All Photos by: Marlo Gamora
Full Name: Marlo Gamora
Age: 29
Currently Residing: NJ/NY
Currently Listening to: Pulp "Street Lites"
Equipment: Nikon, Hasselblad, Canon, Holga
If ever I wanted someone to take a portrait of me, it would have to be this man. This Marlo Gamora guy can really make a pretty picture. His aesthetically appealing photos compose a simplicity topically, but really capture a vivid story within. I really enjoy that despite his expertise with portraiture work he shines in many different lights. He can shoot a gorgeous landscape or make you believe that the table in that picture belongs in your house. It's quite influencial, his work; he makes you want whatever he shoots, including the people.The photos he shot at Dances of Vice were luscious. He really knew how to make those "characters" come to life but not once did he take away from the nostalgia of it all. I really am just in love with his pieces and that's the whole reason why we're here today....
When was the first time you picked up a camera?
I was about 5 years old. My father asked me to take a picture of him with his Canon FT. I use the same camera to this day. I still wonder how the picture turned out 24 years ago
How would you define your style? What do you think is unique about your shots and what techniques do you enjoy doing most with your photography?
I don't think about my "style" too much, but I suppose nostalgic wouldbe a good word to use. I love approaching a shoot with sort of a child's perspective in mind. Vivid colors, low angles, something simple becomes complex and layered. The techniques I use a lot are shooting at waist level (low angles), vignetting (again, for a nostalgic touch), and strong contrasts. The contrasts can be between the subject and the surroundings, the dark and light (I like dark,very dark), and the shades of color.
Would you consider yourself a portrait photographer? Who do you most like working with?
I consider myself a portrait photographer simply because it's what I enjoy most. Portraits are amazing because the subject's personality can be revealed without them ever saying a word. I like working with creative people - musicians, dancers, actors, artists, creators! They are the most fun because they are usually willing to try something different and imaginative with me.
What sparks a concept for a shoot? Do you usually come up with it or does the model?
My girlfriend, Michael, and I will brainstorm a theme/look depending on the subject. Michael is very good at coming up with a "story" to go along with with the subject and the shoot. From there, collaboration between me and the model, stylists, makeup artists, etc... is extremely important. If they don't like my ideas and aren't
having fun, it shows in the pictures!
What has been your most challenging shoot and why?
What's really challenging for me is building up the courage to ask to photograph strangers. If I see someone who would make a really great subject, it's hard for me to explain why I think that. Most people, including me, don't like having their pictures taken. Especially now when people are paranoid they'll end up on the internet or whatever. It's a shame.
What three things you feel are the most necessary for a photographer?
Most photographers I know have a highly developed eye for detail and are extremely observant people. Always watching, always noticing little things that most people probably wouldn't even register. It's important to have your own unique perspective and not be afraid to use that.
You recently shot Dances of Vice...how was that and had you done it before?
Dances of Vice has been amazing for me! The participants are really the most friendly and welcoming people. I love that they are always coming up with something new and that everyone there is extremely right-brained. All artists, entrepreneur's, really incredible people who are so glamorous and photogenic to boot. A photographer's dream, really.
You have a deep adoration for music it seems, who are you really into right now and if you could choose a song to represent your photography what would it be?
Right now I'm listening to a lot of My Bloody Valentine because I saw them live this week and it renewed my crush on their music. I don't think there is a particular song, but Nina Simone sums my work up pretty well. Her music is lush and seems to evoke more emotion each time you listen to it. There is so much more to her music than first meets the eye. Hopefully like my photographs :)
What is Glampire and how can we get some?
Glampire Design is Michael's business. She creates these unique and incredible headbands, hair clips,. jewelry. Michael also has a unique perspective - she is always looking at things in terms of what she can make out of them. She is very nostalgic, loves vintage, and extremely inspired by Dances of Vice. Her website should be up and running this week, then you can buy whatever you want!
If you were a carnie, what would you be?
Elephant Man (great movie!)
If you would like to see more of Marlo's beautiful work, please visit his website or visit his MySpace and leave him some love. If you'd like to see what beautiful things his wife makes...well stay tuned she might be featured as well. Ok, you don't have to wait that long, you can visit her site HERE.
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