand development and D-76, it has no curl so it fits in my scanner trays properly, and did I mention it’s cheap ?

Q: What is your favorite color film right now and why?

A: I might sound like a broken record, or a fanboy with an endorsement contract, but I really love Fujifilm, and for film it’s Fujifilm Superia X-Tra 400. I am in love with the cooler blues and greens and the subdued reds and browns. My favorite color photos in my collection were all shot on Superia X-TRA 400.

Q: Complete the following sentence: “I am a photographer because…”. What do YOU get from photography?

A: …”I love the mechanical beauty of a camera.” I often look at my collection and I am amazed at the innovation that went on during the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. The steampunk look of the Argus C3 or the Ricoh-35, the Flash Gordon look of the Kodak Retinette IA, the “Leather and Metal” look of the 1970’s SLR’s from Canon and Nikon, and the marriage of manual and automatic with the 1990’s premium point-and-shoot cameras. There was just so much going on and so many companies experimenting.

Q: Best experience while taking photographs?

A: When I first started shooting street photography in 2015, I had a Zorki 4K with a Jupiter 8 50mm f/2 lens and some Kentmere 400. I was walking around downtown on a gloomy, chilly day and I’d decided I wanted to try my hand at shooting wide-open. Right as I’d set my lens to f/2 and adjusted my shutter speed, a guy in a hoodie walked right toward me and I snapped a portrait of him. He even smiled and kept walking.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: Most emotional experience while taking photographs?

A: After the FPP workshop was over last August, I drove from Findlay to Niagra Falls. At the falls I was totally in awe over the power of the water, the sounds of the falls and the overall beauty. I couldn’t shoot enough rolls. I had the Bronica ETRS and 9 rolls of Fujifilm Velvia and Provia 100, and my Fujifilm Klasse with Superia X-TRA 400. I used up every roll I had and was so excited to get back home and develop the film, only to realize in my eagerness to start snapping away, I’d left my darkslide partially engaged. All 9 rolls from the session were blank.

Q: Worst experience while taking photographs.

A: This spring I took my family to the Memphis Zoo and my 8 year old son wanted to shoot film. I lent him my Minolta AF-2. The counter was at 12 and I remembered using color film in it, so I told him to use it and shoot the remaining 24 shots. While we walked the zoo, he would snap shots and tell me how many were used. “Thirty three, dad.” “Thirty five…, thirty six… thirty seven.” I thought he’d gotten a an extra frame out of it due to my frugal loading. When he said “Thirty nine…” I knew in my heart his camera was empty. I popped the back on it and sure enough there was nothing in it. He started to cry and said “All those shots I took,” paused between tears and sternly demanded “Next time we come to the zoo I want a digital camera.” I felt so bad for him, but totally understood.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: Tell me about something related to photography you want to learn.

A: I really want to learn how to properly meter. I am way too guilty of leaning on exposure latitude to cover my butt when I’m out shooting. Most of the time it works out in my favor, but some of the neutral grey black and white photos I’ve taken remind me that I have a deficiency. I’m getting better, but I would love to get great at it.

Q: Tell me about something NOT related to photography you want to learn.

A: I want to learn to speak Spanish fluently. I live in the United States, the second largest Spanishspeaking country in the world. I know that sounds weird, but really it’s true. We are blessed that we’re not only bordered by two different countries and cultures, but that we’re not at war with either. The Mexican people have a beautiful culture and are beautiful people, and I think it’s only fair that I speak their language – they’re willing to speak mine.

Q: What does your family/loved ones think/feel about your photography?

A: My family is very supportive of my hobby. My kids love jumping in the car to go out on photographic adventures. I recently bought my wife an underwater camera, my daughter has one of our older digital cameras, and my son, well, he still likes film. If he sees me heading out the door with a camera, he’s running to the camera shelves to pick on so he can go with me.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: What is the last photography related book you’ve acquired?

A: The most recent photography book I’ve acquired is 2 ¼ by William Eggleston. Bill is, by far, my favorite color photographer. I love his work for its style, it’s color tone, and the fact that he can take the “mundane” and make it “interesting.” The book cover has a half of a 1960s Ford Mustang on it. He was just in a parking lot and took a photo of cars. Regular cars, not exotic cars. Yet the photo drew me to the book and what is inside is just as fascinating.

Q: Name one of your favorite accounts on Instagram and explain what draws you to this photographer.

A: Photographer Colten Allen, a.k.a. “daiku_san” is an amazing photographer. He suffers from ALS, and is in a wheelchair, but that doesn’t stop him from making the most amazing photos. His style very much reminds me of William Eggleston, and I have yet to see a photo I didn’t just love. His perspective is from a seated position and it’s another thing that makes it stand out among the IG crowd. If there was a photographer I would love to go shooting with, it would be Colten Allen.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: Have you ever sold or have thought about selling any of your photographs? Would you do it again? Any advice for others thinking of selling their photographs?

A: have not sold any of my work because it seems like such a hassle. If I had a darkroom, maybe I’d make some prints and throw up an Etsy page, but I like Eric Kim’s old “Open Source Photography” philosophy and I share that ideal. If people like my work, just ask for a copy to print. If you want to share it on a website, give me a shout out. Just don’t steal it. As for advice, remember there are a million other photographers out there doing the same thing, so the field is saturated. Don’t expect to make it a full-time job.

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

(Photo by Chris Etzel)

Q: Are there any photography related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: I am not really on any projects right now. I’d love suggestions! I really enjoy the work of the Frugal Film Photography project and hope to get my name in the hat for that one year. They have amazing work on cheap cameras.

Q: Are there any non-photographic related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: Nope. I’m pretty basic.

Q: Where is your favorite location to shoot (specific place or type of place)?

A: .Dixon Gallery and Gardens in Memphis (https://dixongallery.org). It’s an old private residence that was converted to an impressionist art gallery and public gardens. Last fall/winter they planted over 100,000 tulip bulbs that bloomed in May this year. It was a beautiful sight.

Q: Is there a specific object you’ve found yourself photographing over and over again? If so, why?

A: There is, actually, an object I have photographed with nearly every camera I own. It's a little sign above my stove in the kitchen that reads "this house runs on love, laughter and lots of strong coffee".

It is in a place that is lit by a florescent bulb but also a place that doesn't have great lighting, so I use it to test the low light abilities of new lenses, and the white balance of my digital cameras. I also know it's exactly 2.5m from the kitchen sink, so I can test the close focus accuracy of my old rangefinder cameras.

Q: Favorite thing about the photographic community?

A: I like the film photography community. They tend to be low-key folks willing to share, swap, teach, learn and keep in touch. I haven’t had much luck with digital photography groups. For those, a camera is a camera. It’s Nikon or Canon. I got bullied by a retired photographer for shooting a film Leica in the group!

Q: What do you think the photographic community is missing?

A: More daylight.

Q: Biggest photography related pet peeve?

A: Watermarks. You’re not as famous as you think, and if you were you’d know you don’t need a watermark. They ruin a beautiful image.

Q: What do you hope your photographic legacy will be?

A: I’d love for folks to look back and say, “He was a great photographer and shared his talent and love freely with others.”

Q: Who is the one person (living or dead) that you’d like to photograph and why? Describe the type of portrait you’d shoot, and the message you’d want this portrait to communicate about this person.

A: I think I’d like to get a good portrait session with my dad. He doesn’t like getting his photo taken, but he has great facial lines that are accentuated as he ages. He looks like he’s hardened even though he’s a gentle man. I would take his portrait against a black backdrop while he’s sitting in behind a big wooden ship’s wheel. He’d be in jeans, Sperry topsiders, and a white t-shirt. I’d use my Bronica ETRS and a couple rolls of Tri-X, pushed.

As you can see from the photos Chris has shared, he’s a very talented photographer. I’m very excited to see the photos Chris shares with us in the future.

Head on over to www.aragonseye.com or @aragons_eye on Instagram and connect with Chris.

30 Questions With Photographer Shawn Augustson

I know a lot of photographers. Some I’ve met in person. Some I only know through their online presence. Some are well known throughout the film photography community, but most are not. They aren’t “professional photographers” if you define a professional as someone who earns their living from the photos they produce. That’s not to say they haven’t sold photographs or haven’t been paid to photograph. It just means photography isn’t their primary source of income. If you asked them if they considered themselves professionals, many would laugh at the idea and would say they don’t even consider themselves artists or photographers at all. They’d suggest they’re merely hobbyists who enjoy taking photos.

Well, I disagree. I look at the work these photographers produce and feel like it should have a bigger audience. I feel like there’s a story as to why they photograph what they do, in the way that they do, when they do. I wanted to know what inspires them, what motivates them, and what makes them choose the cameras they use.

To do this, I thought I’d start a new project. For this project, I’d ask them to answer 30 questions about themselves and their photography, and I’d ask them to share some of their work. I’m hoping you find their answers and their photography as interesting as I do.

The first person I want to introduce you to is Shawn Augustson.

Self portrait. (Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Self portrait. (Photo by Shawn Augustson)

I first met Shawn in August 2018 at the Film Photography Project Walking Workshop. I had really just gotten back into shooting film myself a short time before attending the workshop and didn’t really know a lot of other film photographers. I hear quite often how many film photographers happen upon the Film Photography Project Podcast and suddenly have this eureka moment of discovering they’re not alone in their desire to shoot film. That was me. I suddenly found myself surrounded by people who had the same passion as I. Some of us even went on a photowalk one evening after the workshop had concluded for the day. I had found my tribe. I met so many people that weekend and exchanged contact information with many of them. Unfortunately, Shawn wasn’t one of them. It wasn’t until later the next month that our paths would cross again.

Shawn (back row, on the left) and I (front row, on the left) at the Film Photography Walking Workshop, August 2018. (Photo courtesy of Robert Hamm)

Shawn (back row, on the left) and I (front row, on the left) at the Film Photography Walking Workshop, August 2018. (Photo courtesy of Robert Hamm)

After returning home from the workshop, I quickly realized it wasn’t as fun going on photowalks when I was the only photogrpaher. I missed seeing what other photographers were shooting (camera and film) and missed comparing the results they got with my own on similar subjects. I decided I wanted to organize a film photowalk of my own. I posted an invitation on Instagram for an afternoon of photography in Cincinnati for the following weekend. It was short notice, but I ended up getting a few takers. One of them was Shawn.

The first photowalk crew: starting from the left, Edmund, Myself, Shawn, and Austin. (Photo by Sam Warner)

The first photowalk crew: starting from the left, Edmund, Myself, Shawn, and Austin. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn, scoping out his next shot in Cincinnati. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn, scoping out his next shot in Cincinnati. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

After the Cincinnati photowalk, Shawn and I stayed in touch and became great friends. We’ve continued to meet up for additional photowalks and even some one-on-one shoots. I’m honored that Shawn accepted my invitation (badgering, really) to talk about photography with me and was willing to let me share some of his work on this blog.

Shawn and his Minolta. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn and his Minolta. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Q: What is your name and where do you live?

A: Shawn Augustson. Columbus Ohio.

Q: How can people contact you?

A: The best way to contact me is through Instagram at @bestoftheroll.

Q: If we’ve met, how do we know each other?

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

A: FPP Walking Workshop.

Q: What is your earliest memory of taking a photography?

A: My dad taking me to Disney World when I was 12 with a disposable camera.

Q: Of the cameras you currently own, what is your favorite (you may choose one of each format if applicable?

A: Medium Format: Bronica S2, 35mm: Nikon N70, Point & Shoot: Leica Minilux Zoom.

Q: Is there a camera you’ve always lusted after and hope to acquire someday? What makes you desire this camera?

A: I finally got it with my Bronica S2. I like medium format and I also like that there are no electronics with it. It gives me good vibes when I use it and I feel creative. I have always wanted a Leica M6.

Q: Is there a camera you no longer have that you miss?

A: Leica M4-P.

Q: What type of photographs do you most enjoy taking (portraits, landscapes, street, etc) and why?

A: I like doing street photography, mostly because I like to wander around and see people. I am interested in portraits but never have anyone to pose for me.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: While most of us shoot both digital and film, I believe we all have a tendency to prefer one over the other. What do you prefer and why?

A: shoot film only. I don't really enjoy doing digital photography.

Q: How often/much do you shoot photographs (rolls per week, month, etc)?

A: I pretty much find a way to shoot at least a roll every day.

Q: Do you prefer to photograph with other people, or would you rather shoot alone? Please explain.

A: I wish I could photograph with others as I enjoy being out somewhere with another person. About 99% of the time I am by myself and it feels like a lonely planet. This might also be a reason why I like photographing people.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: What is your favorite black and white film right now and why?

A: I like HP5 400. I like to shoot it at box speed as well as it pushes and pulls nicely. If I was only allowed one film it would be this one.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: What is your favorite color film right now and why?

A: I haven’t really settled on a favorite as of yet. I do like Ektar 100. In 35mm format I tend to shoot a lot of Kodak ColorPlus because its so cheap.

Q: Complete the following sentence: “I am a photographer because…”. What do YOU get from photography?

A: I don’t see myself as a photographer. I am mostly documenting my existence I guess. It is more

of a form of therapy for me to help me deal with my mental health issues. My photos are just

stuff I interact with throughout the day.

Q: Best experience while taking photographs?

A: Capturing firefighters that were responding to a building fire in downtown Columbus, OH.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Most emotional experience while taking photographs?

A: I photographed a little girl, her baby sister and an older man with them in Iraq using a walking around picking up spent ammo casings that they would then turn the brass in for payment. It made me cry. I pictured kids back home on an Easter egg hunt laughing and having fun while they had to do this in order to survive. The sight of me standing there in full battle rattle with a weapon had to be terrifying to her. I wanted to just hug them and keep them safe. I can hear her little voice in my head to this day saying to her sister “Soldier. Camera Click-Click” explaining that I was not going to hurt them and was taking a photo. I often wonder about them and how their lives turned out. When looking for these photos I had a certain photo in my mind and discovered it was not there. I dream about this family a lot at night and I think what I was picturing was actually just a photograph that was in my mind.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Worst experience while taking photographs.

A: Accidentally photographing a drug deal and being noticed, then having my life threatened.

Q: Tell me about something related to photography you want to learn.

A: I would like to learn more about night photography. I tend to be out in the daylight more often.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Tell me about something NOT related to photography you want to learn.

A: How to play the violin.

Q: What does your family/loved ones think/feel about your photography?

A: They are probably the ones who know most about why I photograph certain things and how much it helps me. They fully support me.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: What is the last photography related book you’ve acquired?

A: I don’t have any.

Shawn Augustson in action. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn Augustson in action. (Photo by Sam Warner)

Q: Name one of your favorite accounts on Instagram and explain what draws you to this photographer.

A: I don’t have a favorite photographer but I do like to see all the various works from around the world that Ilford Photo post.

Q: Have you ever sold or have thought about selling any of your photographs? Would you do it again? Any advice for others thinking of selling their photographs?

A: I have sold photos in my various solo gallery shows at local art galleries museums here in Columbus, OH. It’s something that maybe I should pursue more but always falls to the back burner. I haven't really taken a lot of photos that I feel are worthy of selling. Most of what I photograph are things I see throughout my day and they appeal to me, not really something that someone wants to hang on their wall.

Q: Are there any photography related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: I am starting a series of works called “Living After War”, it is photographs of my fellow veterans and how they are dealing with ways to continue living after experiencing the horrors of war. I want to highlight positive ways of coping with negative thoughts we have. When I returned home from serving in Iraq I attempted suicide several times. Eventually art and photography gave me a way to express my thoughts and emotions and have been one of the best forms of therapy for me. I saw first hand with other veterans that I shared with the hope that it gave them. I would like the series to be something that someone veteran or not who may be dealing with issues be able to see something positive that they can also do to help them continue their mission and live on.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Are there any non-photographic related projects you’re working on that you’d like to tell us about?

A: None at the moment.

Q: Where is your favorite location to shoot (specific place or type of place)?

A: Somewhere with people. I would love someday to go to NYC and photograph on the streets.

Q: Is there a specific object you’ve found yourself photographing over and over again? If so, why?

A: I have photographed a lot of exit signs, mostly because I am always looking for the best way out of a place and I found that taking a photo of it then settled down my anxiety.

Q: Favorite thing about the photographic community?

A: Those that I have interacted with tend to share knowledge more.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: What do you think the photographic community is missing?

A: Someplace better to share photographs than Instagram.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Biggest photography related pet peeve?

A: That all film photos should have light leaks, be under exposed and poorly focused.

Q: What do you hope your photographic legacy will be?

A: That I had fun doing it.

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

(Photo by Shawn Augustson)

Q: Who is the one person (living or dead) that you’d like to photograph and why? Describe the type of portrait you’d shoot, and the message you’d want this portrait to communicate about this person.

A: I guess I would have liked to photograph my dad before he passed away. I have often thought that had I been interested in photography then that maybe doing some portraits would have helped me understand him better. I would have most likely photographed him playing guitar as well as with his Harley Davidson Motorcycle. I would have to set up some sort of moody dark shot to highlight all his tattoos and biker patches. I guess I would just convey the message that “I am your father and I loved you the best way that I knew how.”.

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

Shawn Augustson (Photo by Sam Warner)

As you can see from the photos Shawn has shared, he’s a very talented photographer. I’m very excited to see the photos Shawn shares in the future.

Head on over @bestoftheroll on Instagram and show Shawn some love.