Los Angeles photographer Toky
One Nation Magazine caught up with renowned photographer Toky whose portfolio amongst others includes Mark Salling from the hit-series GLEE.
Tell us about you?
I’m 32 years old. I was born in Mexico but have been an Angelino for the past 10 years. I lived in the same house for the first 22 years of my life. My mom was a Diplomat and my dad an ER Doctor. I was the most regular introverted artistic type kid… I went through all different interests and had after school classes for everything. My mom always believed in learning about everything so drawing, English, French, Japanese, piano, singing, karate, gymnastics, etc… where many of the things I learned and was exposed to. Ironically photography never crossed my mind back then!
How did you get into photography?
By accident. I was studying to be a musician and I helped a friend that needed some graphic design for a CD he was cutting. There was such a strong reaction to how the photos turned out that I decided to study photography. Before I knew it my time in the music practice room was dwindling down while my time in the dark room kept increasing. I really feel that the some cosmic energy interfered to show me how it felt to have a talent or a gift and how easy it’s supposed to feel to be doing what you love.
Are you a self-taught photographer or did you have a mentor that showed you the ropes?
I went to school. I was lucky to learn the traditional way of photography first. Black and white film, view camera, traditional dark room printing, etc. Then I had incredible internship opportunities where I learned from some great photographers like Blake Little and Danielle Levitt. Seeing how big Hollywood shoots came about and everything that went into it was an invaluable learning experience.
Celia by James Bowers from Toky Photography on Vimeo.
What sort of equipment and software do you use?
Right now Camera wise I use 50d, 5d and 7d. I’m a Canon guy all the way. As far as lighting it varies depending on what my project is. Software-wise I do all my tweaking in Photoshop CS4.
Who would be the person you would most love to shoot?
I would love to photograph Vanessa Williams. She is one of the most beautiful people in the world.
What is your opinion on post-processing, especially enhancing pictures?
Though I don’t do much post-processing besides contrast, curves, brightness and color, I’m not opposed to it. My own personal work is simpler and all about my interaction with my subject. However one or two of my projects have required extensive retouching and compositing and it was a great experience that I wouldn’t mind repeating.
Black & White or Colour photography?
Both. I really miss my school days when I had to work on everything on film and print it myself in a darkroom. There was certain feeling of craftsmanship and artistry that you don’t have with color/digital. But, as a business, I embrace the future and technology of color and digital.
Where is your favorite location to take pictures, in your studio or location? And how do you decide on locations and subjects?
In my studio. I like controlled environments where there is no rush and I can create a comfortable area for subjects where we can experiment. Locations always tends to be places that relate to the subject in one way or another. I’m not a fan of the “contrast” idea of taking the subject outside their element to make a statement. I think you can make a much stronger statement when they are in their own environment.
Where is the most spectacular place you’ve ever been?
I photographed a baby being born last year. It was a home birth and I have to say that even though it was just “a room” at a house, the energy and feeling in the air of peace and happiness and a new life coming into the world made that the most extraordinary and spectacular place to be in.
What would you say to other enthusiastic photographers out there who aspire to what you’ve achieved?
I would say to first make sure this is for you. Assist and intern as much as possible so you get a sense of all the possibilities there are. Not all styles of photography are for everyone. Know that in some case you will need to deal with a lot of people and circumstances. Once you get all that in… forget it. Do your own thing. Never follow anyone’s career or style. Create your own signature look and make it evolve constantly.
Whom do you look up to in the photographic world?
I love the work of Rankin.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Film Director.
What is the ONE lasting impression you want to leave in your photos?
To leave a memory of my image in the viewers brain. To be something they can recall later on. To be memorable.
Your top 5 websites you think people should visit?
First, mine! Hahaha: www.tokyphotography.com
I love what this guy is doing: www.aphotostudent.com
Always inspiring to see all the creativity out there: www.vimeo.com
Currently -obsessed- with: www.jakandjil.com
My buddies over at: www.idolradec.com have some neat guys clothing. I want to own it all.
Images © Toky Photography www.tokyphotography.com
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Fantastic pictures and love the video
[...] Promotion, Toky Photography, Wonderful Machine by tokyphotography on March 30, 2010 Head over to One Nation Magazine and check out a nice interview/profile they did with yours [...]
Just looked at your portfolio – incredible!