Simon Fowler
I had the pleasure of speaking with London based photographer Simon Fowler on his his creative process and taking some of the most iconic photos, of some of our favorite artists including P.J. Harvey, Debbie Harry and The Cramps to name a few.
Where did you grow up and how did this influence on your career?
I grew up in Amersham. My family were art based so I thought I’d do something in this area.
What got you interested in photography?
Went to art school to do graphics but the last year they started a photography course and it hooked me in. People like David Bailey, Duffy, Terry O’Neill, had what I would call a rock ‘n’ roll edgy feel. So at first I wanted, I thought then, to be a fashion photographer. I played guitar in a local rock band and had dreams of becoming a musician. So the two interests were brewing in my head before they merged together.
Love that. I feel like fashion and rock ‘n’ roll go hand in hand. A bit of magic can happen when they come together. When was the first time you picked up a camera?
16 years of age. Borrowed my aunties Kodak Brownie and tried to take some shot of the girl next door who I really fancied. Failed miserably. She was not impressed!
Sounds like you had some game tho. How do you prepare for your shoots? What’s your process?
Chat to the client / band / person, get a mood board together to get things rolling and to get a direction for the shoot. Sort out a location, studio or both according to the budget, unless they’ve picked one, sort out lighting, styling, grooming and then a shot list.
I am a big fan of The Cramps and always loved the photos you shot of them. How was that experience?
Shot those images at LFI Studio. I say Studio, that’s being generous, It was not, it was a room 8ft high sealing, plastic tiled floor and about 14ft square. Just about enough room for a back drop to hang from. There was a little make up area with a mirror normally for any female artist or anybody doing their hair boy or girl!
When the band came in they were quite subdued. Not many words were spoken just nods mostly. It felt a bit weird. I was only given about a couple of hours with them. Set the first shot up and in they step. Well, they then came alive. They were great to work with. They became more chatty and animated as the minutes ticked by. They all went out very happy bunnies. They used one of the images for Fever single cover which I was well chuffed about!
That’s so cool! What inspires you?
Musician’s / Singers Talent. Nature
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Bowie, Queen, ZZ Top, Tina Turner, Howard Jones, Jeff Beck, Clapton, to name but a few.
I absolutely love the shot you took of Tina performing at Hammersmith Odeon in 1978. How do you feel your work has evolved over the years?
The use of lighting whether its flash, tungsten, daylight or both mixed. I can pull on these very quickly.
I particularly like the lighting in some of your photos of P.J. Harvey. There almost appears to be an aura around her. Can you tell us a bit about how you achieved this?
The lighting was a ring light which puts an even shadow around you. It was a circular flash with a hole in the middle which you put your camera through. Not very nice for your subject as the flash went directly into their eyes if they looked into the camera.
The results are well worth it. Do you have a favorite photograph you’ve taken?
Not Really. I have loads that I like but all for different reasons.
What is one of the most memorable moments of your career?
Lot’s really but having a phone call to photograph Queen was a highlight.
Fantastic! Is there anyone you would like to work with in the future?
I’m such a sucker for people with natural talent. Hooks me in straight away.
Same.
I would like to thank Simon Fowler for taking the time to chat with us. Check out his incredible collection of work available now.