Jacques Weyers: I’m just a guy trying to make a living doing what I love.
Which place do you call home?
Cape Town South Africa
Are you self taught or schooled?
I assisted for 8 years.
How did you get into photography?
I studied Graphic Design but fell in love with the photography working closely with pictures in my layouts.
How long have you been a photographer?
15 Years
As you look through the viewfinder, what is the most critical moment in capturing your image?
It’s the moment when the light and the performance meet perfectly in the middle.
How would you describe your style?
I strive to meet the balance between Commercial “Hollywood” and artistic “French Cinema”
What do you think makes a truly memorable photo?
Any image where the subject truly loves the image of themselves.
We know each of us has someone or something that inspires our life and work. Can you tell us the true basis of your inspiration?
I Find Inspiration in everything. Old movies, old buildings, the ocean, light, people’s life’s stories. When you open yourself up to it, you find it everywhere.
What does fashion mean to you?
I prefer it when fashion tells a story. I’m not really interested in fashion for clothing but I love fashion that has has a narrative.
What’s the craziest/funniest thing that ever happened in one of your shoots?
It wasn’t funny at the time but the craziest was my model being attacked by my prop, a cheetah. Luckily the handlers were close and able to take control of the situation. Besides for a few holes in the clothes the model as unharmed.
What photographers from the past or present have influenced you the most?
I honestly try not be influenced by other photographers. If I had to choose one Id say Peter Lindbergh for his ability to tell a story.
What has been your favorite photo location or session?
My favorite location was an old steel mill. I love derelict locations that have a sense of time.
What type of cameras do you shoot with?
I shoot on a Nikon D800
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
The 24-70 f2.8 for its versatility and it has the best glass for an SLR
Do you prefer flash or daylight?
I much prefer Daylight or continuous daylight
What is your favorite photography accessory, other than your camera?
My Hoodman which allows me to look at the images on the back of my camera with clarity especially when shooting on the beach.
How important is Photoshop in your final images?
I try keep things as real as possible and use Photoshop mainly for color grading. The worse the skin is though the more prominent Photoshop becomes but with out making it looks false.
How important is a website and social media for your business?
Very Important, probably the most important tool for marketing your work.
Do you listen to music while doing your shooting? If so, what are you playing right now?
Yes, I always play music that differs from Studio to Location. I’m a Rock’nRoller at heart but play deep house id studio. I’m also a huge Blues fan and currently listening to Gary Clark Junior.
What advice do you have for somebody who wants to pursue photography?
Stay true to your vision and fight for what you believe but don’t be a dick about it.
What lies ahead for you?
I’m off to Los Angeles and New York Next year for some inspiration after of that I really don’t know. Tile will tell.
