This week’s Member Moment features work by Film Club member Parker Phelps, who transforms ordinary scenes into totemic images. Scroll down to see his pictures and to read the interview!
PL: What got you interested in photography?
PP: I was in a BFA program where I mostly used a camera to document my work. After I graduated, my friend Nuri got me more interested in actually taking pictures and using cameras. I don’t really identify as a photographer, but I really enjoy using photography as part of my creative process.
PL: What type of camera do you shoot with?
PP: I mainly use a Fujifilm XT3, a Crown Graphic, and a 35mm point-and-shoot.
PL: When taking pictures, what are some objects or elements or feelings within a scene that inspire you to take a photo?
PP: I’m often drawn to moments that are funny, unusual, or beautiful. I frequently find inspiration in scenes involving Haley, my fiancée, or other loved ones.
PL: Of the pictures you submitted, can you share an interesting story about one?
SA: The photo of a hand pointing at the sun behind the clouds was taken on Assateague Island, off the coast of Maryland. The island is famous for its wild horses, which are descendants of animals from a shipwreck. We were camping there as a storm rolled in. In the photo, Haley is pointing at the approaching storm, which would later flood and flatten our tent.
PL: What do you enjoy most about digital photography and what is challenging about it?
PP: I really enjoy the process of taking photos—seeing something interesting and capturing it. The challenging part, especially with digital photography, is going through all the images and selecting the best ones. It can be time-consuming, but it's part of the process.
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