Emma Summerton has rapidly become one of today’s most sought after photographers. Her colourful and evocative work reflects a modern spirit while also referencing iconic and vintage fashion imagery. Born in Australia and now based between New York and London, Emma is a frequent contributor to British Vogue, Italian Vogue and i-D magazines. Emma’s work embodies the new wave of creative vision.

Images

 

Q&A

Name: Emma Summerton
Age: Of Aquarius… isn’t it?!
Nationality: Australian
Based In: London & New York
Website: www.maximfma.com
Representation: MFA

How did you start your career?
By accident. I was studying fine arts and majored in photography. Though originally I wanted to be a painter, photography got me. Then I assisted a fashion photographer because technically art school did not cover much in that way… so the two worlds collided.

What was your first job?
First job EVER ever? Making tea and sweeping hair up at the local hairdressers on Saturdays while I was still at high school.

What do you think is your best work so far?
Oh boy, that depends on what mood I’m in! Lately I have been going through my archive which goes back 20 years starting in 1988 when I was at art school, so right now it’s really hard to say and changes everyday.. .plus it’s so multi-faceted, there is the fashion work and then my personal work and I get attached to images for all sorts of reasons that no-one else would know looking at them.

Who or what has influenced you?
My mother, my grandfather, and my boyfriend who is also a photographer and has been a huge influence and support. Also in the last few years working with Edward Enninful has had a huge influence on my fashion work.

What is your earliest recollection of noticing or being inspired by photography and/or style?
Old family photos of my mother, she had great style, and photos taken by my grandfather who shot hundreds of slides in the 60’s and 70’s. Also playing in my mother’s wardrobe and her and I making outfits for me – I would draw them and she would make them real.

What do you generally look for when selecting someone to photograph?
That I can imagine them as the character I want to create. When meeting models it’s very much about who they are and how we relate to each other. You can only manipulate someone so much, they have to bring something of themselves to the picture.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
Dancing with my sister in my grandparents’ garden with flowers in our hair, wearing homemade crocheted ponchos, music playing… I remember the moment so strongly probably because I have watched it many times over the years on super 8 film my grandfather shot.

What music do you like to work to?
Many many different types, depends on the shoot, the people, where we are. I was addicted to the Jesse James soundtrack last season by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis… every shoot someone in the crew would buy it afterwards. Portishead, Angus and Julia Stone, Bowie, PJ Harvey, Cat Power, Iggy Pop, Mercury Rev… lots!

Describe your dream project?
I don’t think you have enough space on your website for me to go into it… let’s just say it has no limits.

Where do you find inspiration?
Books, movies, music, art, travel, people I meet and then having time to think so I can tumble them all around in my head.

Film you think everyone should see:
Friendship’s Death by Peter Wollen with Tilda Swinton and Bill Paterson… it’s an objective look at human beings from an alien perspective.

Best advice you have ever been given?
Was from my mother… follow your dreams.

Who do you think is one to watch?
Julia deVille, an amazing artist / jewelry maker, and Angus & Julia Stone. Also Merlin Glozier, a painter, and Kess Glozier, her son who is an illustrator, both amazing artists!

Many thanks to Emma for her time, patience and being one of the nicest photographers out there!