Creative: Apartment HD

One of my favorite Blurb things to do is invite creatives to my hotel lobby so I can look at their works and books. This is how I met Natasha Lara Hughes and James Dean Diamond, also known as ApartmentHD. The lobby of my hotel tucked in nicely next to the Tower of London. They came with prints, a sure sign there’s been thought involved. We lined the prints up along the wall of the hotel and had a look at their London project.

You will notice a few things when you look at their work and sites. Creative education, diverse and interesting backgrounds, a high-level client list, awards, numerous collaborations and shows, simple sites, and cohesiveness to their work. I also love Natasha’s artworks and installations. As I get older and my brain goes walkabout, I am learning that my love of photography is enhanced by mixed media. I suck at art, so people who can produce artworks rocket to the top of my jealousy list. Seeing installations is the cherry on top. Works realized.

I was only able to spend a short amount of time with Natasha and James, but I felt an immediate connection because they are interesting, experienced people who love what they do. They also attended the Blurb PhotoWalk so we could spend a few more minutes wandering and talking. (Sorry I didn’t get more of a chance to talk with you, but that’s the life of the photowalk.) This post’s lead image is their take on the Blurb walk.

It’s almost impossible for me to comprehend that I took my foot off the photographic gas fifteen years ago. FIFTEEN YEARS. Taking my foot off the gas allowed me to look around, and I’ve been doing so ever since. I look at everything. I’m curious, and I can spot other curious people a mile away. Subtle hints. It could be their wardrobe, jewelry, vocabulary, sense of humor, or intensity in knowing we are all on a clock. Whatever creativity you want to express, better do it now, and they operate under that pressure, acknowledgment, or understanding. I love meeting people who unintentionally motivate me. This happens quite a lot, thankfully. I’m motivated by my students, colleagues, and new friends like Natasha and James.

My friend Frank talks about something he does or thinks when he reviews someone else’s work and finds something he likes. “I hate you,” he says. He doesn’t hate the person. This is a sign of respect because it means he wishes he would have made the picture. When I see Natasha’s image above or James’s image below, I feel a bit of envy. Wish I had made that. Work harder, do more, take more risks. I love the fact that there is just enough sharp, just enough of an anchor point to hook me in. This is low percentage photography, but the percentage that works does so incredibly well. I see this work as having many uses. Prints, editorial, commercial, or even advertising. Have a look around these sites and works, and if you feel inclined, reach out and let them know your thoughts. Thanks to the pair for allowing me to feature their work.