Benjamin Swanson
Benjamin Swanson is a Still Life based Photographer, working in the UK. Coming from a background in Sculpture, Benjamin moved into Photography, specialising in object orientated works. His artworks have been exhibited in Switzerland, New York, Mexico and many other locations. Benjamin has established himself as a commercial photographer, shooting for clients such as Hay, Nike, Louis Vuitton, Wallpaper*, Port Magazine and many more.
Please could you tell us a little more about your work and process?
I am an object oriented photographer. My interest in objects stemmed from my background in Fine Art Sculpture, which then evolved into a love of light and photography. Still Life as a discipline is quite hands on and methodological, whilst also being heavily concept based. I specifically enjoy working with designers, and am really interested in project based design and innovation and find it really stimulating working with other creators.
What was your inspiration behind this shoot? What you wanted to achieve etc?
Freedom to exist have a definitive approach, which is to be uncomplicated and enhance living. I wanted to make images which were uncomplicated and graceful, yet added character to the forms. I saw this shoot as an opportunity to showcase details of the watches in a fluid way which leads the eye over the contours of the watches, whilst giving a tonal experience of the materials through the use of light.
When do you feel most free?
Still life shoots are very immersive, especially as they are so hands on. It may sound like a contradiction, but I feel most free when I am shooting- because that is when I am most in control.
Which watch you chose & why?
I chose the fte4007M because I liked the simplicity of an all black watch with the gunmetal hands, the gunmetal details look really great when they catch the light. I am lucky enough to own a few watches so I wanted something a little different, more sophisticated than my others. This watch has a quick release interchangeable strap option, so it is very versatile. I can wear it while on jobs, or out for dinner!
