What motivates you to get up in the morning?
The thought of freshly brewed coffee and bright sunny Bahrain skies…. although it has been raining more than usual this year
You have traveled a lot of places and took many photographs during your course of work. Which photograph do you most identify yourself with?
Great question, I have never thought about that. It’s more of a feeling I have while I’m out shooting a location. I have been fortunate enough to travel around the world and observe different cultures. There isn’t one in which I felt more drawn to, they are just different…unique…existing perfectly in their own environment. That is what I like to capture, just moments in time from individual places around the world that normally wouldn’t be documented otherwise. That is what leaves me satisfied, a place I can identify with and the memory that I was in a specific place at a specific time, capturing a certain moment. And then to share that with others…I think that’s cool.
What does photography mean to you? What first drew you to take photos?
Growing up, I never thought of myself as creative. No one ever told me I was either. But as a teenager, I was gifted an ‘antique’ 1974 Nikkormat SLR which quickly found its way into a dark drawer. It wasn’t for another five years until I brought it back to life in a college photography class. This was the tipping point for me. But it was a decade in transition…from film to digital, I was lost in the mix and with the exception of taking a few shot here and there, really never rejuvenated that passion I had while developing prints in a dark room. Moving to Bahrain in 2013 was a new beginning for me in photography. I had finally hit my comfort zone, truly enjoying every aspect of making an image.
How important is it for photographers/artists to “connect” with their subjects?
I think it makes all the difference in the world. I have photographed objects, locations, things, that just weren’t exciting to me….and the end result indicated as much.
Which part of Bahrain is your favourite and why?
Ah the most difficult question for last. Fair enough but almost impossible to answer. I have found Bahrain to be an incredible tranquil place. I feel an overwhelming sense of calm when I am out alone, headphones on, setting up the tripod, waiting for another beautiful sunset. At mosques and in the souqs, I have met the most interesting and friendly people. Unlike many other countries, I have never had a Bahraini turn me away for a photo…ever. They are some of the most kind and accommodating people that I have ever met, and I am grateful for the time I have had here. Coming back full circle, I think I enjoyed photographing dhows the most. They are just so unique to this part of the Gulf, and really help visualize a personal story about the Bahraini culture that still thrives today. ν
For more information:
web: 500px.com/nukoland-photography
nukolandphotography@gmail.com