For our second interview we’ve asked aamora founder member Michael Van Der Tol to answer our questions.
Lasquetti Storm
Why photography?
At one time in my life it was oils & water colors, but that soon gave way to photography for the simple reason that I can capture moments that turn into memories. With my painting I would recreate memories of past moments. At this point in my life I prefer the former.
Cellphones.
A good conduit for consuming shared imagery, but a lot of photography is better viewed in a larger form factor – like a print or a higher resolution screen or tablet.
Digital v. Film – still a topic?
Not relevant – it’s like oils v. acrylics; or instant film vs. lab processed film.
Is the equipment important?
At one time it was, as very few had access to basic equipment and processes because of the cost; not anymore.
How did you learn to photograph?
I’m still learning, but I started practising on film and then began practising using digital.
Are photographs “taken” or “made”?
Some are made – some are taken. I enjoy the process of making photographs. For me the process starts with the capture of the image. The making comes in the processing of the image. On rare occasions I am happy with a “taken” photograph.
Is photography art?
Photography is art. You may get arguments from purists who say Visual Art and digital photography are at two different ends of the artistic spectrum – with technology having no place in art. I would encourage those who think this way to consider watching an eye-opening documentary called “Tim’s Vermeer”, about one of the great Dutch painters, Johannes Vermeer.
Where do you go to look at photographs?
Like most people I consume a lot of photography via the internet. Sites like VSCO, 500px, Flickr, Instagram are some of my favorites for different reasons.
Who is it for – you or them?
A lot of what I take is for me and I share a small fraction with others. A lot of what I don’t share is more experimental – as I prefer to hone the concept before sharing.
View Michel’s contributions to aamora here.
It always good to read professional justifications for what you do. Thanks. Having 10 rolls remaining of 1,500 the scanning will soon be finished. Now comes the fun part.