JONATHAN CHERRY: What is it that you like most about your Pentax and how does it suit the way you make images?

BRIAN FERRY: I really like the control the Pentax gives me over my photos - the fact that it is fully manual suits me well. But what I probably like best is purely aesthetic - it’s a real tank of a camera, and it’s a very tactile process to take a photo with it. Each photo feels significant. The deep click of the shutter is quite satisfying to me. The significance of each photo means that I slow down and consider the photos I’m taking quite carefully. It allows for a more meditative, satisfying process (but I also think that is true of most film cameras).
JC: Has anything really inspired you in the last 24 hours if so, what and why?

BF: This video definitely inspired me yesterday for a number of reasons. I love the fact that these guys had the guts to start a business that they felt strongly about, and that they continue to pursue their particular vision and remain true and honest to that aesthetic. They are deliberate about what they do. And I love how enthusiastic they are about the simple things - serving food to people who appreciate it, building a community around their restaurants, even their excitement about something as simple as a meatball. People who are passionate always inspire me.

JC: What was the last photographic book you picked up?

BF: A small book of polaroids, by Steven Harrington. I love the way this guy sees the world.

JC: On your website you mention that you enjoy seeking out ‘good light’ - how do you go about this on a day to day basis?

BF: I find that I am incredibly affected by the light on any given day. I can feel my mood adjust based on the light around me - bright winter sun, grey london drizzle, gold light streaming into my office around 4pm, blue light just after the sun sets, and even artificial light - lamps, candles, or unforgiving flourescent light. Because I am hyper aware of the light, I think my photographs try to honestly capture the way that it feels to me at any given moment. Does that make any sense? I think it started when I decided to “chase the light” last winter. I wanted to take a series of photos, just for myself, that chased light in various forms. It was eye-opening and very instructional.

JC: What is your most recent project all about?

BF: Most recently, I’ve been trying to photograph my personal details - the seemingly mundane things that surround me on a day-to-day basis. I was inspired by some photos I saw in a magazine - they must’ve been advertising handbags or watches or something - but the way the photos were styled, they seemed to be an intensely personal peek into someone’s life. Their keys, bag, mobile phone, to-do lists, old receipts, notes, a discarded sweater, etc. It seemed to be such a good way of recording personal habits. I haven’t shared a lot of these yet, but it’s something I’m working on.

JC: What are your major plans for 2010?

BF: I plan to enjoy the hell out of living in London and exploring Europe and beyond.  I’m still getting used to living in a new city. And I can’t wait to visit Berlin, Scandinavia, and Paris (I’ve never been). There are so many other places I’m hoping to visit, too.

JC: What is next in the pipe line for you photographically?

BF: As for photography, it’s been a slow start for me in 2010 - I have a lot of ideas, but haven’t had the time to really make them happen. I’d really like to collaborate with another person, a photographer/artist/designer. I have a couple of ideas and I’m always open to suggestions from someone who might be interested. I think working with someone else will really challenge me and I am always up for a good challenge.

JC: Any advice to photography students and recent graduates?

BF: Oh man, I don’t know if I am qualified to give advice to a photography student or recent graduate. I’m self-taught, so they should probably call me with some helpful advice. But I guess the only thing I would offer is - be honest. People appreciate honesty. And look for inspiration in the everyday, mundane things.

JC: Any other thoughts?

BF: I think that’s all I’ve got. Thanks.