Continuing our 101's we have our first cross over, Photographer and Director David Boni. Find out what inspires him and who he admires as well as checking out some of his work.
Pictures with ideas. That’s what I love the most whether it's a simple head shot or massive production.
I love to get in early on the process, as early as possible really.
I would have to say my feature documentary DEATH + NIGHT + BLOOD the story of The Stranglers.
It’s been 9 years in the making and still counting.
By pushing myself. I absolutely love this job, so I try to give it my all every time.
Too many to mention but it would be impossible to talk about this without giving Story UK and Ardbeg a mention.
I’ve been involved in the brands development for over for 20yrs. Throughout that time I’ve shot countless films and stills jobs with Story and most notably Dave Mullen. It’s like the three of us have grown up together.
I’ve worked around the world in extreme heat and cold over the years. But ironically it was in Scotland that I was struck down with severe sun stroke on the first day of a two shoot. I’ll spare you the gory details but day 2 was the hardest day I’ve ever spent on camera.
Irving Penn. Everything comes from him. I think nearly all photographers have been consciously or subconsciously influenced by his work.
Whether directly or from the hoards of modern photographers who have copied or parodied his work. For me he’s the godfather of modern photography.
9-16 portrait format for social media. It’s not going anywhere soon and is often an after thought when planning jobs. We all need to get over the fact that it’s an awkward format (including me) and learn to shot for it.
Influencers.
In recent years battery operated lights. I know that seems daft but I absolutely love them, no cables and increased portability.
Oh and focus tracking!!
No more than everyone else has, we all have access to the internet and cameras in our pockets. It’s everyones duty to expose injustice.
Art galleries and books.
Painting, mainly Rembrandt and the painters of The Dutch Golden Age. Doesn’t matter what I’m up to there’s always something there be it light, composition or colour.
Conscious.
I’m lucky enough to be commissioned to do the work I like to shoot most of the time. However when I think my work starts to get dull or repetitive I tend to regroup and shoot some new work or project and introduce this to my clients. Keeping me and hopefully them interested.
Family, but work is never far away.
Make great work. But if you really want to get noticed pick up the phone and talk to people or try to meet with them.
We’re in a people business and creatives want work with people that are both good but equally that they get along with. It is the communication business after all.
I can’t wait to get my teeth into some exciting projects with The Gate. Their reputation precedes them and I’m really chuffed and honoured to be part of the company. Also lets not forget the opportunity for the odd night out in Manchester…I love the place… and the people that’s if Boris were ever lets us out again.
If you love David's work and want to see more then click here to explore more photography and films.