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Monica Ford- Taking aim at herself |
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Written by Nathan Riley Matters
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Thursday, 09 August 2007 |
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Page 2 of 3
GD:
You've always been in front of the lens doing print and TV work, have you ever been on the other side of the lens before, doing something as interesting as this?
MF:
I’ve never really worked behind the lens until now. I only started using a camera for something other than shooting snap shots of my family, friends and kitten in May of this year. But, looking back, I’ve always had a clear vision of how I think any photo should look and feel. So, even as a model just starting out in print work, I learned a lot by asking questions, listening and watching as a shot was set up. I would usually end up pouring over proofs with the photographer and then working with him or her at a later time on photo ideas of my own. I have stacks of sketches on espresso stained scraps of paper & napkins of little scenes I want to capture. Now that I’ve found my way behind the camera…I’m addicted.
GD:
Which side of the camera do you prefer ?
MF:
I truly enjoy shooting with many different photographers. Particularly, photographers with clear vision & direction. There is an exciting and intimate creative synergy that can happen between us two. I’m so thankful that I’ve had and continue to have those opportunities because those experiences teach me so much. But, shooting a photo of myself by myself places all the control in my hands. It’s kind of like masturbation. I know what I like. I am certain of what I want to accomplish and I can instinctively find the sweet spot. So, nothing is delayed or lost in translation.
GD:
Where did the idea to shoot yourself come from?
MF:
One night I was at home alone sifting through some photo ideas and just started playing with my little digital camera. My boyfriend Tom, who is also a photographer, saw the photos and the next day presented me with this big beautiful camera. Having professional equipment and an experienced photographer patient enough and ever willing to answer my myriad of technical questions opened up a whole new world to me. I am so thankful to him and other photographers and friends for their inspiration, encouragement and advice. Plus, creating these images was the only way to legitimize my shoe and lingerie addiction.
GD:
Why only black and white? What does black and white offer your shots that you wouldn’t have if you shot in color?
MF:
Oh crap, I thought shooting in black and white is what made my pictures art as opposed to porn. Isn’t that the rule? I first began shooting in color. There are a couple of color self-portraits up on my website (www.monicafordonline.com) but, ultimately I prefer the texture and simplicity of black & white over what I feel can sometimes be the distracting intricacies of color.
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