Toronto’s awesomely gifted Cass Cameron takes part in our Photochat series.

Who are you &and what’s your background?

My name is Cass, I am 22 years old, and currently, I am studying photography at OCAD University, Toronto, Canada.

I am rather obsessed with the female experience, in all of its manifestations, and so, my work features a variety of women and self-portraits. I am also really prone to daydreaming so my photographs are often dreamy and floaty. And, in many ways, allude to existential questioning.

How long have you been taking photos for?

I started taking photographs really, really casually at about sixteen. I loved my polaroid camera and disposable cameras. It wasn’t until high school that I began studying photography with the help of friends and a wonderful art teacher.

What’s your most memorable image you have shot?

I honestly can’t say that I have one that is most memorable. A self-portrait that I took in 2009 is quite meaningful to me. I was struggling with an eating disorder and bouts of intense anxiety at the time, and the image came to symbolize my inner strength. Essentially, leaving the dark and finding light in life, people, animals, nature and myself.

Nowadays, I absolutely love shooting portraits with my friend, makeup artist, Sierra Cermignani. She brings wonderful energy to shoots and makes everything light and cheery.

What made you start shooting?

I became fascinated by the photographers Diane Arbus, Francesa Woodman and Nan Goldin. So studying other photographers definitely pushed me to keep shooting and experimenting. Photography just sort of happened, that sounds like a terrible answer, but it was natural for me to see the world behind a lens. I liked to create little stories about my images.

Who and what influences you?

There are so many artists that influence me. To name a few: Frida Khalo, Duane Michals, Patti Smith, Ellen Rogers, Miranda July. But my main influence comes from a combination of listening to music and daydreaming.

What are you currently listening to?

Right now, I am listening to Bob Marley and the Wailers. I also love The Tragically Hip, Cat Power, Alice in Chains, Alela Diane and Devendra Banhart.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In fact, I am very confused about this. I am currently pursuing photography and curatorial studies, but it is a difficult industry to survive in. I am interested in spirituality, psychology and creative arts therapy, so I hope to be of artistic service to others.

http://www.casscameron.com/

This entry was tagged as canada, cass cameron, photochat, photography., toronto.