Intuition + Technique = Art

Heads Lifestyle got together with Shayna Colvin, SoCal photographer and retro Super 8 filmmaker to chat about pink Polaroid cameras, weed, art and horseback riding.

Heads Lifestyle: How did you get into photography?

Shayna Colvin: I’ve always been drawn to taking photographs. When I was really young, I remember having a little pink Polaroid camera and I took photos of my family and dog. I always wanted to document what I was doing or what was going on. In high school, I bought a cheap 35mm film camera and that is when I became more interested in film. But it wasn’t until I began college at art school in 2013 that I became serious about taking photos.

HL: What’s more important art or technique? What governs your approach?

SC: Art can be whatever you want it to be; the technique just gets you to the finished product. I usually just follow my intuition. There’s no wrong or right way and finding different techniques helps you grow, for sure. It also keeps things interesting and not too repetitive.

HL: Your photos have a certain stoney haze about them. Does weed play a role in your shoots? Does it inform your work?

SC: Weed is a part of my life and, yeah, I’d say it plays a role or at least gets me into the right mindset.

HL: If you could photograph anyone or anything, what would it be and where? Describe your dream shoot?

SC: I grew up riding horses and I absolutely love it, so it would definitely be riding through somewhere beautiful with a bunch of friends on horses!

HL: Finish this sentence: I can't leave for a shoot without my...

SC: Extra film or if it's digital a full battery and an empty memory card! And if I’m not smoking at the shoot then some for after!

HL: Do you shoot digital or film? Do you have a preference?

SC: I shoot both, but it really depends on what I’m shooting. If I had to choose one for sure film!

HL: Your Super 8 films are like lost treasures found in a dusty box in the attic. Tell us about this side of your work?

SC: Thank you; Super 8 definitely has a rawness and grain to it, which makes it feel almost like a lost memory. I love shooting Super 8, the way it captures light, especially when pointing towards the sun, always amazes me. 

HL: If Heads were to take you to lunch, what’s your favourite food?

 SC: Italian! Or Mexican…or sushi…I’d be happy with anything :)

All photos: Shayna Colvin

***

Shayna Colvin is a 23-year-old photographer from Southern California. She received her BFA in Photography from The Savannah College of Art and Design. She has worked with many in the fashion industry, notably Urban Outfitters, Glamour Magazine, Nylon Magazine, and others. See more of her art at http://www.shaynacolvin.com/ and follow her on Instagram at @shaynacolvin