This week’s Member Moment features work by Will Osei, whose photography captures a wide array of cultures and moments. Scroll down to see his pictures and to read the interview!
PL: What got you interested in photography?
WO: I took a Film 101 class as an elective early in college and didn’t take it too seriously at the time, but I remember loving the experience of capturing moments, especially street photography, walking around, and shooting rolls for class. It took me almost ten years to really get behind the lens again, but once I did, I’ve been hooked ever since.
PL: What type of camera do you shoot with?
WO: I usually carry a Ricoh GR III or an old Yashica T3 day to day, but when I’m traveling, I mostly shoot with an old Nikon N80.
PL: When taking pictures, what are some objects or elements or feelings within a scene that inspire you to take a photo?
WO: I’m a psychologist, so I’m drawn to moments of pressure—small, quiet instances of resilience in a world that often ignores them.
PL: Of the pictures you submitted, can you share an interesting story about one?
WO: There’s this photo of a woman in India dragging a basket while the world ignores her. Something about her pink sari as she walks slowly has stayed with me and keeps pulling me back to that image.
PL: What do you enjoy most about digital/film photography and what is challenging about it?
WO: I love the idea, especially in film, of capturing a moment, seeing something, and hoping you captured something beautiful. I love coming back from a trip with a bunch of rolls, eager to see what flowers bloomed.
PL: Do you have any goals or ideas of how you want to grow this collection of photographs?
WO: I’m beginning a long-term project centered on capturing pressure in everyday life. It’s still early days, but I hope to shape it into something I can present one day.
Every day, Club Members take exceptional pictures. If you are not a Film Club Member yet what are you waiting for? Join today to support the photo community in Philly and to start saving money on film processing!