Interview: Photographer Alistair Cowin (United Kingdom)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I started out life as an Architect in London in the mid 60's but chaged to fashion design in 1971. I was also working as a professional racing driver at that time.

How and when did you get into photography? I got into photography when my fashion business was burned down in a huge fire in central London in 1983 and I had to think about doing something else to make a living.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography to me means the freedom of being my own boss when I can make all my own decisions, I don't need to employ lots of people to make it work and creatively it is very rewarding.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I like to call my self a typical 'old school' fashion photographer. This means I keep my pictures sharp, beautifully lit and I always make sure that my models look as beautiful in print as they do in real life.

Where do you get inspiration from? My inspiration always comes from my models first, the clothes second and my clients requirements third.

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?

No. The challenge for me is doing my best with what I have been given - a model, the clothes and the location.

Studio, on location or both?

Natural light studio or location - it's all the same to me!

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I am an 82 year old underpaid, overworked semi retired professional!

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

What has been your most memorable session and why?

The first time I shot with Cameron Diaz in California in 1992 when she was starting out as a teen model. At just 18 years old she was so engaging, confident and amusing that I knew from that first shoot with her that she was destined for greater things.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

My favourite camera is an old Sony A77 mirrorless body with a 70-200 f2.8 workhorse lens.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Don't shoot stills - moving images are the future.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I like it - and I'll like it even more if it features some of my work!

PHOTO WEBSITE: https://www.alistaircowin.co.uk

EDITORIAL PORTFOLIO: https://kavyar.com/alistaircowin

FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/alcowin

INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/alistaircowin

Model: Amy Macdonald

(www.facebook.com/amy.r.macdonald)

Model: Alexa May Higson

(facebook.com/alexuss09)

Camilla L

Model: Charlie Barr

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