Shoot the Breeze: Jamie Campbell

By Darby Milbrath

Toronto based photographer Jamie Campbell takes pics that look like film stills from a sci-fi movie. The shots of the drapes remind me of Twin Peaks. Right now he’s working on a new project about a rare cat condition.

1. Why do you take photos?
It is a fun thing to alter and add some fiction to a remembered past.

2. Do you carry your camera with you everywhere you go?
I often have a point-and-shoot in one of my pockets, although it is a rare occasion for me to actually use it. It fits nicely however.

3. What celebrity would you like to shoot most?
Calista Flockhart (Circa Ally McBeal).

4. What animal would you like to be, if not a human?
After looking at a map of “animals of the world”, a girl I know and myself decided on a creature called a Tarsier.

5. What is your favorite smell?
Maybe Florida Water, after it settles. Or a particular other’s pheromones.

6. Would you like to live forever?
No. I don’t think so.

7. What do you think is the best photo you have ever taken to date?
Best photograph, and a photograph I am currently attached to seem like very different things – but for the sake of an answer I’d maybe decide on this black-and-white snap-shot of my smallest cat poking out from under a bush. I think it best captures what I refer to as her inner ‘demon-seed’.

8. What’s your favorite pastime?
I like Boccie Ball, or summer swimming – bike riding too.

9. Do you like having your photo taken?
I don’t think I derive any particular enjoyment from having my photograph taken, no.

10. Who are your favorite photographers, currently?
I adore Emmet Gowin’s photographs of his wife Edith.