Photo artist interview #13 - Matthew Reamer

• In 1 word, what do you shoot?

Oneness

• What’s your weapon of choice?

I’ve been using my Mamiya 7 a lot lately, after shooting Hasselblad for a long time. It was hard to adjust to the rangefinder and 6x7 format, but I’m getting used to it and it’s nice to not have to carry around a light meter.

• Stomping grounds?

41510, 410

• Why do you take pictures?

I used to be driven by a desire to create awareness and somehow make the world a better place through photography, but never quite got into the kind of work that I felt was really important. I’m still interested in that but now I shoot for way less noble reasons as well. I love the situations that a camera can get you into, the people you meet, the resulting stories. It’s kind of a pass to anywhere, or at least makes you feel like you have a reason to be there. Also, fun, art, money, boobs.

• Sleep, Eat, Sleepwalk while eating?

Sleat

• B&W or Color?

Depends

• Film or Digital?

Film, until I scan it and make it digital.

• Studio or Location?

Low Kay Shun

• Carl or Meatwad?

Hardest Question Ever

• What is your most treasured possession?

Negs.

• Favorite book?

Are you making a Facebook profile for me? I dunno, Catch 22?

• Photographers that inspire you?

Gordon Parks is my favorite dude ever. Also Nactwey, Jonas Bendiksen, Mary Ellen Mark, plenty of others.

• Advice for the younglings out there looking through their first viewfinder?

I don’t know that I’m qualified to be giving such advice yet, but I guess I’d encourage people to take risks and don’t be scurred. Grab your proverbial balls and jump in.

• What’s the story behind the photo below?

I was on an assisting gig in Sierra City, in the foothills. We met this dude outside the bar and he was just hella cool, a gold prospector. I took a few flicks of him outside the bar, nothing too exiting. On the way out of town, some guys told us where to find his claim, so we went down there to check him out. He showed us around and explained how they dredge for gold in the river. The Beringer he is for protection from bears.

• Any future projects or travels?

Some of my Scraper Bike shots are currently in an exhibit at the Oakland airport. I’m just starting to scan an ongoing project that focuses on some very specific discarded items. No travel plans currently, but I’m definitely getting the itch.

• Where can we see more of your work?

www.matthewreamer.com

• In 1 word, last thing you’d say if time stopped right NOW?

Wait!


Photo courtesy of the artist "Matthew Reamer"

Thank You

T2