tess bukowsky photography interview

One thing Tess Bukowsky knows how to do well is take a location, hop behind the lens and transform it into the kind of place we're keen to teleport to, stat. (We're sure there are plenty of other things she does well too, but we'll let her fill you in on that.)

Have a squiz at some of her travel snaps below, and read our chit-chat with the Melbourne lass about patience, good lighting and why it's important to always be polite.



What is your name and how old are you? My name is Tess Bukowsky and I’m 25 years old.

Where were you born and where do you live now? I was born in Melbourne and have recently come home after a couple of years living overseas, primarily in Texas.



When did you first know you wanted to be a photographer? Honestly, I have no idea. As a kid I always mucked around with cameras and it’s just something I’ve always done, and continued to do without really thinking about it. I guess I just didn’t want to be an accountant - sorry Dad.

What areas, things or people in your neighbourhood do you most like to photograph? Ask me again in a few weeks, I’m about to move house! I’ve been back living in suburbia for a while, and not the interesting kind.

What do you shoot on (digital or analogue) and why do you choose to use that type? I shoot on analogue, which sort of happened by accident. I prefer it though, because my work is more considered. You get 10 shots on a roll of film –you’ve got to make them count, goddamn it.



Is there a running theme to the work you create, or do you just make whatever comes to mind? I don’t over-plan, but I’m definitely always drawn to things of a certain nature. There are themes of displacement and uncertainty in my work. I’m heavily inspired by what I read and often try to create images based in narrative form. I want people to feel a certain way when they see my work.

When it comes to taking photos, do you have more of a controlled/set-up or spontaneous style? It depends on what I’m shooting. My personal work is a little mix of both – I’ll return to a scene when I’m shooting for the right light, the right angle… Otherwise it’s just working with what’s in front of me.



What advice can you offer on finding your personal style or aesthetic? Be kind to yourself! It’ll take years to develop a personal style and it too will keep evolving. As much as you can avoid it, try not to emulate others. Look past other photographers for inspiration; look to writers, painters, architects, etc.

What are the hallmarks of a great photographer? Patience and persistence are important, you won’t create anything that looks good without those. Be personable and polite, because no one likes an arsehat with talent. Get ya ego in check.

What are your thoughts on the rise of mobile phone photography and Instagram? I think Instagram is certainly a useful platform for emerging artists as a free marketing tool. Mobile phone photography, though, has proven invaluable for first-on-the-scene news events or my 16-year-old sister’s selfies.



What is the strangest thing or thought that has inspired a photo? Back in the uni days, I did this nutty series where I took portraits of people dressed up as the Virgin Mary. I’m still not exactly sure why, university was weird times.

Which other photographers do you love? At the moment, Phillip - Lorca diCorcia, Alex Webb, Paul D’Amato, Lee Grant and Carrie Mae Weems.



What do you enjoy doing when not taking photos? Drinking coffee, reading, writing, driving long distances with Gold 104.3 on the radio and when I can, getting on planes.

Where can we see more of your work? tessbukowsky.com or Instagram @tessbukowsky