Hamilton-based photographer Brooks Reynolds calls his work “an exploration of light,” and explains that, for this, the best canvas to work from is a quiet, dark place that allows him to build layers of light motivated by different sources to tell a story that is both believable and surreal.
“Often I am most inspired by some of Hollywood’s darker films and meeting the aesthetics of that with hidden rooms, abandoned areas and rural small town areas I find exploring towns around Ontario. The stories I tell in each photograph are simple moments with vulnerable individuals often in isolated self-reflection interrupted by a hint of the supernatural. The creative focus is to give a sense of mystery the viewer by offering objective vantage point while selectively still being pulled into the story through the perspective of the character being photographed.”
About 9 or 10 years, it wasn’t always a passion but when I get into something I tend to test the waters and then go all-in once I really find myself in it.
I really like to shoot people. And I really like cinematic looking shots, so when the two of those things come together I love it. It doesn’t need to have people in it but they provide a great focal point while also providing a conduit to connect the viewer to the photograph.
High-school photography with a pinhole camera. I got really lucky with a good photo on my first attempt and it hooked me. From there, I saved up some money to buy a camera and started shooting at the skate park every week and at punk shows on the weekend. As I learned how to light BMX photos, I really started chasing portraiture more and finding different ways of shooting them.
I went to high school, took photography there and then, when I applied, I didn’t get into university so I read as much as I could on the internet while experimenting a lot with trial and error.
I’m constantly inspired by different things: Tons of different photographers (Gregory Crewdson to Arnold Newman and everyone in between), lots of movies (Fight Club is my favorite), different artists (from Hopper to even Toronto’s Kris Knight). I also love finding pieces to a picture and building an idea from there. Finding new locations is really inspiring and appreciating different artists provides a perspective to appreciate different locations in different ways.
[flagallery gid=59 name=Gallery]It’s hard to pin-point one job, or showing or anything like that. I have a few photos of mine that I feel I did really well and that feels like a big accomplishment. I’ve done a few photos and a couple videos that I feel I’m particularly proud of, like I’ve arrived in a way.
I’ve actually recently shot my first short film. It is in post right now, working on the score and tightening everything up. Also, I’m continuing my current series of photos until I feel I can put a cap on it. I’ve got an idea for a short series next, so I’d love to get to that soon!
I have never really planned too far off. I try to have goals for each year and make sure I get them done. I’d love to do more film work with shorts, music videos and commercials and perhaps tackle a feature at some point while continuing developing my photography and taking photos I think are cool.
If you’re in the Mississauga or Toronto area, drop by Vistek to view his Brooks’ Photo Gallery, currently on display.
Now until November 23
What: Photo Gallery — An Exploration of Light by Brooks Reynolds
Where: Vistek Mississauga | 5840 Mavis Rd.
When: Monday through Friday 9am – 9pm | Saturday 9:30am – 6pm | Sunday 11am – 5pm
November 26 – December 31
What: Photo Gallery — An Exploration of Light by Brooks Reynolds
Where: Vistek Toronto | 496 Queen St. East
When: Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 6pm | Saturday 9:30am – 5:30pm