“I mainly consider moods and emotions from my subjects and also take into account everything to the finest detail. When I pick up the camera and look into the frame I am looking for a mood which reflects back to my own state of mind. I also try to be loose and free-spirited with my camera just in case I see something more meaningful.”
Brian Pescador
Brian Pescador (born in 1985) is a contemporary photographer from the USA currently based in Palm Springs, California. He studied photography with friends, with family members, while attending different colleges, book stores, magazine stands, camping trips, traveling through Europe, growing up, and with many mentors.
Artist statement
“Photography is what I love doing. Taking photos consumes my life. Everything in my life revolves around my camera. My definite major purpose in life is to become a bad-ass photographer. I want to capture the spirit of youth with my camera, and make bad-ass pics about love and adventure.”
Interview with Brian Pescador
Brian, what was your most memorable moment shooting pictures?
My most memorable moment shoot would have to be in a grassy meadow in King’s Canyon, California when I was photographing my friends and we were all super high on mushrooms. I do not recommend this type of shooting for any beginner photographer. I was shooting my friends while I was in another dimension. I got great moments from this shoot. I believe that I got some of my most favorite photos ever from that day in the meadow.
Why did you become a photographer?
I fell in love with photography after I was given a camera for a birthday present one year.
What does photography mean to you and what do you want to say with your pictures?
Photography means everything to me. I love photography so much that my whole life and existence revolves around it.
Which photographer has inspired you most?
My friend and photographer Paul Jasmin has inspired me the most. He encouraged me to start building my photo book library. He showed me at such an early age books like “Diary” by Corinne Day. I stopped buying cameras and equipment and I started buying as many photo magazines and books that I could get a hold of. My friend Paul Jasmin inspired me the most and I feel that I have grown the most as a photographer because of him.
What’s your favorite photography quote?
“Show me your world or create your own world with a camera.”
Paul Jasmin
How would you describe your photographic language and creative process?
I always try to say the same thing over and over again, but I when I shoot my pictures I say it in a louder and more creative way each time I pick up the camera and with every photo that I take.
What’s important in order to develop an own photographic voice?
I think it’s very important to have your own photographic voice because there are so many images being taken. When you personally have your own photographic voice you can attract people to want to view your photos and hear what your images are trying to communicate.
What do you consider to be the axis of your work – technically and conceptually?
I mainly consider moods and emotions from my subjects and also take into account everything to the finest detail. When I pick up the camera and look into the frame I am looking for a mood which reflects back to my own state of mind. I also try to be loose and free-spirited with my camera just in case I see something more meaningful.
What qualities and characteristics does a good photographer need?
I think photographers in order to be good have to make photography a life long study.
What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes? Especially keeping in mind the over abundance of photographic imagery in today’s society.
As a photographer I just know when I have taken a great photo. A great photo to me will stand out and move me so much that I am constantly viewing it and coming back to study it because of the impact that it has on me. I also think that if a photo is great it will be timeless and others will also see the greatness which I see in it.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?
I draw inspiration from everything. For my last project I documented what is was like to be in Barber College and cutting hair. Before that I was making still lives. It all starts for me with various ideas that motivate me or inspire me to shoot. I get inspiration from going to the movies, museums, art galleries, looking at photo magazines and just staying active with my camera. I am constantly thinking of new ideas to photograph.
What kind of photography equipment and photographic supplies do you use?
I use a Leica at this time.
What’s your favorite website about photography?
My Favorite websites right now are those of my two closest friends: Mike Lee www.eelekim.virb.com and Curtis Wallen www.curtiswallen.com.
What photography book would you recommend?
“Untitled Photographs” by Tim Barber. I got this book last year. I just think everyone who is just starting out, or might need some inspiration should check this book out.
Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a (professional) photographer?
Market yourself like crazy and make photos everyday!
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© Brian Pescador
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© Brian Pescador
