Emily Davidson is a professional photographer from Canberra, Australia. Although Emily is currently extremely busy working as the primary agency photographer for Victoria’s Models in Canberra, as well as working on various other wildlife and commercial projects we were delighted when Emily agreed to complete a spotlight interview for Urbanity Chic so we could showcase some of her impressive work and share some of her experiences with you. Read on to find out about what fashion means to Emily, what she’s been working on for the past 12 months and what she does to relax when not working.
Emily Davidson Photography
Emily Davidson Photography
Guess
How did you get into professional photography?
I studied photography for three years at the Canberra Institute of Technology. I then started assisting for one of my teachers, a very talented wedding and portrait photographer. In my first year out of study I started working as the primary agency photographer for Victoria’s Models (http://www.victoriasmodels.com.au) . I have worked as a model for the agency since I was 15, so when the opportunity came up I jumped at the chance.
What do you most enjoy photographing?
I very much enjoy photographing people, as I love that every person brings something different to their shoot. I also love combining my passion for travel with photography, and there’s nothing better than getting out into nature and photographing wildlife.
How was 2010 for you?
2010 was a year of growth and learning. I worked very hard and consumed myself with photography. For 6 months of the year I was working at a portrait studio, something I was not truly happy doing, but by the end of last year I had a much clearer idea of what my own style of photography is, and in discovering this I felt I was being true to myself. The mistakes that I made were a big learning curve for me.
Who inspires you?
I could give you a long list of amazing photographers that I admire and respect, but if I had to pick one, it would be wedding photographer Jasmine Star. Her openness to teach other photographers and to share her own journey makes her blog my first stop when I’m looking to feel inspired.
Emily Davidson Photography
Emily Davidson Photography
Hypnose Senses
In your opinion, what makes a good photographer?
A good photographer sees the world in a unique way. When most people would walk past a scene without taking a second look, a good photographer sees something others don’t.
Do you prefer using film cameras or digital?
I love the immediacy of digital- the rush of excitement you feel when you look on the back of the camera and know that you’ve got ‘the shot’.
Do you prefer to shoot on location or in the studio?
I am inspired by my surroundings- I see the world as my studio. I respond to what I see and I love photographing a location in my own way. I’m always saying that one day I will have an accident on the road, as new locations constantly catch my eye as I’m driving past!
Do you have a particular style of photography that makes you unique?
My style of photography is clean and classic. SIMPLICITY is was I do best. I shoot with the intention to capture people at their best, while still remaining a true representation of the individual.
Do you have a favourite photograph?
Emily Davidson Photography - Emily's Favourite Photo
This photo is one of the first that appears on my website, it was one of my first fashion shoots and it still remains my favourite photo to this day. In one photo, it sums up what my photography is all about- a gorgeous, natural model, soft lighting, and a textured yet simple background.
Who is your favourite photographer?
Michelle Moore! An amazing fashion and senior portrait photographer, her bright, colourful, fresh images of women are something I aspire to.
Is there anybody you would like to work with (either behind or in front of the camera)?
South-African based clothing label LaLesso (http://www.lalesso.com). Their designs are bold, bright and youthful… I would love to shoot their designs! After falling in love with their style, I just happened to stumble across their store in Cape Town while on holiday in 2009. It really would be a dream job to shoot for them.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is an extension of an individual’s style and personality. Fashion means play time J
Where are you based?
Canberra, ACT.
Emily Davidson Photography
Emily Davidson Photography
Beyonce - Heat Rush
What’s it like being where you’re from?
From a photographic point of view, Canberra is fantastic. Here we are surrounded by the bush, we have incredible architectural buildings and rustic sheds, as well as the lake to work with (no matter how brown is may be!).
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
Getting published! My wildlife image ‘Elephants at Chobe’ was chosen to be printed onto Avant Cards (http://www.avantcard.com.au) and distributed nationally in cafes, restaurants and schools.
What are you hoping to achieve in 2011?
At the start of the year, my goals for 2011 were:
- Display my work in upcoming exhibitions.
- Enter photography competition International Loupe Awards.
- Create look book to showcase my fashion work to date.
- Travel to Europe and build upon travel and landscape portfolio.
Emily Davidson Photography
Emily Davidson Photography
Kim Kardashian - Gold
What do you do to relax?
Play soccer, dance, surf, travel, laugh!
What songs are on your iPod at the moment?
Party Rock Anthem- LMFAMO
Pumped Up Kicks- Foster the People
Somebody That I Used to Know- Goyte
You Make Me Feel So… -- Cobra Starship
If you could give a little piece of advice for aspiring photographers what would it be?
Be true to your own style, work hard and never give up on your goals.
What motivates you to do what you do?
The pure satisfaction of creating a piece of art that didn’t exist a moment ago. Photographing the world how I see it is empowering and extremely special to me.
Emily Davidson Photography
Emily Davidson Photography
Levi's
Editor’s Note: Emily is an excellent fashion photographer who somehow has that enviable quality of bringing out her muse’s personality in every shot. Definitely one of Urbanity Chic’s one’s to watch!
If you’d like to learn more about or contact Emily Davidson just follow the links below:
Website link: www.ed-photography.com
Blog: http://em-davidson.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Emily-Davidson-Photography/155794931164463
Victoria’s Models: http://www.victoriasmodels.com.au
About Urbanity Chic
