Jonathan Robinson: Brooklyn Vibes
CALEB SCHAFTLEIN,
1. Could you please give us a little introduction and tell us about your first experience with photography? Who or what inspired you to begin photography?
I was born and raised in the UK and settled in New York City almost a decade ago. I’ve always been fascinated with different cultures and been fortunate to travel extensively over the past twenty years. It was traveling that stimulated my initial interest in photography. While on the road I always made an effort to document my experiences through a camera lens. I love the human element involved in portraiture! In my experience the ability to communicate effectively with subjects and put them at ease is absolutely essential to produce high quality work.
2. From your point of view, what are the most exciting aspects of professional photography?
I really relish the opportunity to engage with creatives. Fellow photographers and models are a great source of inspiration and I’m really enjoying the opportunities to meet and engage with people from all walks of life that have evolved since starting my photography business. In this respect, New York City is a fantastic place for collaboration. The diversity and unique energy that reverberates in this city continues to be a tremendous source of inspiration for my photography.
3. As the expert you are, what distinguishes your work from other photographers?
My passion for rangefinder photography is a big factor. I mostly shoot in manual focus and find the slower deliberate process involved is a great way to master the basic principles of photography. From a photographic point of view, the pandemic was a genre defining moment in my career. Before then I had mainly focused on travel and street photography. But somehow the ability to re-engage with people after the prolonged lockdowns awakened my passion for portraiture and has subsequently defined my photography in ways that I had never previously imagined.
4. What are your goals for the next year with your photography business?
Collaboration is an important part of my approach to photography. It helps stimulate creativity, encourages you to push boundaries, rethink your approach and embrace new techniques. It’s also a great way to build your network and make new friends! I have a busy schedule of studio shoots lined up for the winter period and I’ll be doing these both individually and in a collaborative manner. I intend to continue honing my skills and achieve excellence in my photography through relentless practice!
5. Can you walk us through your planning process for this photoshoot?
This shoot was with the Brooklyn-based model and artist, Summer Cedano. We wanted an urban theme and found inspiration in the gritty post-industrial setting of Domino Park in Brooklyn, New York City. The shoot included digital and film and most shots were taken at the 50mm focal length.
6. Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?
I’ve been inspired by many amazing photographers and each with their own unique style. This includes Diane Arbus, Garry Winogrand, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Sebastiao Salgado, among others.
7. What are your upcoming projects?
I love the black and white medium, both digital and film, and intend to do more portrait work in this format going forward. I haven’t shot much film in 2022 (my go-to camera broke!) but I intend to include more black and white portraiture in my workflow next year. I just love the unique characteristics that render on film and I feel it helps give a unique signature to my photography.
8. Where can we see more of your works and get connected with you?
Please check out my website: Jonathanrobinsonphotography.com and engage with me on Instagram @jon_robinson_photography.
Credits:
Photo: @jon_robinson_photography
Model: @summer.joy.rain_music
