Friday Art Star: Dylan Hollingsworth

Dylan is a young Professional Photographer, who has a focused mind for conceptual work. He offers a varied style, but all of his images communicate a strong message or feeling. Earlier this week, we featured one of his images in our daily PIX section. We decided to ask Dylan a few questions about his philosophy and work……

When did you become interested in photography?

April 2007. Hal Samples handed me a camera and 14 hours later I knew my life had changed. I am extremely grateful for Hal for sharing his time, experience, equipment and most of all helping me step beyond my self imposed limitations and see that there is little I can’t do. We choose our own adventure. There are many others as well who have been beneficial to my path and progress. Thank God for The Gatekeepers. Always watch for The Gatekeepers. And be one.

What do you shoot with?

I got my first camera 13 months ago, a canon 20d. Anytime I shoot anything for print or pay I rent or borrow, usually a canon 5d. Love that camera. Very grateful to say that I just ordered the 5d mark II and should get it in the mail today or tomorrow. I have shot alot in 2 years but have rarely had the equipment at my disposal to get up and go every time I have a concept or assignment. I’m looking forward to this changing. A good shot is a good shot and I know people who take stellar shots with point and shoot cameras. I’ve just developed a higher standard for the image quality I want to share and that I also need to provide to make a living.

What are your opinions on film versus digital processing?

I have no experience with film. I respect the art within and assume something must get lost in the digital trip. I hear alot of people discount other photographers because they take a different path to get to the same place. Human beings are always attempting to feel unique or more accomplished by separating themselves from others. I try to be accepting and inclusive and appreciate others who do the same. In the end, I am concerned with images that take me somewhere, move me and capture something substantial.

Your photographs succeed in provoking emotion. Is this what you set out to do every day when you wake up?

I am pleased when I am able to do this, yes. Anytime I can document a piece of what its like to be alive, feel, struggle etc. I have done my job. I catch alot of candid/life as it happens moments and along with that I like to create light conceptual work. I like abstract things that touch on the human condition. Our journeys, how we know and treat ourselves and others, ideas about God and spiritual principles… these things matter to me and what I do with them will matter on the day my body fails. Little else does. I like imagery that pushes me to examine and engage in this life. Maybe I take myself too seriously. We’ll all know soon, won’t we? 10 out of 10 die.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere and in everyone. I see good and bad, have accepted them both as part of life and think they are both useful and necessary. Life tells stories and I just listen and retell it the way I want it told. Sometimes I look around for this stellar shot or idea and then I see someone right in front of me take a magnificent shot that was there and available all along. Its hard to see in all directions at once. There is room for everyone to have their niche. I still shoot a really diverse assortment of content. An experienced photographer can look at my work and tell you that I am all over the place and haven’t found my exact spot. I’m okay with that. I am open to it unfolding as it should. In the meantime, I love shooting just to shoot and yet am also making a living for my daughter just by doing what I love. Its a wonderful life.