Turning thoughts into visuals through the view of a timeless lens, our latest Aje Insider works calmly and instinctively to bring the best out in her subjects. Gravitating to the female form, she looks up to mothers the world over, and says the best piece of advice she's ever received is to feel real things. Turning the camera on herself for our latest Aje Report instalment, meet our Insider, Sydney based photographer Claudia Smith.
Claudia Smith
Photographer
The Anne Blazer and Paperbark Linen Trouser
Tell us about your photography style and what drives your work
I am drawn to a classic and timeless aesthetic and strive to do simple the best it can be done. The people around me, and the people I get to work with are my biggest driving forces.
When did you realise you wanted to be a photographer
It was always really welcoming to me, I could connect with people in a certain way through imagery.
Describe your creative process
Turning thoughts into visuals
Any mentors / muses that have shaped the way you work
Never felt something so powerful through imagery until I came across Bill Hensons work when I was a teenager.
“The people around me, and the people I get to work with are my biggest driving forces.”
Best piece of advice ever received
See / feel real things
Your images are a beautiful celebration of the female form, where did this signature come from and how do you find women influence your work
Thank you, I have always been drawn to the female form, lines and shapes that are unfiltered. I think it’s one of the most special things to observe. When a woman is completely herself, it is powerful. I am lucky I have experienced glimpses of this.
Women you look up to in life
Mothers
How has your experience been as a woman in the fashion industry
Always roll with the positive experiences, it’s so empowering seeing so many incredible women drive this industry.
“Always roll with the positive experiences, it’s so empowering seeing so many incredible women drive this industry.”
Your biggest highlight to date
All of the hard working, incredibly talented people I have worked with and those who have chosen to support what I do are constant moments of appreciation and highlights for me.
Best part about being a photographer
When it’s instinctual, seeing how people move, formulating, bringing that together. Allowing something to happen and moving forward from that.
Your favourite artist / art work
My favourite artwork in my home is a piece called “Ngalunggirr Miinggi” by Otis Carey.
Describe your personal style
I like to dress practical and relaxed
Favourite piece of all time in your wardrobe
My R.M. Williams boots
Best thing about your home town of Byron Bay
The overwhelming sensation of being still / calm.
What are you currently reading, watching and listening to
Honeyed Stories – Elle-Louise Burguez
http://dream-magazine.com/stories/memoria-luz/
Angel Olsen’s Album “All Mirrors”
What does your star sign tell us about you
I am ruled by the moon
What can we expect to see from you next / any exciting projects you can share with us
More self published works
