Interview with CAMERON HOERTH, USA
If there is one thing that is of any value it's the patience you gain from shooting film. I've become a better photographer because of it.
Before we start, Cameron. Can you tell us something about yourself and how you got into film photography?
Cameron: My name is Cameron Hoerth im 21 years old and from the Midwest in the U.S. A few hobbies include skateboarding and playing guitar but my main passion is photographing. I got into film photography from watching my best friend Sam Phillips shoot it. I always edited my digital files to look like film so I decided to give it a go and haven't stopped since.
What type of film do you use and what camera do you use it with? Why do you prefer these?
Cameron: Ilford HP5 pushed to 1600 and my Leica M6 with a 35mm. Ilford pushed is just perfect. Its the classic look along with some punchy contrast and very forgiving. You can be off two or three stops and still get a usable frame. I use a Leica just because its small and quiet. 35mm is my favorite focal length because you have to get closer and I love the depth it gives you when you shoot with a wide aperture and close to the subject.
What do you think film has that digital doesn't have?
Cameron: Purely the moment of being present and in the moment of what you're photographing. That's the best.
Do you print your own photographs or are you comfortable having them printed in a lab?
Cameron: I do develop the film myself. As far as getting them printed I get them done at a lab or If I have access to a darkroom I'll print myself.
What motivates you to continue making photographs with film? Have you learned anything about yourself through film photography?
Cameron: I think as a creative you're never happy with the work you create. When I develop a roll and I get maybe a few frames that are keepers that gives me the motivation to go out and shoot more. A lot my good photographs come with tons of rolls. I've been averaging a good 10 images per year and Id like to get more than that.
Are there any photographers that influenced your way of making pictures?
Cameron: Ed Templeton is the main one. I got the boarders idea first through him and the photo joiners that I've done. J. Grant Brittain, Tobin Yelland, and Jason Lee. Mainly skateboard photographers and a few skateboarders.
Do you see any value shooting with film?
Cameron: If there is one thing that is of any value it's the patience you gain from shooting film. I've become a better photographer because of it. Because I was present in the moment I know where to place myself to make the photograph I see in my head.
What do you think is the future of film photography?
Cameron: I'm not really sure to be honest. I try not to worry about that. I try to control what I can and let the rest happen. I feel everything will fall into place if you just go into it with that mindset. Id like to have a couple more showcases of my work. Moving to a bigger city will be a good step in that.
What’s your dream photography project?
Cameron: I believe I'm shooting it right now. Just my life. To capture everything that happens in the time I'm here and to hand that down to my loved ones.
Would you like to share some advise to those who want to try out film photography for the first time? What must they learn before venturing into this format?
Cameron: Just try it out. Its really not that hard. Get a roll of color or B&W and just go shoot. Film is not dead. There's tons to go around. Basic understanding of photography and ASA, fStop and Shutter speed are all you need to know. If you don't like it and want to keep shooting with digital go for it. Just get out and enjoy your creative process. A great photo is a great photo no matter what It's shot with.
Excellent work, Cameron!
Currently, Cameron is busy shooting and getting some photo series to put together. Whilst working on some finishing touches on his website, he's setting up the second issue of his quarterly zine Slow Relax.
Do stay in touch with him through Instagram.
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Be considerate. All photographs shown on this page are the sole property of Cameron Hoerth. He devoted his time, and worked hard on these photographs. Do not copy, download, reproduce, reprint, modify, distribute, publicly display, license, transfer or sell content retrieved from this page in any way, for any public or commercial use or to any commercial source, including other websites, without prior written permission of Cameron Hoerth. You don’t want to go to jail, do you?
Well now, if you are a passionate film photographer and would like to be interviewed? I’d love to hear from you. Send me an email at mapamelvin@gmail.com with the subject, "Interview me", and share everyone your story, thoughts, and work related to film photography. I’ll get back to you as soon as I receive your request for an interview.
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Cheers!
Mel