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Intriguing People

“Conceptually, 99% of my work revolves around documenting the history of mental health. Psychology and photography have always been my main interests, so one day I just put the two together. The technical part is not getting arrested.”

Justin Earsing

Justin Earsing (born in 1985) is a contemporary photographer and artist who has lived in New York, Hawaii, and currently resides in Providence, Rhode Island (USA). From a young age, he has been interested in the history of asylums and their changing role in American culture. The energy of these now decaying abandoned structures and a curiosity about the mysterious lives of their former inhabitants is what drives him to return time after time.

Artist statement

“Ever since I was younger I was obsessed with Spider-Man, not because of his super powers, but because he was a photographer. The combination of adventure and capturing memories has always excited me.”

Interview with Justin Earsing

Justin, what was your most memorable moment shooting pictures?

The first time I stepped into an abandoned mental facility. It was a strange feeling that I had never felt before, almost like the first time you have sex. Possibly more exciting, equally as nerve-racking, but lasted way longer for sure.

Why did you become a photographer?

Ever since I was younger I was obsessed with Spider-Man, not because of his super powers, but because he was a photographer. The combination of adventure and capturing memories has always excited me.

What does photography mean to you and what do you want to transmit with your pictures?

The idea of preserving memories and history has always been something that’s extremely intriguing to me. I want people to be able to step into my photos, rather than view them.

Which photographer has inspired you most?

Unlike a lot of people, I’m not really inspired by any professional photographers but rather my friends and peers. Maybe it’s because I’ve learned more from spending time with them and watching them shoot. I find it more gratifying and inspiring to witness an individual create first hand, it’s extremely powerful.

What’s your favorite photography quote?

My friend once said:

“Keep your lines straight.”

After that I feel like my photos were aesthetically more pleasing.

How would you describe your photographic voice and creative process?

Kind of like meditating, I am in a completely different world when I’m looking through my view finder.

What’s important in order to develop an own photographic voice?

Keeping people intrigued and consistently producing work.

What do you consider to be the axis of your work – technically and conceptually?

Conceptually, 99% of my work revolves around documenting the history of mental health. Psychology and photography have always been my main interests, so one day I just put the two together. The technical part is not getting arrested.

What qualities and characteristics does a good photographer need?

Passion and dedication.

What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes? Especially keeping in mind the over abundance of photographic imagery in today’s society.

Usually there is no deciding factor other than “Holy shit, I love this”. It’s instant.

Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?

From everything, literally everything, but if I had to pick one, it would be places I’m not supposed to be.

What kind of photography equipment and photographic supplies do you use?

I use Canon cameras and Canon and Sigma lenses. “Clik Elite” for bags, enough room to carry all my gear, toilet paper, and whiskey. Also designed well enough that when I throw it over a fence, neither my camera or bottle of Jameson is broken. Important stuff right there.

What’s your favorite website about photography?

There are too many to list honestly, I never look at one site religiously. I love Tumblr, albeit the abundance of annoying memes, it’s a great source for interesting photography.

What photography book would you recommend?

To this day I have only ever owned one book about photography, it’s a 1960s textbook called “Basic Photography” by Michael Langford.

Never needed more than that. Once you have all the technical aspects of operating a camera down, it’s really about perfecting your own style.

However, a book about Adobe Photoshop does come in handy from time to time.

Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a (professional) photographer?

Leave the ego behind, welcome criticism, and never forget your camera.

Justin Earsing Norwich-12th-Theater
Justin Earsing (USA) – Contemporary Photographer – www.justinearsing.com

Justin Earsing (USA) - Contemporary Photographer - www.justinearsing.com
Justin Earsing (USA) – Contemporary Photographer – www.justinearsing.com
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