Posted by sabine7
Interview | Oct 9, 2006
Adil Jain is Mumbai-based photographer who opted out of the inanity and eventual insanity of the desk-job life. The action and creativity required by the world of photography and film proved to be what it took to lure Jain away from his desk. And his impressive portfolio of portraits, fashion shoots and travel- scapes make it difficult for us to even picture Adil at a desk at all. We were inspired to dig deeper …
So, Adil, when did you decide to become an artist?
For the longest time I did not look at myself or ever refer to myself as an artist. I had a different interpretation of what it was to be a photographer - a highly creative and technical person, part art part science. I have been shooting for the last 10 years, and only recently have I evolved into a bit of an artist - mostly due to my personal work.
How does most of your creative work come about?
I do most of my creative work when I do self assigned personal projects with my own money - those have always reaped greater returns and much more satisfaction than any commissioned work.
Where, or from what, do you get inspiration for your work?
I get inspired when I see innovation in the medium - new originality - which always evokes a reaction of - "why didn't I think of that?" and "there is still new stuff to discover in photography, thank God"
What is your favorite part of the creative process and why?
As much as I like the pre and the post and after that the reactions while sharing - I have to say that the moment of creation - i.e. - during the photo shoot - is the highest high. I feel drained and jubilant after a good hard day's effort of thinking and shooting and multi-tasking and lighting.
How would you label or categorize your work?
I am a 'people specialist' - with work ranging from street documentary to studio fashion.
Do you have a signature style?
I don't think I have a signature style just yet. I am unsure if I want one that is distinctly recognisable - it is limiting in some ways.
Who are your favorite artists?
Irving Penn, Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, Steven Meisel, Richard Avedon, Robert Frank, Cappa, Bourdin, LaChappelle…
What item can you not do without when you are creating?
My eyes!!
What's next?
I am going to make some short films.
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VITAL STATS
Full name: Adil Jain
Location: Mumbai, India
Choice of media: Photography
Artist since: 1996
Claim to fame projects: Maha Kumbha Mela - solo show 2001 - New Delhi
Spare time: Music composing, piano, guitar, travelling.
MEDIA FAVES
Favorite website(s): gmail
What music is on your iPod or radio? lots of Jazz - hancock, miles, dizzy, bird, dolphy, valdez
Your favorite magazine(s): PDN, American Photo, Nat Geo,
Last or current book you are reading: Jazz - an American music
Last movie you saw: Motorcycle Diaries
