Let us introduce you to Christof.
One of the artists featured in our new FotoExhibit #2 exhibition, launching with First Thursdays at Cameraland this week, can trace his photographic inclinations as far back as he can remember. It all started with his two grandfathers and their dabbling in the magic that is photography. Christof’s curiosity became intrigue and eventually evolved into a full-on obsession. A darkroom in the garage was followed by a degree in photography. Hard work and perseverance paved his way to Europe, where he jumped at every opportunity to pick the brains of master photographers.
Led by the pursuit of knowledge and the understanding of light, Christof developed into a photographer. He calls Cape Town home and this is where he practices patience while struggling with the great questions of life and fighting the unseen war against conformity.
Christof shares his life with his wife, Adél, two sons, Matthijs and Anton, as well as a wired hair fox terrier called Frikkie. His ambition is to craft beautiful photographs into being, using the highest level of dedication, passion and skill. He applies these principles whenever he picks up his camera – whether it is to realise his own ideas or to give form to someone else’s creative vision.
1. How would you classify your photographic style and who inspires you?
I'd say my style is 'over-dramatised and romantic’. I like to have a sense of humour or clever little something form part of my images. Sometimes though, a beautiful scene in beautiful light is all that is required.
I am and will always be inspired by Arnold Newman. His portraits are just breath-taking. I find inspiration in random Instagrammers I come across: Jack Lowe being one of the more recent finds. He shoots using the Collodion Wet plate Process on 10 x 12 glass plates and is busy documenting the 237RNLI lifeboat stations in the UK.
2. What is it that draws you to pick up your camera and take a photo?
I usually mull over an idea for a while, convincing myself it’s not good enough before I decide to do it anyway. I’ll easily take plates of the sky for my cloud library but I don’t really document. It’s almost always a preconceived idea that I implement in collaboration or by myself.
3. What type of gear do you use and do you have any favourites?
I use Canon and Hasselblad depending on what the situation requires. My favourite being the Hasselblad H4D50 with the 28mm f4 lens.
4. What would be your ultimate shot and how would you shoot it?
I live very much in the moment, so the future doesn't really exist for me till I'm in it. To answer the question I’d say every shot I’m busy with is my ultimate shot, until it’s done, then the next one is. I'll think of what the shot requires lighting wise and I’ll find the angle I like the most. Then, if available light is also a factor, I will wait till it’s at its most beautiful and then click the shutter release button.
5. What is the most challenging part of photographing your preferred subject
Managing the crowd of people and all the opinions involved.
6. What’s next on the horizon that you’re most excited about?
I'm busy with a Land Rover Project celebrating the Defender.
7. If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice when you picked up the camera for the first time, what would it be?
Do not assist too long.
Website: www.waltphotography.co.za
