Grant Ellis

Grant Ellis (born 1980) is a contemporary photographer from Cleveland, Mississippi but currently residing in New York. He studied photography at “Memphis College of Art”.

Grant Ellis is currently running a Kickstarter campaign to fund his project “Bless Your Heart”. There’s another interview with him on this site: “The Details That Make Up Life”.

Artist statement

“I just take pictures. Sorry, not a big fan of artist statements. Has anyone ever read let’s say Basquit’s artist statement? I’m not sure he has one.”

Interview with Grant Ellis

Grant, why did you become a photographer? And what does photography mean to you?

Because it’s an amazing way to connect to the world around you.

How would you describe your photographic language and creative process? How do you plan and execute a project? Both technically and conceptually?

I think the way I make a body of work is to go to a place I have always wanted to visit and just start shooting. I return home and edit like crazy to select the best images describing the journey.

Which photographer has inspired you most?

W. Eugene Smith.

When I say his Pittsburgh project at ICP. I was blown away.

What’s your favorite inspirational quote about photography?

Don’t got one. I guess who ever might say”get out and shoot”.

What kind of camera and equipment do you use?

Canon 5d, a nikon d700 and a mamiya rz76.

What’s your favorite website about photography?

This is pretty cool but they need to update some footage: www.camerabag.tv.

What book about photography would you recommend?

“Pittsburg Project” by W. Eugene Smith it did something to me.

Which advice would you give someone who wants to get started with photography?

Learn the business side. I can’t figure it out.

More about Grant Ellis

Website

Instagram