Life & Work with Robert Carl Swann of Raleigh/Durham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Carl Swann

Hi Robert Carl, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I can remember exactly when I wanted to pick up a camera; my grandfather had been a photographer and documented Korea and Vietnam and I remember we had donated some photos to the Smithsonian with my mom holding onto the rest. I looked at them quite a bit growing up and always had a want to pursue it, but we grew up pretty poor so it wasn’t something I could really do until life brought me down here. I think the first camera I purchased was a Nikon D7200 and a Minolta X700 off of Amazon shortly after that.

Things just sort of took off from there.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, I think there’s always challenges in any field that you pursue. I think the biggest obstacle for me has been mental health, especially after the passing of my best friend. I lacked inspiration for some time after that, but it’s important to just continue because that’s all you really can do in the end.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a photographer that specializes in photojournalistic works and portraiture. I’ve shot exclusively in film for a number of years, most of the film being expired which I feel gives my images a unique life to it. I think my favorite thing about my work is how unique each set of images are from the previous. They have their own character and stories and that’s what I strive for.

I think I’m most proud of how I’ve been able to capture others expression through my lenses and really tell through showing a person through film. I believe having a photo taken of yourself is really intimate and can reveal much about a person’s soul even.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’d say my process, I’m typically rather laid back during shoots and try to capture my work as if I’m capturing candids. Most people are always shocked by the length of time and how easy it feels and ultimately the most shocking thing for each person I’ve worked with are the results. It’s always beautiful seeing people react positively to themselves.

Pricing:

• Varies depending on the project and length of time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.robertcswann.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anacostian/