The biggest sin that certainly I could commit is to be sort of closed-minded and judgmental… the best thing for me to be is curious, and it’s through curiosity that I’ll learn, and it’s through that curiosity that I’ll probably start to take better pictures.
Andrew Cameron
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Andrew Cameron’s career is a strong message about the power of authenticity and human connection. With a background spanning documentary and industrial photography, Andrew has honed a deeply compelling approach to visual storytelling. His work doesn’t just capture moments—it reveals the soul of his subjects, from corporate entities striving for social responsibility to communities often overlooked.
Over the years, Andrew has photographed many stories, shedding light on social impact, sustainability, and the often untold narratives within industries. His preference for black-and-white photography adds an emotive depth to his images, ensuring that every story is as honest as it is captivating. Andrew is also the author of Making Documentary Photography, a practical guide designed to inspire and empower photographers to explore authentic storytelling through their lens.
Guided by an insatiable curiosity, Andrew believes that staying open-minded can transform not only how we photograph the world but also how we perceive it.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:
- Andrew shares the importance of aligning creative vision with client objectives, striking the perfect harmony between storytelling and practicality.
- We explore how black-and-white photography enhances authenticity and draws the viewer closer to the story.
- Andrew reflects on his philosophy that curiosity and empathy are the foundation for meaningful stories and impactful photography.
Join us for this episode as Andrew unpacks his fascinating creative process, the lessons he’s learned through documentary work, and how photography connects us to the world on a deeper level. Enjoy the conversation!
Q: What is it about black-and-white photography that resonates with you personally and with your audience?
Andrew: Black-and-white photography allows me to show the world in a way people don’t usually see it. It removes distractions, like bright colors in the background, and focuses attention on the subject. For example, I once photographed a nun laughing, and in color, the yellow lines on the road behind her would have been distracting. In black and white, all you see is her joy. It’s a way to ensure the viewer sees what I want them to see.
Q: What first drew you to photography? Was it documentary photography, or did you start with something else?
Andrew: It was documentary photography, yeah. My career started in the theatre, and I ran a theatre company and an arts center. While there, I was asked to direct actors in a training video, which led me to corporate video production. Over time, I got interested in photography, started experimenting, and eventually transitioned into documentary photography. It became a much bigger part of my life about ten years ago, and I’ve been pursuing it seriously ever since.
Q: What do you find most fulfilling about telling these kinds of stories?
Andrew: It’s about meeting people. I love learning about their lives and seeing things from their perspective. For example, I worked on a project with a homeless charity, and my perception of homelessness completely changed. I realized the importance of staying curious and open-minded because it’s through those connections and stories that I grow as a photographer and as a person.
Key Links and Mentions From the Episode
His book – Making Documentary Photography
People Mentioned
- Zoe Hiljemark – A PR specialist who helps photographers like Andrew navigate marketing and visibility, playing a key role in promoting his work and exhibitions.
- Sebastião Salgado – Renowned documentary photographer known for long-term projects like Genesis, which inspire Andrew’s approach to storytelling.
- Scott Kivowitz – Photographer and podcast host who uses black-and-white photography to overcome colorblindness, showcasing the power of tonal storytelling.
Tools & Gear
- Leica Q – Andrew’s go-to camera for its simplicity and ability to capture authentic, documentary-style images.
- Lumix S1R – A versatile camera Andrew uses for detailed shots in industrial and community settings.
- Black-and-White Viewfinder – A feature Andrew uses to visualize his final images in black and white while shooting.
Projects & Opportunities
- Making Documentary Photography – Andrew’s book offering practical guidance for photographers interested in authentic storytelling. Available on Amazon and as a free download on his website.
- Homelessness Documentary Project – A year-long project documenting the stories of homeless individuals in the UK, culminating in an impactful exhibition.
- Jaywick Documentary – Andrew’s ongoing project exploring the lives and resilience of residents in the UK’s most impoverished town.
Places and Locations
- Jaywick, UK – The focus of Andrew’s current project, challenging stereotypes about the community.
- South Coast, UK – Location of Andrew’s homelessness exhibition, which raised significant funds for charity.
- Hamilton, Canada – A recent destination where Andrew worked on a project, highlighting his global reach.
Key Themes Discussed
- Authenticity in Storytelling – Andrew’s belief in capturing real moments to build trust and convey impactful narratives.
- The Power of Black-and-White Photography – How Andrew uses this medium to remove distractions and focus on the essence of his subjects.
- Curiosity and Connection – Andrew’s philosophy that staying open-minded leads to better photography and deeper human connections.
- Sustainability and Social Impact – Andrew’s work with organizations to document ESG and CSR initiatives authentically.
- The Picture Superiority Effect – Andrew’s insight into how images communicate faster and more effectively than text in today’s fast-paced world.
