SuperHero Photography
Photographer Adam Jay recently had a run in with Facebook, being asked to pull down some ‘questionable’ images. This sparked a controversy of what is allowed by Facebook.
Adam was kind enough to answer some questions for us.
If you don’t follow him already on Facebook, go right now to https://www.facebook.com/superherophotography and Like his page. Go ahead, we’ll wait.
ComicBloc When did you get started in photography and especially when did you start doing superhero things?
Adam Jay I started working at image 1st Photography Studio in London in 2007, and didn’t pick up a camera till the summer of 2008. I didn’t study Photography (Degree in Performing Arts & Dance) so picked up the experience on the job so to speak.
It was in December 2011 that I had my 1st SuperHero Shoot in Miami. I quietly said to myself that if it went well then I would pursue this style. Hence to say it did.
Bloc Your recent shoot with Freddie Nova has created quite a stir. You’ve stated on your site the reasons you think why. Your images have not been much more risque before, do you think facebook is cracking down? (I’ve seen much more ‘inappropriate’ images without any drama.
AJ I have no idea why the shots of Freddie as Venom were banned. There were two in particular and they are no where near as risqué as some of the images you see on Facebook ! Maybe someone has it in for me. [laughs]
The Venom shoot Facebook doesn’t want you to see
Bloc Anything else you’d like to say about this current BS mess.
AJ Even though 2 images were deleted by FB, we twisted that negative around to make a huge positive and spun the media with it. Every cloud hey.
Bloc You recently asked for digital compositors to show what they can do with your photos. How happy are you with the response to that call? Anything more you’d like to see?
AJ I thought I would throw it out there to see what other ideas people came up with. I am very picky, however there were a couple that caught my eye so I will chat with the artists on it again and see what we can come up with.
Bloc I see a great mix of Marvel and DC characters. Do you have a preference for either, or is it whatever visually is the most interesting for you?
AJ I don’t really mind in honesty. I try to search out cosplayers/costumers who have epic outfits and are committed to the character. With this it’s easier to translate that via the images I do. It gives it a sense of belief.
Bloc If you are willing to share what equipment you use, I’m sure people would love to know.
AJ Canon 5d MKII, 24-105mm Lens, 2/3 Elinchrom Lights. That’s pretty much it.
Bloc Favorite shoots and or characters and why? Your images seem to really capture the essence of these iconic heroes, which is one of the reasons I find your work so compelling. Do you shoot based on willing models? Or do you decide ‘we need to see a female venom?’ and then seek out models for that roll?
AJ Well it really did snowball after the Wonder Woman images were released. For me this was a big hitter, but that is also kudos to Hermes who made the outfit and Sarah Scott who played the part of WW.
The Epic Shoot I did in Orlando with 15 Cosplayers/Costumers was cool and definitely a challenge! I had characters form the Avengers, X-Men & Justice League there.
I try to find models who I feel play the part really well. If they look like a character then thats a bonus but not essential to a degree, the outfit must be top notch, emotions in check and a sense of fun.
Bloc Do you read comics? If so what are you reading now?
AJArrghh you know, I don’t !!! I did when I was a teenager but it didn’t last very long. My problem is I wouldn’t know who/what to follow !!! Any suggestions??
I’d like to thank Adam for taking time to answer my questions. Be sure to check out all of his work on Facebook and his site, you will regret it if you don’t! Stop by his Facebook page and give him some comic suggestions to read as well!
If you are going to NYCC be sure to stop by his booth for a LIVE Venom/Symbiote shoot! T-shirts and prints from the banned shoot will be available for purchase as well.
http://www.facebook.com/superherophotography
http://www.superherophotography.co.uk/