ELIAS TAHAN
PHOTOGRAPHER
CALIFORNIA, USA
 http://eliastahan.com/

Elias, how you doin man?

Busy, busy, busy.

So Elias where did you grow up and do you remember the first time you were inspired by photography?

It’s actually quite random that I got into photography. I was always into architecture and design of all sorts. I’ve always been fascinated with the music video, in particular, and the aesthetic it brings to the table. Photography is like a quick way for me to express myself visually without the production and crew costs of film. My passion for film and cinematography tends to show in my work.

Did you ever get formal training or was it mostly self-taught? Do you think school is necessary for this sorta thing?

I’ve never really been trained in anything. It’s ironic that you ask me this question about schooling being necessary because I’m writing a thesis for a long-term project at school relating to this exact topic. Is schooling necessary for the success in a particular field? I’d have to say definitely not. I think this is a huge misconception people have, especially when contacting me about photography and about my work. I recently got accepted to Art Center in Pasadena, which is hugely noted for its industrial design and graphic design programs. People think that just because I go there it explains why my work is good or whatever. School will only make you a technician. It’s a matter of applying what you learn at school to your own creativity. Can’t emphasize that enough.

We’re blown away with your shots, you’ve got some great raw talent for a pretty young guy in a field that can be pretty competitive. Did you get any tips or advice from anyone or were you just consulting with your Yoda?

Everything is competitive, it’s what I tell everyone. I get tips and advice through quotes mainly. I tend to listen to old people because they’re the wisest. Usually what they have to say matters the most.

And when you first began to shoot, what intrigued you the most?

The control I had as an art director of sorts.

Would you say that being young has given you an edge to hustle up work and be persistent? What can be said for these two virtues in the photography field? Do they matter?

Being young has nothing to do with one’s own determination. I am tired of self-doubt and hearing people complain about their lives. The only person who can fix things is you. One of my favorite quotes:

“Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; un-rewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” - Calvin Coolidge

You have a great MySpace Blog “Creativity vs. Marketability” that points outs today’s modern day perils for the commercial artist. Specifically you say “…particularly record labels, to simply acquire people skilled or qualified enough to just get the job done, rather than find someone who can innovate and deliver truly unique vision/results. What happened to the teams of creative directors? …”Maybe this is what it all boils down to. Mediocrity rules” What do you think we can do as artists to protect ourselves and our value so that we can make a decent living and stay creative with our jobs without loosing our shirts to corporations and being a slave to the wage?

Let your own creative juices flow. Look at trends and manipulate them to your advantage. Don’t copy them. Copying them assures you sustainability, not innovation or recognition. Stay true to your gut instinct and your talent. People will notice and you will be rewarded. Quality over quantity.

You’ve also got some cool heroes - Mark Romanek for his organic, cinematic style, Jon Jerde for his flawless fusion of architecture and environment, Walt Disney, All these artists have an amazing sense of story and communicating with people. What do you hope to communicate to people with your work?

Escapism. Clever imagery. Everything I feel my work isn’t yet.

How would you define your style in 3 words?
Work in process.

Nice! What would be your perfect day of shooting, does it exist?

Cooperative models. I can’t emphasize enough how annoying it is to work with egotistical and condescending talent. Just let me do what I do and everything will be fine. Beautiful light. Lots of props. Lots of creative minds (i.e. the brilliant people behind the scenes – makeup artists, hair/wardrobe stylists, designers).

 

Do you save anytime for personal work?

Of course.

You have worked with many talented people; Eric Dixon (clothing for Missy Elliott, Usher), Troy Jensen (Christina Aguilera, Paris Hilton, Tyra Banks), Marvin Lynch (Greg Gorman, Marilyn Manson, Carmen Electra). Does ego ever get in the way of the creative process here or getting on with the business of a shot? Who do you want to work with next?

My credentials do not merit any ego. I just get really busy and people tend to associate that with me not wanting to hang out or work with them or whatever. It’s totally the opposite. I love people too much. Professionally, I’m looking forward to working with more musicians, shooting album artwork, promotional stuff. I love that.

Ok so got your camera, your cell phone, good tunes, dashing good looks; what else is it about you that you bring to a shot to create such energetic photos?

Photoshop! Duh.

Looking back what are you most surprised about from where you were to where you are today? Was there a formula or a magic spell?

I’m surprised at all the positively in my life. I used to be a very negative person. Now I just know what I want in life and in people. At least I think I do. I know I’m going to read this months or years down the road and just laugh at myself.

And what would you say your biggest pain in the ass challenge is today to overcome?

School. Although I love making friends.

What do you absolutely love about photography?

Everything.

What’s been your favorite experience so far as a photographer and who do you look to for inspiration from within your industry?

My favorite experience from being a photographer is hearing expressed opinions from others about my work and how I’ve inspired them in some way or another. That makes me so happy. I think it helps that I’m young because it gives people my age someone to associate themselves with or derive some sort of inspiration from. Personal inspirations are Michael Jackson, Troy Jensen, music video directors, filmmakers and photographers of all sorts, graphic designers, musicians, dancers, postmen, teachers…I hate to label myself as being part of a specific industry. I hope one day to be involved with all of it. Art is one big circle.

Time for the question we’ve all been waiting for; any tips for those aspiring to be great photographer?

Live, breathe, and shit it. Period.

In 5 years where do you see your work taking you?

Far enough to travel the world but close enough to stay grounded.

Thanks again, keep shootin for the sake of us artists!!!

Thank YOU for creating this website.

Posted: January 2nd, 2008 under Elias Tahan.
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