BEN WATTS HIPSTAMATIC APP

In this new, more technologically democratic era, we all have access to pretty much the same tools. The mystery of photography has almost completely vanished and it has come back to composition and capturing moments. It was only a matter of time before the hugely popular Hipstamatic app—which allows users to choose from a selection of lenses and films to create vintage-style photos with warmth and imperfect charm—would start collaborating with star photographers. Though Photoshop has long helped many professionals and amateurs alike to mimic Herb Ritts, Guy Bourdin, and other fashion photo legends, we can now do it all from a phone. Whether you use it for work or for fun, it’s definitely an interesting development. Who wouldn’t want their party pictures to have the feeling of Testino or maybe McGinley, depending on your mood. English fashion and celebrity photographer Ben Watts recently worked with Hipstamatic on a custom lens and film that will definitely add an extra layer of fun to your vacation snaps.

Magnus Berger: How did you get the idea to do your own app?

Ben Watts: This app was born from another idea. I mentioned it to my good friend Mazdack Rassi and he suggested I collaborate with Hipstamatic for Part 1 of this project.

MB: How would you describe your style and the look of your images, and how is that translated to the app?

BW: The app is signature of my style, I love high-contrast, saturated color. Anything that pops out, any colors that are confrontational. I collage everything with fluoro tape—my app adds the profile and tape to your own pics.

MB: In what way does it change your method of taking pictures? Do people behave differently in front of an iPhone than let’s say a 4×5?

BW: They don’t take it seriously, which makes for great imagery as it’s more easy come, easy go, which matches my style. People are more comfortable and confident with no inhibitions. Being able to show and share the result gives instant gratification plus the ability to post immediately. I use my iPhone and app to take all personal pics, and I have shot a few editorials on it. Through the social media outlet I want everything of mine seen to link to my brand. Hopefully this makes people inspired to pick up the lens and shoot.

MB: What else are you working on right now?

BW: An exhibition of all my music pics shot over the last fifteen years as part of the Blue Balls Festival in Switzerland.

MB: What’s your favorite subject to photograph?

BW: My favorite subject is whatever’s in front of my camera…I love taking pictures of everything from interesting people to cool cars.

MB: Which photographer’s app would you want to have?

BW: If Danny Lyon and Bruce Davidson had an app I would have them for sure.

MB: Can anyone be Ben Watts now?

BW: Yes—it’s called Watts Big Up Lens BondiPak from Hipstamatic…In the digital world anybody can borrow a bit of anyone else.

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