We’ve had the pleasure of working with a number of skilled and talented photographers and filmmakers; one of whom is Nick Rees. Nick is a photographer and director who specialises in drinks and liquids. Based in London, he has used Direct Digital kit from our London branch on a number of occasions to capture his light-fracturing and transformative images. Recently, Nick used Direct Studio to film a short video called Balloon Drop – the striking slow-motion images got us thinking about his work and relationship to Direct Digital.
Nick kindly agreed to answer a few questions for us, including why he chooses to work with us on his projects and reveals that he finds inspiration in the every day, loves photographing his family, and, while he prefers location shoots, the studio is more conducive to the precision control required to achieve those images.
How did you get into photography?
I started taking pictures before leaving school, I took a few evening classes and loved everything about it. I did a degree at Norwich art school which let me take pictures full time, I’ve not looked back since.
How would you describe your style and how did you discover it?
My style began to develop at university, I had the time to photograph anything I liked. It’s a great opportunity to be able to spend time pottering about and trying things. I did everything I could when I was there but, ultimately, I really enjoyed having a blank canvas in the studio. Still life allows me to be the master of my image, I can layout and dictate every element of the picture. The idea of less is more is something that resonates with me I really like simple strong design. With still life, I can take an everyday object, something that might be one piece on a product line of a million and make it a hero, give it a bigger identity.
What are some of your favourite projects to have worked on?
Given the choice, I could quite happily just photograph my family for the next 50 years. Although professionally I do love the opportunity to work on location; everything is slightly more exciting than a studio, not quite as comfortable though.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I get inspired by lots of little things, from raindrops to stars. The world in front of me is constantly interesting in its breadth and limitations. I jump at the opportunity to travel, I love how so many small mundane things are different, giving the impression of huge diversity.
Why do you choose to use Direct Digital?
I’ve been working with Direct since I moved to London.
I always feel reassured that there’s someone who’s looking after the equipment, in the same way, I would, someone who will check that all the small details have been considered. Apart from the staff I know that if I ring up last minute, they’ve got the capacity to make a shoot happen, it lets me worry about other things.
What kind of equipment do you like using?
I use a broad range of kit, from medium format cameras to high-speed film cameras, high-speed flash to big heavy tungsten lights. Each different project needs specific equipment to make it work, but there is something nice about a room full of twin heads popping.
Any future projects that you’re working on?
I’m working on a short film project at the moment, trying to bring together a few more food elements into my drinks work, along with a more human presence.
To follow Nick’s work, check out his portfolio on his website and keep an eye on this space and our Facebook and Instagram accounts.