Artist Interview: Photographer Bryony Jade
How do you describe what you do?
As a photographer, I think it’s really important for me to make female subjects feel great about themselves. I like to empower women by photographing their natural selves - and to put something out there that they can look at and be like "hey, I look goooooood!"
Commercially I specialise in headshots and event work, but always take with me the values of making my subjects feel great about their own self-image and identity.
How is COVID-19 affecting your practice?
It’s affecting my projects massively, but I’ve definitely got on board with ‘digital networking’ and attempted some experimentation with virtual shoots. In a way it’s broken down barriers with my subjects as I'm not pointing a camera directly at them. So I’ve got to know my subjects more intimately, in a different way.
I find during these times it’s great to speak to someone outside your immediate circle, puts things into perspective and gets you chatting with new people.
What piece are you most proud of?
I would have to say my Zine ‘Honies’. It was a really old project,, and it really opened up themes for feminist motivation in the rest of my work. It was inspired by the slang word Honnie (hot girl). I wanted to find an alternative gaze to the socially constructed ideal of a woman's body, and wanted to portray raw and natural images of women.
What's on your desk ATM?
Crystals, undeveloped film, a vase the shape of a woman's torso (full of flowers) and a fresh brew!
Who or what has impacted your work?
The dream-like feminine gaze like the work of Petra Collins andChloe Sheppard, who first influenced me to photograph women. More locally, I’m really inspired byRosie Foster’s raw depiction of the female form.
How do you seek out opportunities?
Networking mainly, or being recommended through a friend. Instagram is a great tool for photographers- I’ve had lots of great inquiries coming through DMs!
I think as an artist it's always important to find a style that makes you stand out, or offer something someone can only come to you for.
What three things have you learnt from in your working experience?
1. Don’t let social media dictate what work you are proud of.
2. You are where you are meant to be. Don't rush things because you're comparing yourself to others' success.
3. Don't be afraid to still experiment with work after leaving education.