Q&A with Julian

Today we’d like to introduce you to Julian, builder of worlds and maestro of feeling. His work takes liberties with human spaces, transforming them into alien landscapes. Ever read a Bradbury sci-fi novel? If so, chances are you’ve pictured scenes quite similar to this imagery.

Julian's skill lies heavily in harmonious opposition: the idea that visual elements, which are seemingly at odds with each other, actually support one another within an image. Contrast is an important part of this, as well as strategic color and diverse textures. In his series Darkitecture, all three craft alternative realities from human structures. The idea is duality, and when done right, you might find yourself mentally whisked away to another dimension.

We wanted to understand more about his process, so naturally, we asked. Thanks for being so willing to chat with us, Julian.

When you begin an image, do you start with a concept in mind or find it during the editing process? 

Everything is flexible but, typically I have a strong idea of a concept in mind. Sometimes I know there's something there but it takes time in the editing process to find out. Both are equally rewarding for different reasons. 

How do you know when an edit is finished?

Ha! Good question. In almost all cases, I think I'm finished well before the end. I typically go back several times to tweak details before I post. Even then, I usually wish I'd waited... I have a whole load of Darkitecture images in various states of completion. Sometimes, the selection and clean up process takes so long, I just get bored with it and move on. Others, I just can't get the feel I was aiming for.

What's the most technically challenging image you've ever created?

Oh man! Most images my Darkitecture series take many hours, often over days and weeks to complete. The one I posted of the Wales Millennium Centre [pictured above] spanned seven years from start to finish! 

What do you think photography can express through manipulation that a straight photograph cannot?

For some people, creating images within the constraints of the camera/film is the challenge. For me, the initial photo is simply the raw material for personal expression. It's hard to define what can be expressed through manipulation, because this is constrained only by the imagination and creativity of the individual. 

 What draws you to this dramatic way of showing the world?

I would love to answer with an intellectually, high minded response about using drama to communicate the juxtaposition of nature's beauty and harsh reality, and how this is reflected in our own lives of beauty and loss. However, this would be entirely disingenuous. The truth is far more down to earth and visceral. I see things in the landscape (or city) that I'm attracted to, I then process the images until they have maximum visceral effect on me. I hope that when other people see them, they have a similar effect. 

If you could go on a photowalk with any photographer alive or dead, who would it be?

Ansel Adams, every day of the week.