Who are you?
I am a Sand City, California based independent documentary photographer currently working on a project about the Salinas Valley that explores how geography impacts culture.
What do you want?
I want to tell stories that move people.
Why photography?
Photography is the closest thing we have to a universal language. Through this language photographers are able to create visual representations of places, events, people, etc. that can elicit similar emotional responses from people all over the world. It's hard to match the power and the capability of this medium. On a personal level, photography has unlocked something powerful from the very depths of my soul. It has become my poetry, my voice, my escape, my calling. I couldn't live without it if I tried.
What gear do you use?
I am a dedicated film shooter. I haven't owned a digital camera in quite some time; for me, film just fits. It frees me from gear distraction and allows me to be completely present in the moment while photographing. This same desire for simplicity has led me to create almost all of my work with Kodak 400TX, a Leica M2, and a 35mm Summicron.
Any interests, hobbies, or passions outside of photography?
I play hockey, love to cycle, explore new places, and hike with my dogs. I am an unapologetic people watcher of the highest possible order.
Music, movies, books, TV, games. What are some of your favorites? Any recommendations?
Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, 2Pac, Nina Simone, Jay-Z, Ella Fitzgerald, Tom Waits, Kendrick Lamar, George Clinton, Nirvana, Grateful Dead, Jacob Banks, John Coltrane, Bob Dylan, and The Rolling Stones.
The Colossus of Maroussi by Henry Miller
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
The Sheltering Sky by Paul Bowles
Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs
The Subterraneans by Jack Kerouac
Who or what is inspiring you?
I am inspired by the daily determination of those who seek to embody justice and humanity despite the mundane struggles of life. It is the beauty of their persistence that draws me out into the world with my camera hoping to capture my own sliver of the human existence.
What's one thing about yourself that would surprise most people?
I voted for George W. Bush.
What's your funniest or most embarrassing story?
I voted for George W. Bush.
Got any words of wisdom or a favorite quote?
Épater le bourgeois!
Any other photographers you think people should check out?
What do you wish someone would ask you?
Hey, I've got this time machine, wanna ride?
What’s the answer to that question?
Yes please.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you so much Elan, I am excited to be a part of this new creative community!
