Interview Laura A. Watt
“For me photography is about uncovering an intimacy with the world.”
Name: Laura A. Watt
Hometown: San Francisco Bay area, Marin/Sonoma county
Style of Photography: Analog
Type of Cameras: Lately i’ve been in love with my Polaroid Automatic 250 — other favorites include a Hasselblad, Holga, various Polaroids, a Russian Horizon panorama camera, and my grandfather’s Rolleiflex
Website: www.lawatt.com
What gives you inspiration?
Water is a frequent subject of mine, as are tree branches, small curling sprouts, and land- or seascapes, but ultimately, it’s all about the light. Inspiration sometimes lurks in strange places, so I tend to carry a camera or two with me at all times, just in case.
What are your influences?
Nearest influences these days are several friends I often go shooting with. They are simply amazing, and I always see things a little differently when i’m with them. As for better-known photographers, rather than a lengthy list, i’ll just name three: i’m a huge fan of Sally Mann, Tina Modotti from the early 20th century, and Carleton Watkins from way back.
Why did you choose these photos?
They are recent favorites of mine, and I think each represents some different direction(s) that my work can take.
What does photography mean to you?
For me photography is about uncovering an intimacy with the world, breaking down (false) divisons between the natural and the human. At its best it reveals an aspect of that thing/person/scene that you wouldn’t necessarily see with your bare eyes, something that only the camera/film/moment of capture can really get at.
Photos:
Copyright reserved by laura A. Watt
