INTERVIEW
May 31, 2020
AFTER DARK
Photography by Jules Carr
Interview by Melanie Meggs
Jules Carr has always had an interest in photography, but it was only a couple of years ago that her interest was ignited into something much more intense. After experiencing a life changing event, Jules found herself feeling an emotional connection to the world around her, and started to notice the beauty of the ordinary. By exploring the ever-evolving urban landscape during the nighttime hours, Jules has been able to capture a cinematic atmosphere in her photographs. With each shot, she is striving to capture that one perfect moment that will stay suspended in time forever. Though Jules is not yet where she dreams of being, she is continuously experimenting and searching in the hopes of finding that elusive shot. Join us as we explore Jules’s journey and uncover the magical and mystical world she has created.
“I have been interested in photography for as long as I can remember, but I have only been taking it seriously relatively recently. Two years ago I was still snapping away on a smartphone, then I joined Instagram and became obsessed!”
IN CONVERSATION WITH JULES CARR
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Jules, where do you find your inspiration to photograph?
JULES CARR: Everywhere! I'm fascinated by the ordinary, the mundane, stillness, empty spaces.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the arts before photography?
JC: I've always been interested in art and design. I'm also a musician.
TPL: Who are your favourite artists/photographers?
JC: So many favourites! Photography wise, Julia Margaret Cameron, Lee Miller, Robert Frank, William Eggleston, Fred Herzog, Norman Parkinson, Don McCullin, Todd Hido, Joshua K. Jackson to name just a few. I particularly like mid 20th century American photography. Too many artists to mention, but I’d include Whistler, Grimshaw, Hopper, and Hockney.
TPL: Has your style of photographing changed since you first started?
JC: In many ways my compositions are not radically different these days, but I'd like to think they are more refined. My editing skills are definitely better than they used to be, thank goodness! I am learning all the time.
TPL: Where is your favourite place(s) to photograph?
JC: Empty urban landscapes, after dark.
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
JC: I think it very much depends on what you hope to achieve. You really don’t need expensive gear to produce great photos. For me personally, the image stabilisation on my Sony enables me to take great handheld shots in low light, which means I can take my camera anywhere without needing a tripod. Perfect for me as I like spontaneity and travelling light. My favourite lens is the cheapest I’ve bought: a vintage Zeiss Flektogon with bags of character.
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a photographer? What’s your tips or advice for someone just getting started in your genre?
JC: Hmmm…slight obsessive tendencies don’t go amiss! I notice frames everywhere I go, but I'd say my best shots are the ones that I have an emotional attachment to, that capture a mood. I don’t feel qualified to give advice, but I’d say take endless shots, and never stop looking!
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
JC: Like many photographers' in these unprecedented times, when the coronavirus lockdown started it seemed really important to me to document it. So began an exciting collaboration with photographer and musician James Bacon @thesheffieldlens, which has resulted in a still evolving online exhibition entitled “Still Life”.
This explores the poignant emptiness of the surreal urban landscape by day and by night. Caught between the loss and uncertainty, there is Still Life.
I am also concentrating on urban night photography at the moment, with a view to hopefully producing a photo book at some point.
TPL: "If I wasn't photographing what would I be doing?...
JC: Something musical!"
Jules Carr's journey into photography has been a wonderful and inspiring story of how life changes can spark and create a passion, and how creativity and experimentation can bring something truly special to the everyday. So if you're looking for a wonderful story, mesmerizing photographs, or simply some inspiration, be sure to follow Jules' journey by clicking the links below.
