The Phoblographer Interview
The Phoblographer © 2023 ——Bridging Tech and Creative Photography
Check out the full interview here!
A while back near the middle of 2023, I was interviewed for a photo blog and that was really exciting for me.
I didn't share it much but I'd like to showcase it again; while adding some commentary to it.
All credits to
08/22/2023
Part 1
My identity as a queer artist and my passion for visual storytelling fuel my dedication to capturing these emotions in my work,” says photographer Daniel Blake (he/him/his) to the Phoblographer in an interview. “It’s about showcasing the beauty of vulnerability and the complexities of the human spirit. Being able to evoke emotions and create that bond with my audience is what drives me as an artist.” Dan continues to state that he’s sharing a part of his soul and inviting others to join him on an emotional journey. This idea permeates through his surreal photography.
Commentary
I would agree with myself that I am still giving a part of my soul out to those that view my work. It embodies the inner workings of my mind. But, I do find it more difficult to do so. In the way that I am discouraged by the commercialization of photography and the amount I have also been participating in. I used to only do conceptual portraits and that's what I wanted to thrive on and make album art with. But now; maybe I am taking the short route to the end goal and joining the cogs in the machine? I hope not, I truly hope I am just being dramatic and honestly part of me believes that I am. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love the work I have been doing commercially and all the amazing clients I have had and continue to have. I just know in my heart I need to be more creative and get those conceptual surreal pieces out of my head and into the world, and I will. The burn out is real.
Part 2
For Daniel, photography has always been a way for him to express himself when words fail him — and several other artists and photographers can relate. In the way that many readers were beguiled by the words and skill of Shakespeare, it’s easy to become smitten with his conceptual and surreal photography. And for Daniel, it’s always been about expression — specifically around the emotions that he’s feeling.
“Over the last few years, my focus has been on exploring deep emotional themes that resonate with me: heartache, loneliness, love, and melancholy,” he tells us. Daniel’s journey as a queer photographer has shaped his photographic style. It shows a unique perspective that it hard to see or find amongst many photographers.
Commentary
I still have difficult with words; so this whole blogging thing? I just hope you can understand me is all. My surreal and conceptual photography has always been the way for me. I was a very shy child; not so much anymore. But, I do still feel misunderstood as I once did so young. Sometimes I even misunderstand my own feelings. There certainly has been a shift, I don't want to photograph heartache as much anymore but I do still want to make more work around sad confusing and conflicting feelings. They are the feelings that many are scolded for or hide, and I think they should be embraced. Making art that others can relate to on a deep personal level is very important to me, but I think my new focus will aim towards understanding myself more, rather than having others understanding me.
"I’ve been particularly fascinated by the way memory fluctuates and influences our realities. It’s incredible how our minds can warp our perceptions, sometimes in ways we adore, and other times, we despise. This aspect adds a profound layer to my work, inviting viewers to ponder their own memories and emotions."
Part 3
Dan started out around 2009 — when Tumblr was all the rage. A self-described shy kid, he took a lot of self-portraits. Sometimes his father would help him realize his creative dreams, but otherwise, his work was often created alone. Dan drew inspiration from the surreal artwork on Flickr, which is where we found him.
Dan wanted to be a photographer from a young age, but thought that it was an unattainable dream — and he didn’t want to specialize in wedding photography. But as Dan continued to explore emotionally charged themes in his work, he started using it as his primary way to communicate his sense of isolation and vulnerability.
“During high school, I pursued photography courses and even volunteered for a photojournalism program in my senior year,” he tells us. “Around the same time, I was diagnosed with severe panic disorder, which further influenced and deepened the emotional aspect of my art.” From there, he went to community college, took a break while exploring his identity, and then returned to college, focusing on graphic design. But photography was always the main squeeze.
Commentary
I do miss spending time with my dad and dragging him out to the forest trails and hitting the shutter button on my camera. We did this in the dead of winter a few times too. I wasn't too shy in front of the camera with him!
I honestly some days still don't think I'm a "photographer". Sure I take photos and get paid for it, but I want to be a surreal photographer, I want to take photos that end up in galleries. Thats probably when I will fully feel like a true photographer, even though that should not be the case.
I am a photographer, but I am constantly learning and growing my craft. And that is what is important. I am having more fun again, getting out of a recent rut.
