The Australian-born, London-based photographer puts a romantic spin on a Thomas Pink shirt and talks surrealism, simplicity and the inspiration of cinema
When considering what to shoot for this, I was keen to make it meaningful and with a story that came before the image was actually taken. It dawned on me that it being our first year of marriage, the image should be about my wife. I tend towards a sense of surreal, heightened life and thought there was something visually arresting but also loving about the act of holding and looking at each other, even if we are not right next to each other. Physical distance has always been a part of our relationship due to our work and lives, but I wanted to make an image that said I’m with you no matter where.
I have always tried to keep my pictures existing in all manner of places and contexts. I come from a cinematic and theatrical background so have been drawn to stories and narratives. Documentary and photobooks are often roots to draw from, but I take those elements and use them whenever I can in fashion and editorial too. I try to always make it grounded in narrative and have the context be changeable around that.
Cinema probably has had the biggest general influence on me. I would say anything that conjures up my imagination. Whether it’s a movie, a book, a painting, something I come across or am told. Experiences that transport you somewhere. Anything that makes the hairs on your body stand up.
Context is important. Imagination plays an important role, too. A picture that lasts over time is made up of these inexplicable elements. So, to me, it’s an image that transcends meaning and allows the viewer to both understand it through the photographer’s eyes and simultaneously through their own experience.
I thought these questions were supposed to get easier, ha! I feel as though I often go into a frenzy when photographing, and can never seem to remember the act of actually taking a specific picture. One that sticks out, because I do remember taking it, was of a lonely boy sat at the end of a wooden jetty, staring out over the ocean at the world in a very solemn way. There was something so honest and true about it. Sad and also very beautiful, as a moment.
Simplicity. Refined and well cut. Most importantly, the person in it. A shirt should be worn, it should never wear you. Then again, what do I know?
Follow Miro on Instagram @miros_of_the_3rd