Kent McDonald is inspired by the lush forests where you have your house in the Vancouver Island, and uses them to cultivate a colorful inner life. Photography is the preferred medium for expressing your inner existence, which takes the form of mysterious and wonderful self-portraits. This artistic activity is the shelter from stress, to lead a modern life full of schedules and school work.
In your work, you will often find a beautiful balance between light and shadow that introduces us to history while inviting us to discover our own meaning. Here is a interview they did to Kent MacDonald, where he investigates their secrets.
Can you tell us a little about your journey in photography?
Looking back now I would have to say that I was quite reluctant to even use a camera. It's silly to think that at some point in my life I resisted. Originally it was about my sister, Kapri, who wanted to be a photographer. Despite the fact that he is a year and a half older than me, many people have mistaken us for twins. I felt that photography was his thing, and I didn't want to take that job away from him, and set us apart. It's silly to think that way, I know, but I ended up going on a trip to school when I was in the eighth grade, and carrying a sister digital camera. I decided to buy my own DSLR the following summer, and I haven't stopped shooting since.
What are some of your interests?
I've been so consumed by work and school that I haven't had much time for anything so I guess I can say just photography. I always try to have the time for photography. But the ideal is that I would love to travel more, play with my instruments, draw, even to read more would be fine.
What does photography mean to you?
Photography has become a part of me, it is an extension of my mind. I've been so dedicated to her in the past year that I can't imagine my life without her. Every time I'm stressed, I can just pick up my camera, go on an adventure, and instantly find my peace.
Incorporate imaginative concepts into your photos. What keeps you inspired?
When I started photography, I found my inspiration in music. But when I started my 365 degree project, taking one photo a day for a year, it became difficult to create. I wanted to do something new every day. I wanted to push myself to be a better photographer. I let myself be carried away by the pressure of perfection, and I started doing what would make me happy.
How much time do you spend?
When I was working on my 365 project, I stopped planning in every detail, and ended up creating what came to mind those days. Time was a luxury for me and it wasn't something I could afford, even now I don't do a lot of long-term planning.
A large part of his work consists of self-portraits. Can you tell us a little about how to get the perfect shot?
It has been an interesting process, at the beginning of my 365 project I was shooting with a Nikon D3100. I had no idea, just a self-timer and a tripod. When they finally gave me a Canon 6D all that changed. Now sync the phone to the camera, handing me a live stream view, and I use it as my wireless trigger. It's honestly so much easier as I can get the perfect shot so much faster now.
How do you light your photos? Do you use artificial or natural light?
For the most part natural lighting. Partly because the sun is free. The artificial lighting that I have access to is simply too harsh.
What is a must have in your gear bag?
In my bag I only have my camera and a lens. But as long as you have a good camera and a good idea you don't really need anything else.
