Project Educate Interviews: Anathema-Photography
Anathema-Photography is a Canadian photographer with a knack for mayhem. Her style is an interesting mix of drop dead gorgeous and completely sadistic, not to mention disgusting (in only the best way possible).
She was delightful enough to allow me to probe her brain for Project Educate, though I was hesitant to ask her more than a few questions. Who knows what terrible tricks she'd have in store for me if I got too personal!
1: How long have you been shooting spooky? Do you do anything other than this, photography wise?
Anathema-Photography - "I’ve always indulged in the `spooky` images, but have been professionally shooting horror for almost 4 years."
2: Could you give us a reason why you started in the field of horror and macabre work?
:idevanathema-photography: - "I've always had a fascination with the dark side of life. As a child I had horrific nightmares that started to paralyze me in the waking hours. In order to deal with the haunting images I learned to embrace the twisted stories and find the chilly beauty behind them. Horror art helps me unleash my demons."
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3: What is your favourite aspect of the horror genre when you shoot?
Anathema-Photography - "I love the raw emotion that comes through when people are put in horrific situations. It's like watching a horror movie in the comfort of your own environment – you can experience the torment at a safe distance."
4: Do you find it hard to find clients or subjects to create your masterpieces on?
Anathema-Photography - "It is amazing the horror lovers that come out of the cracks when they believe in what you are doing. I have been extremely fortunate to have such talents find me. Horror fans are very loyal."
5: When it comes to makeup, do you do it all, or do you have assistants?
Anathema-Photography - "I used to do all of my own make-up and SPFX; as I later realized it was too much of a daunting task. On most of my jobs now I have an assistant, which is such a load off my shoulders."
6: Do you find it hard to find clients or subjects to create your masterpieces on?"
Anathema-Photography - "It is amazing the horror lovers that come out of the cracks when they believe in what you are doing. I have been extremely fortunate to have such talents find me. Horror fans are very loyal."
7: What / who are your influences?
Anathema-Photography - "Nightmares, H. R. Giger, Michael Hussar, Rob Zombie, Sara Moon, Mike Patton, Eli Roth, David Bowie... so many. I’m very much about the feeling I’m left with after viewing or listening to a piece. My images usually come from an emotion."
8: Do you have any tips for somebody just starting out in the scary side of things? Any pointers or advice?
Anathema-Photography - "Know your equipment, your lighting, composition, programs etc. Think about what you are actually shooting – have a story, a purpose for the image. Its not about throwing blood at a naked lady. Be prepared to be a business person, unfortunately its not all about the art."
Mature Content
Thank you to Anathema-Photography for allowing me the priviledge of asking her a few short questions, and for helping to bring to light just one mind in the field of horror!
Welcome to Horror/Macabre Photography Week!
A Brief History of Horror
Project Educate: Suggesting Horror/Macabre Daily Deviations!
