Kelly Thompson is making her mark within the creative arena by blurring the boundaries between art and fashion photography. Her unique and visually invigorating pieces signal a departure from mainstream movements. I talk to her about her inspirations, and her steady application of raw talent combined with unwavering effort.

ALB: Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into Fashion photography?

KT: I studied a bachelor of design and majored in photography. I’ve always been interested in fashion and so when given the option I did all of the fashion based and studio papers at uni. I thought it was important to be taught the technical side of studio etc so I really focused on this area over doing documentary papers. Once I was out I tried to shoot whenever I could, some of my first shoots were pretty terrible! But I guess its all practice haha.

ALB: What do you look for, or see in a subject, before you photograph an image?

KT: Because I mainly shoot people, I always look for personality and someone who has a bit of a spark; there is nothing worse than shooting a model that has no personality!

ALB: If your photographs could speak, what would they say?

KT: Depends on the photo I guess.

ALB: I assume there are times when people say to you that your photographs are

good, but you are not satisfied with it. What do you think about this point?

 KT: People always say that things are good, but its hard to know if you are actually getting an honest opinion or if the are telling you what they think you want them to say. It’s important to keep setting yourself personal goals and trying to raise the bar with your work, you can’t base your personal levels and satisfaction on the opinions of others.

ALB: You are an artist as well as a photographer, and I can see your style show through in your photographs. How did you progress from being an artist to the lens, and has previous experience as an artist helped you in this career?

 KT: I was a photographer before I started working as an illustrator; I have always had an interest in drawing. I used to draw in my spare time but then friends offered to pay me for my work and it all just spiraled from there. Now I work as both an illustrator and photographer. I guess photography helps my illustration, a lot of people say my drawings look like fashion photos, I think that having an understanding of light with photography has definitely helped my drawing..

ALB: Who are your muses?

KT: Hmmm I don’t really have any specific ones

ALB: What inspires you?

KT: My big wall covered in numerous photos/graphic design and drawing

ALB: How would you describe your photographic style and how it has developed over

the years?

KT: Hmm I think it’s clean and tidy

ALB: Do you have any words of wisdom to offer someone aspiring to become a

fashion photographer?

KT: Work hard, set goals and push yourself. You wont get anywhere if you slack off.

ALB: Thank you Kelly.