My interview with the lovely Tracy Tesmer
www.tracytesmer.com
FOLLOW TRACY ON TWITTER!
Before you fall in love with her .... 3 things you should know about her ....
She is a native Nebraskan
She has two kitties Leica and Fuji (I should say two NAUGHTY kitties)
She has more than 10 tattoos
What do you want now ...
Another trip to New England and NYC. A weekend in Galveston to be near the water. A lifetime supply of film.
Your obsessions ...
I am completely obsessed with color management. Photojournalism. Black and white film photography. Old lenses. And if you follow me on twitter you know that I am obsessed with Chipotle. I think I eat it at least 2 to 3 times a week. My iPhone, I love my iPhone.
Where do you find your inspiration ...
My inspiration comes from so many places. I find much of it in the lives of my clients and my friends. I find inspiration in movies and old films. That's probably where most of my inspiration comes from. I'm a people watcher too. I like to observe people in everyday interactions and translate that to ideas for the camera.
One thing you plan to do, to shake up your own work this fall ...
I am making the progression back to film. I am not a purest, so not only are you going to see film but the mixing of digital and film techniques in my work. I've always employed film techniques in my digital work, so you are going to see that happening the other way as well. Dramatic lighting, concept work, and atmospheric locations. I am feeling very very inspired by fashion.
Do you have time to have a life ...
Even though photography really is my passion and my life I have to make time for a social life. I tend to be a bit of a workaholic, so I have wonderful friends who always invite me to lunch or desert, or even the movies. You have to make time for that kind of laughter and joy in your life. All work and no play makes Tracy a very boring girl.
How has the economy affected you ...
I've had to make some adjustments in how much personal shooting I do. I am just getting hit by it the most right now. I think during tough times, photography is often seen as a luxury. So, I make adjustments on my side of things with specials and packages so that it still can be affordable without sacrificing quality. I don't think the documentation of life should be a luxury, even in slow economic times.
A few of her favorite products ...
Kodak Porta VC and NC 400 speed film. Love, love, love porta. Alien Skin Exposure. I couldn't live without it. My Wacom tablet. Every photographer should have one. If you don't, go get one. Finally, The Sustainable Group's Resleeves. I have at least one case on hand at all times. I use them for my cd packaging.
What she ate for breakfast...
Strawberry frosted poptarts and Red Bull.
What gets you excited ...
My clients! Clients who are so excited for shooting that they are bursting with energy. When they say to me (this is my favorite phrase) "You are the artist, you can do whatever you want." I get a little shiver when I hear that.
TWO of Tracy's favorite photographs this year! |