escapetowhichmountain:

ETWM INTERVIEW NO. 3 : Cameron Gardner

Cameron is a photographer with an obvious love for the outdoors and camp vibes.

Where in the world are you now?

I am currently in Los Angeles, CA

Where would you like to be if cost and logistics weren’t an issue?

If neither of those things mattered, I wish that I could be living on a remote island with a few friends and amazing surf, or exploring/climbing mountains in distant countries.

What project(s) are you currently working on?

Currently I have a side project that I have been working on (not my own photos), it’s called Lost Memories Project. I have been collecting old 35mm slides and negatives from thrift stores, antique shops and yard sales. I have a good amount of photos scanned already, I started a blog where I am currently posting them www.lostmemoriesproject.tumblr.com right now it’s just a blog and it sort of works in sections by the slides that I have scanned. The first section of slides is just complete, it was of two men’s travels around europe and other parts of the world. I’ve got a lot more interesting stuff to show that’s totally different, and maybe someday it will be a zine or book possibly. As for personal photo projects I’ve got a few that I am working on but not defined enough to release them yet.

You seem to shoot a fair amount of polaroids. What is it you like about using analogue, and how does it compare to digital?

I really enjoy everything about analogue from buying the film, to loading and shooting it, to processing, scanning and printing it. That whole process is lost in digital, I like to feel that I am physically creating something that I can touch, of course I enjoy both but I would rather shoot analogue if I have the choice. Polaroids are just a magical thing of their own, especially when you are shooting expired ones. The surprise and moment you peel back the photo are the best part, shooting analogue teaches you to have patience if you let it.

Who or what is inspiring you at the moment?

Anything to do with being outdoors or in nature has been my main inspiration for quite a while, trying to find those little things in life that put you completely at ease.

What does this year have in store for you?

So far this year has had being on the road a major focus, I am planning on going on at least two road trips this summer involving lots of camping. As for the rest of the year I am starting my freelance career and am very excited to see where that road takes me. Other than shooting a ton I plan on surfing and rock climbing or getting away to camp as much as possible. If you haven’t heard of them yet go check out Polerstuff at www.polerstuff.com and go pick up some awesome camping gear! You can also check out my adventure story #4 that I shot for them a few months back.

Do you hope to make a living from photography?

I do plan on making a living with photography, hopefully shooting cool things for really cool people.

Your ultimate survival tool?

For now, a buck knife, but I really would like to have that 10 year wait list knife.

WEBSITE

BLOG

LIMITED PRINT RUN:

I am doing a limited run of 10 prints of each image,  funding an upcoming trip!

Hand number 11x17 prints, $50 shipped. email me at hello@camerongardner.com to order one.