INTERVIEW
March 30, 2020
A LIGHT FANTASTIC
Photography by Adam Sinclair
Interview by John St.
Adam Sinclair is a Melbourne based photographer whose arresting street photography captures the vibrancy and culture of the city in captivatingly creative ways. Throughout his works, he skillfully employs intense colors and deep shadows to craft mesmerising compositions that evoke strong emotions and tells a story. Evocative, enigmatic, and full of surprises, Adam's photographs bring to life the streets of Melbourne, inviting viewers on an exploration of the city like never before. With a passion for capturing the underlying beauty and spirit of his hometown, Adam has become renowned for his captivating photographic artistry that captures the essence of the city in a unique and unforgettable way.
“I started in black and white doing mostly street portraits and reportage. Now I look for strong composition elements, fascinating humans and great colours of course!”
IN CONVERSATION WITH ADAM SINCLAIR
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Adam, please tell us when the spark started for photography?
ADAM SINCLAIR: Some friends bought me a photo book about Henri Cartier Bresson ten years ago, so I spent the next several years with a camera being awful. Though I didn’t really get into street photography until October 2019.
TPL: Where do you find your inspiration?
AS: I love the colours and textures of urban centres. So many unintentionally beautiful scenes! Also fashion for me is a huge inspiration, I find it endlessly amazing looking at what people wear, and how they wear it.
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists or photographers you would like to share with us, and the reason for their significance?
AS: I adore Saul Leiter especially ‘Early Color’. He was mostly responsible for my transition from black and white to colour. And my talented friends on Instagram are a daily dose of inspiration. (they know who they are!)
TPL: Where is your favourite place to shoot?
AS: My home town of Melbourne inspires me always. I think doing street made me fall in love with the place all over again.
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
AS: No. Some of my favourite images have been shot on a phone. I think vision and a keen eye for detail, shape, line, texture, light and shadow are the most important. I would say…just go and shoot! We can’t improve if we don’t press the button!
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a good photographer? What’s your tips or advice for someone in your genre?
AS: Curiosity. Fascination. Patience… And a love of people! Oh, and a dash of confidence for good measure.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the artistic world before photography?
AS: Yes, I spent some time as a designer in my much younger years. I’m also a singer.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
AS: My website ‘Indistreet’ is my current project that will be an amalgamation of photography, short stories and a store, should people ever want something for an empty wall. Watch this space.
TPL: "If I wasn't photographing what would I be doing?...
AS: Hmm, probably singing under a bridge somewhere by the river collecting meagre donations haha!"
Adam's passion for his home city of Melbourne is evident in his work, which highlights the beauty of the city through strong compositions, a knowledge of light and colour, and striking contrasts. His artistry is truly remarkable and is sure to inspire any onlooker. If you want to experience the world as Adam sees it, connect with him through Instagram and explore his unique view of the city.
