Photographer Spotlight – Paul Simon
Tell us about yourself…
I am a 74-year-old retired Dermatologist, since 2013, where I practiced in Hallandale, Florida. I am happily married for 49 years, have two sons, one daughter in law, two beautiful granddaughters, and Ollie (our Labradoodle). He makes us “toe the mark” and rules the house. I live in Fort Lauderdale. And in my spare time, I am a partner in a real estate company that develops land and manufactured housing projects.
How did you discover your love for infared photography?
I became “drawn” to the scenes Infrared produces – surreal, moody, sublime, haunting, and long exposures are all adjectives that describe its appeal. There is an “ethereal glow,” which is contrasty. I further developed an interest in B&W Infrared photography, where an image is reduced to its basic geometry-lines, shapes, and tonality. All this contributed to my becoming an Infrared B&W photographer.
Who are some of your favorite photographers? (Past or Present)
The Infrared B&W work of Mitch Dobrowner is exceptional. Joel Tjintjelaar, Cole Thompson, and Michael Kenna are some of my favorite photographers I also follow.
Why did you choose Phase One to build your ultimate B&W Infrared Camera system?
Can you describe a photographically challenging situation that you were confronted with that you were able to resolve on the fly?
One thing that a medium format system requires is to work slower. This workflow becomes fairly consistent for most of the time unless the light is rapidly changing. When this happens, I need to react quickly and make the necessary adjustments before it changes again, or I miss the shot.
How did the upgrade from IQ3 100 to IQ4 150 change your workflow?
Both the IQ3 100 and IQ4 150 are exceptional systems. My workflow has remained similar for both. However, the detail and dynamic range that I can capture with the IQ4 is outstanding. I can push the limits of long exposure with frame averaging or use dual exposure + without any problems. The upgrades to the IQ4 have made it much easier to use. I know that my imported raw files will show scenes closely as I saw them on my LCD while in the field.
What is your favorite underrated photographic tool? Why? (Can you please share a picture of it?)
My favorite tool that I use photographically would have to be my entire system of the IQ4 Achromatic back with a Cambo 1600 and Rodenstock lenses. This system allows me to enjoy my time in the field and to make fine images.
After starting with the Phase One XF, you decided to change your system to a complete Cambo Technical camera setup, what things did you benefit from during that switch?
The system that I am using is entirely manual. It forces me to slow down and take my time, which helps me “get it right” in camera. I have better control of perspective with tilt and shift on each of my Rodenstock lenses. Being able to switch from Landscape to Portrait modes without removing my Cambo 1600 from the tripod is a pleasure. These benefits with excellent quality allow me to make files that I am happy with consistently.
If you were behind your camera and could choose anything you wanted to be in your viewfinder, where would you be and what would you be looking at?
I love the outdoors, and if I could be anywhere today, I would be looking at the mountain ranges in Patagonia. Their beauty is unparalleled and would be a bonus when photographed in B&W Infrared.
Why did you select Capture Integration as your equipment partner?
I first met Chris Snipes in 2017. I was impressed with his knowledge, dedication, and desire to help me. He pointed me then and over the last three years in the right direction. When we spoke, he always took his time and got back to me quickly with unanswered questions. This is what a customer needs and is why I use Capture Integration as my partner.
Connect with Paul Simon
Website: www.Paulsimonphotography.net
