Hey Joseph, thanks so much for taking your time to answer my questions. So how did you start your photographer career? Did you think about being a photographer when you were small?
I always knew I wanted to be in the “Arts”, even at a young age. I tried drawing, sculpting, plus design. Then I picked up a 35mm film camera (yes I said film camera) and it stuck with me ever since. I started taking pictures when I was in high school ,which was a very long time ago. I attended Humber College for photography, graduated, and began working right away. In total I have been working in the industry for 10 years, 2 years of assisting, and 8 years of shooting. (I feel old) ;o)
I really wish I had the chance to study in a college for photography and I don't think you are that old at all, at least your works are showing the youthful side of you. Who have influenced your photography style?
In terms of influences I have a few photographers that really inspire me. Like other types of artists I get inspiration from things around me. Painters, illustrators, even singers can inspire or influence the beginning of a shoot. Some of the photographers that inspire me include: Steven Meisel, Steven Klein, Craig McDean, Solve Sundsbo, Mitchell Feinberg, and a very good friend of mine Natasha V.
Steven Meisel and Craig McDean are definitely on my list and I love the latest McQueen ad campaign that is done by McDean. I am very curious about this, when did you get you break through? Did you get a lot opportunities afterwards?
Well I have had many breaks and re-introductions to the industry, but I have to say about a year ago was my biggest break through.
I decided to change my style of photography and open my own studio. I started shooting things that I wanted to shoot, in a way that makes me happy. I was no longer forced to follow trends or to mimic what other people were doing. It was a chance that paid off in the end.
Now I wish I could have a chance to visit your studio and practice my skills, haha. Overall, which shoot was your most difficult one to shoot? What happened?
Every shoot has its challenges, I tend to work better under pressure. I recall a time where I was on location, I had 2 hours to shoot including hair and make-up, plus had I to shoot 6 looks. The shoot went very quickly, and ending up being a great editorial after all the stress.
I guess human beings in general just like to work under pressure so they can produce the best works. If you can meet any of the famous fashion photographers in the world, who will you want to meet and why?
If I could meet anybody, I think it would be Steven Klein. I have always been a fan of his work. He is a true inspiration, he creates beautiful images that are not just about fashion and trends, he focuses on social issues as well. At the end of the day, aren’t we all just a bit famous? ;o)
I wish you will be able to meet him one day. Right now you are a fashion photographer based in Toronto, are you planning to move to somewhere in the future? If so, where are you planning to go?
Toronto is a good starting point. To truly ‘make it’ or better yet ‘get noticed’, you have to be in New York.
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Now is time to get to know Joseph on a more personal level. (This has just become my signature for interviews).
Ham or Bacon?
Spicy Italian Sausage
Toronto or LA?
Toronto will always be home but I love New York
Winter or Summer?
I’m a summer baby, but I like all seasons, especially the Fall (I like my sweaters)
Studio Lights or Speed Lights?
Studio Lights
Film or Digital?
I shoot digital now, but I started out shooting film. I couldn’t imagine shooting a job with film now, but there is something beautiful about film grain.
Red or Pink?
Grey
Chanel or Dior?
Alexander McQueen
Agyness Deyn or Miranda Kerr?
Hands down Agyness Deyn
Lamborghini or Mercedes Benz?
Volkswagen
MTV or CNN?
Space or HGTV
Thank you so much to Joseph for showing me some wonderful photos in this feature. I wish him all the best and I believe he will be a big photographer in the future. Can't wait to see him in New York! If you want to see more of his works, please check his official website. All photos in this entry are courtesy Joseph Saraceno
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