The Man from Snowy River

What pieces or projects have you been working on lately?
Lately, I’ve been diving into medium format slide film with my beautiful RB67. The simple complexity of its mechanical operation has me enthralled. I live and work as an expedition guide, which takes me across some of the most stunning areas in Australia, and it’s been a joy to carry this camera on my hip.

What did you learn (or unlearn) while working on them?
Controlling my expectations. When I only get 10 photos a roll, at around $8 a shot on slide, I’d love for them all to be special. However, that isn’t always the case and I’ve learned sometimes you have to take a few (or many) average photos to get the good stuff. It’s also made me a lot more selective about pressing the shutter, both on 120 and 35mm.

What words, ideas or emotions were going through your head?
For me, photography is a meditative practice, and a connection to country. I grew up surrounded by an awareness of the land, and a deep love for it. I’m lucky that I get to visit so many incredible places, and I try my best to do these beautiful areas and people justice.

Were there any conversations, movies, music, or books that made their way into that work?
Last month I dived into Annie Leibovitz work and her way of photographing people with an emphasis on their surroundings. I love landscapes, and I love portraiture, but both feel complete for me when they’re in alignment.

What's been the most difficult thing you've faced recently in your creative process?
Learning to get reliable images in faster moments with this camera has been a learning curve in itself. I’m at a point now where nearly every shot on a roll is one I’m happy with, which feels pretty great!

What is your favorite restaurant and what do you recommend we order?
Elios Osteria, an Italian restaurant in Brisbane, with a serve of their garlic and cheese calzone. Stretchy mozzarella goodness that I’ve loved since I was born.

If your life were a movie this month, what would it be called and who would write the soundtrack?
The Man from Snowy River, with a soundtrack by Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, Redgum and The Pilgrim Brothers. I’ve spent the last few weeks following the snowy river into the mountains and spending my nights up in the backcountry. Just the other day I brought the RB on an expedition through Ramshead Range, and Aurora Australis decided to join me. Can’t wait for those!

Recommend one or more artists you follow who inspire you, and tell us what you like most about their work or their way of working.
My most recent obsession has been with Christopher Anderson and his White House portraits for Vanity Fair. I can see these photos in history books and it’s been hard to get them off my mind. The brutal honesty and courage in taking the images, as well as the mixed light reflecting sickly skin colours… Superb.