Kolby Schnelli (kolbyschnelli) is a creative and experimental photographer who tries to show the true energy of the photo. Using creative perspectives, Kolby uses a unique approach to showcasing the subjects in his photos. Enjoy our conversation.
What are you trying to capture/say with your photography?
I know it sounds cliche to say, but with each photo, I try to capture that moment in time. I want the viewer, whether they were there or not, to really feel the emotions or energy of the photo.
How do you know if your images are visually interesting?
If you can't look away, I did my job. The best response is when people ask if they can buy a print.. at that point, there is no doubting it's a great/interesting piece.
Do you think about perspective when you shoot?
All the time! If I'm shooting concert and I want the artist to look larger than life, I will shoot them from the photo pit. it gives the effect that they are towering over the viewer. I also try to find the perspectives that concert goers wouldn't normally see. This could be backstage photos in the greenroom or aerial photos looking down on the stage.
Do you use tripod or flash?
I rarely use a tripod. I don't really have a reason. I do use one if I'm shooting self portraits or composites, but that's about it.. I use studio strobes with about half of my work, the other half of the time I shoot documentary photography. I typically don't shoot with a flash for documentary work unless the situation calls for it. I love natural light!
What time of the day do you prefer to shoot?
There's nothing like the magic hour... (it's too bad it's such a small sliver of the day)
Are you looking for a unique subject?
I'm always looking for unique subjects! I tour manage a rock band and travel the country with them. I get to meet a ton of new and interesting people, some of which end up letting me photograph them! I'm always looking to push my boundaries with photography. Every subject is unique.
How are you choosing to stay close or far from the subject?
Sometimes it depends on the lens I have in that moment. But it mostly depends on the feel or mood of the image I am trying to capture. If I'm looking for vastness or trying to make the subject feel small, I will shoot from a distance. Intimate photos or detailed shots would be much closer.
Do you think of of rule of thirds/how?
If I do, it's all subconscious... I try to shoot images that are visually stimulating to me.
Do you think of symmetry or reflections?
Lately I have been playing with reflections and mirrors. It's a fun challenge to try and keep myself out of the shot.
Do you pay attention to the subject only or also background and why?
You have to pay attention to the background in my opinion.. If you have a distracting background, it doesn't matter how amazing your subject looks, you eyes will wander to the clutter/distractions behind it.
What do you prefer; B&W vs color?
That's a hard one.... I love both, but I tend to go for color first and if it doesn't work out or look quite how I want it, I'll try black and white. Black and white is typically a cop out in a lot of people's eyes... As I see it, if it's a bad photo, black and white won't save it. You need to have an aesthetically pleasing photo to pull off either style.
What mistake do you see photographers doing often?
I'm not here to talk bad about anyone's work because all art is relative. Everyone has different opinions on art and photography... However, if I had to pick something, it would be uniqueness when it comes to certain situations or photos. For example, look at the old train bridge in the PNW... Hundreds of photographers have shot there (thanks to Instagram) and most of them walk away with the same image... finding a new perspective that sets you apart is key. But, each to their own.
What is your most important lesson you’ve learned that has improved your photography?
Shoot everything. Even if you aren't posting it or printing it. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, that's how you learn. Practice. A lot.
