nick elliott rock art photographer officialPart 2…Q&A with Nick
Q1. Is there any rockstar that you would want to photograph? (Marielle B. Uk)
A1. Well, that’s an easy one. Without a doubt it would be Rory Gallagher. The guy is a legend, and he is responsible with a few others for influencing my taste in music.
Q2. Cats or dogs? (Jules. S. London UK)
A2. I love all animals, but I’m going to have to go with dogs. My schnauzer friend Dudley is the best.
Q3. If you had a dinner party who would you invite, alive or dead and why. (Luisa. C. Bournemouth UK)
A3. My mum, just to see her and speak with her again. My dad for the same reasons and to ask him some questions that I never had the opportunity to before he died. Rory Gallagher, his music created a defining moment in my life, and David Bailey who I personally think changed the face of contemporary photography. And I would cook my rock ‘n’ roll chilli!
Q4. In your opinion what is the best camera that you have taken a picture with? (Jordan. Leeds UK)
A4. All cameras have different virtues. The The best camera I have ever used is a Canon. They are completely versatile, and whilst digital photography produces fantastic results, it shooting on a roll of film that separates the experts from the happy snappers. You can’t preview a shot, it’s totally reliant on light, exposure and an expert eye, when you use film. My Mamiya 67 is also a wonderful camera and a total pleasure to have in my hands.
Q5. Your house is burning down and you can only save two items what do you save.? (Lucas Leicester UK)
A5. Hi this is difficult because there are lots of things I would save, but it would have to be my memorabilia box. It contains many priceless things my mum and dad brought me when I was growing up. The second item would either be my partner Benice, or my Rolleiflex camera……I guess it’s going to have to be my Rolleiflex! She’s going to kill me when she reads this!
Q6. What is it like working with Robert Plant? Who have been the best rock band that you have worked with? (Janice S Bedford UK)
A6. Hi Jan, Robert Plant is one of my true heroes. He is a truly captivating bloke to talk to, extremely polite and down-to-earth. When I walked past him for the first time backstage, I actually shook with excitement, he’s been a massive part of my life musically. Led Zeppelin were my introduction to rock music and has remained at the core even to this day. There have been many bands that have been wonderful to work with, Rival sons, The Blockheads, Alice Cooper and Wilco Johnson to name just a few.
Q7. What influences your unique style of photography and how have you developed this? (Chris J Devon UK)
A7. The biggest influences on my style of photography where my dad at an early age, Terence Donovan, Patrick Litchfield and David Bailey who was my biggest inspiration. I also found inspiration in classic British black-and-white films and film Noir. They have so much atmosphere. My style developed with these influences that allowed me the freedom to express myself in my art and dare to push the boundaries of photography. Music also played a part in developing my inner awareness. Dark Side Of The Moon by Pink Floyd was the LSD of the music world.
Q8. Who are the best bands that you have seen live? (Paul T Newport UK)
A8. Hi Paul. I’ve seen many bands ,and artists that have had an immense impact on me as a creative and personally. The most prolific band that comes to mind is AC/DC, that gig changed my life to the core. Although I never shot him, Rory Gallagher was incredible, I saw him play three times. Others that were so wonderful to witness and be part of a musical union were Joanne Shaw Taylor, status quo, the darkness, ZZ Top, Metallica, levellers, and Ozzy.
Q9. Do you wear some pretty cool clothes. Do you always dress like this? I am taking a fashion degree at Leeds University and your dress sense inspires me. (Sam O Leeds UK)
A9. The contents of my wardrobe are a total expression of myself. Over the last few years I have become more experimental with my look, and it’s really liberating. It’s given me extra confidence and keeps me in touch with my inner self. I believe that what you wear represents your personality and identifies us as a person. Nothing should be off-limits. I feel people who judge others fashion sense are trapped in a mediocre, expressionless existence and can’t identify with themselves. So mix the colours up, wear spots and stripes and do what you Gotta do. Good luck with the studies Sam.
Q10. Are you a tit or a bum man? (Mark W Oxford UK)
A10. Tits every time!
If you have a question for Nick please send it to Benicebond@icloud.com and we will include them in the next Q&A session. please note some questions have been shortened.