Photo Friday with Cléo S.P. of Fortune Camera
[Photo Friday is a weekly column on Art & Science Journal featuring upcoming photographers. To submit your work for consideration email LeeJones@artandsciencejournal.com]
Cléo S.P.’s Fortune Camera begins with her own fortune telling, “You have unusual equipment for success: use it properly.” With a camera and an eye for images, Cléo takes us on a journey through the obscure moments of her life, and makes them beautiful with her lens along the way.
When asked about the subject matter of her photos, she states, “I like to take photos of things that seem indifferent to others, but when I get my film developed I’m instantly amazed by how it turned out. It’s like my eye is secretly pointing me to a magical picture.” The photo above is her current favourite. “I love the colours, the details, and at the same time the blur that goes off into the distance. The fish-eye effect in the golden bell is also perfect. It describes to me the perfect day of biking in the park and lounging in the sun (which is what Australians do every single day). Life is good!”
Currently living in Melbourne, Australia, Cléo finds herself inspired by the city. “There’s art everywhere you look. From the graffiti on brick walls, the poems in random alleyways to the pop-up art shows and vintage markets. I’m inspired in different ways every time I get out of my house.” For this reason she takes her camera with her wherever she goes.
In terms of equipment, Cléo brings with her a Minolta XD11 with a mega lens that cost her a fortune, but is worth every penny. Though she takes both digital and film shots, Fortune Camera focuses on her film photography. “I prefer the mystery and suspense of getting a film developed and the surprises that come along. I get stoked!” Currently, she is developing a film a week.
Just as her fortune foretells, Cléo, with her talent for finding images in obscurity, continues to create beautiful photographs. Like the lure of a fortune unread, visit Cléo’s site to get your dose of Fortune Camera.
