Photographer of the week: Chandler Gartman

The “Photographer of the Week” series is dedicated to highlighting photographers within the SCAD community that demonstrate unique abilities behind the lens. This week, Chandler Gartman, a senior photography student, shares her recent projects and personal insight.

1. What or who helped you develop an interest in being a photographer and what significance does photography hold for you?

I’ve always had an interest in photography, but movies really pushed me into checking it out. I loved seeing photographers in the studio just creating their vision and I instantly saw my own. I see photography as a chance to just share what goes on in my brain artistically.

2. Do you have a muse? If so, who, and or what is it? 

I haven’t quite found my muse but I feel like I’m getting closer to what it could be.

3. What is your overall creative process per project? Do you like to follow the common steps of photographing or is there something more unique to the way you work? 

I have to do research to get my ideas organized, but once I’m in the studio I go to the beat of my own drum. I’ll try anything and everything that passes my curiosity when it comes to poses, accessories, etc.

4. What impact do you want to have within the industry? 

I just want to make my art, when people see it I’m hoping the details and style will poke their curiosity but the impact is where it gets tricky. I want people to feel the freedom and experimentation in my work. I want it to make others want to try the oddest pose, style, etc. in their minds and just have fun. I’m trying new things and my ideas are always changing, my ideal impact can change too. So we will see where everything takes me.

5. What impact do you want to have within the industry? 

I just want to make my art and, when people see it, I’m hoping the details and style will poke their curiosity but the impact is where it gets tricky. I want people to feel the freedom and experimentation in my work. I want it to make others want to try the oddest pose, style, etc. in their minds and just have fun. I’m trying new things and my ideas are always changing, my ideal impact can change too. So we will see where everything takes me.

6. What challenges have you faced in your creative journey? 

Planning ahead does not prevent problems closer to shoot days. I have learned my lesson and worked through it, it still happens but when it does I just stay cool and keep going.

7. Is there any advice you’d like to leave for other photographers or SCAD students? 

Don’t take any hurtful attitude, call them out. No one should make you feel like you are not meant to be there or stupid for asking questions. You pay too much money to be treated rudely in an environment that is supposed to be giving you real harsh criticism (in a healthy way) and support. You are meant to do this, and even if it turns out you’re not, give it everything. Try out anything that sparks your interest because this is the time to find your skills, new skills, make mistakes and possibly help one another’s visions become a reality. See SCAD students as your teammates, not your competition — some people might disagree with me, but everyone needs assistance in an area they are not familiar with, and seeing your peers as the enemy can bring more problems to your table. Make friends and while making friends find a team but allow that team to keep growing.

To see more of Gartman’s work, you may visit her Instagram.