Bio.
Nick Barber is a photographer born and raised in North London. He studied photography at the London College of Communications where he was awarded a distinction for his work. He lives and works in London where he is constantly adding to his broad portfolio encompassing portraiture, street photography, music and all things in-between reflecting a wide spectrum of passions.
1) Can you tell us something about you?
I’m a 22 years old lens-based artist from London.
2) Where do you live and work now?
I live and work in London as I have done my whole life. I find London a great city to live in as a photographer. Round every corner there’s always something new, in a city rich in diverse culture. The city is a great inspiration for my work.
3) When did you start to think about photography?
For as long as I can remember I have always loved photography. I like to see the world through other people’s eyes. I was given a digital camera as a birthday gift one year. I would take pictures of all most anything. I only started thinking about it seriously in the last few years.
4) Where your inspiration comes from?
My inspiration comes from all around me; my grandfather was my first real inspiration, as an amateur photographer he would always be behind a camera. Everyday something new inspires me, from people in the street, to films, documentaries and music. I enjoy watching films, focussing on the cinematography within each film. The way they are shot and the meaning behind it always interests me. Music also is a great inspiration for me as it is the focus behind some of my subjects.
5) What does it mean for you streetphotography?
Taking photographs of life as it is, from fashion to social matters are of great interest to me. Street Photography is a great way to document society and show a personal view of all walks of life. I look forward to the day I can look back at my own work and see how street imagery has changed over the years. Street Photography will be forever changing.
6) When you take a portrait, what is important for you?
I think the most important thing with a portrait is to make it look as natural as possible. For me it’s important to try and bring out as much of the subjects personality whilst making them feel comfortable when taking their photo. Composition and lighting are also a major factor.
7) Do you think it’s important to follow a school to learn how to shoot?
I think the most important thing is to have a passion for taking photographs. Anyone can take a photograph and as long as you get out there and do it, you can take some great photos. I also think it is a good idea to learn the basics of photography to get the best results from the technical aspects of the art. I studied a years course in Photography at LCC in south London, which gave the confidence and knowledge to take photographs at a much more professional level. Ultimately I found getting hands on experience and assisting established photographers a great way to gain valuable experience.
8.) What’s the photo you want to take and you never did?
I come across this situation all the time. I can’t think of a specific time, but it gets on my nerves because there’s always something interesting I want to photograph and I don’t have my camera.
9) What’s your photo-mission?
I hope to just capture moments in time that will last forever. I want to show other people things in a different and unique way.
