Ross Buswell, who shoots under the name ‘Atmospherics’, is a multidisciplinary art director and photographer with over 30 years experience working professionally in the visual arts. Through formal lighting processes and a keen eye for detail, his photography transports the viewer into the actual mood, silence, and atmosphere of the environment he’s shooting. With a deep connection to the natural world, this Vancouver native is interested in combining time-honoured technical processes with the power and flexibility of digital media to produce work that is both provocative and accessible.
Thanks Ross Buswell, for accepting our invite. Please read on…
Could you please introduce yourself?
Ross Buswell, I shoot under the name “Atmospherics” it’s an extension of my graphic design company called “Atmosphere Design”
What first drew you to photography and how did you discover it?
When I was around 10 years old, I was given an old Kodak Instamatic film camera It was an immediate connection.
What kindled your interest in landscape photography, what Inspired you?
The silence and vastness of mountains, forests, and wide open uninhabited spaces, especially in winter or in harsh weather. It humbles you and puts life and the universe into perspective – it reminds you that it’s bigger and more powerful than all of us. I like to try and capture that vastness in my pictures.
Is there any Ross Buswell Style?
I would say there’s an “Atmospherics” style and I’m trying to further that style all the time and not be complacent. I like to keep the general subject simple and create depth with light, clouds, mist, colour and tones. Also being from Vancouver, BC, I’m constantly connected to mountains and the outdoors and changing weather conditions.
Before you start a shoot, how will you prepare yourself?
I have my bag setup and ready to go all the time. Whether I’m flying out on a trip somewhere or if I’m just walking out of my front door.
Sometimes I have time to setup shots with tripods and time exposures with neutral density filters. etc, and sometimes I’m just pulling my camera out of my bag quickly to get the shot when the light is just right in that moment. I use 2 cameras – one setup for wide angle and one setup with my telephoto.
Your favorite place for landscape photography?
At home in BC, it’s pretty much any mountain area when the weather and light hit it right. But the Rockies around Jasper National park and Golden, BC in general, are pretty special, especially in late autumn early winter when the first snows comes. Internationally I’m really drawn to northern arctic regions right now – that said, I have a large list of locations I still need to get to.
What difference does photography create in your life?
It lets me disconnect with my day to day worklife and reconnect with the earth and universe. Allows me to immerse myself in my creative passion.
In your idea, what makes a good photograph?
Individuality, depth, and soul. A definite connection you feel when you’re looking at it. You don’t have to think about it.
What is the best compliment you received so far?
I’m not sure it’s just one in particular, I appreciate anyone who connects with my images. I get a lot of amazing heartfelt comments on my Instagram and Flickr accounts. It really keeps me on track and motivated – that I’m doing something right creatively that connects with people.
Which photographers have inspired you?
I grew up loving the visual work of Stanley Kubrick, Vaughn Oliver, Wim Wenders, Anton Corbjn, Peter Saville….
What camera do you use the majority of the time?
A Nikon D750, a Sony A7R and a Blackmagic Cinema Camera. I still have my old film cameras and occasionally worth with my old negatives.
Favorite Music?
A wide range but when it comes to being inspired for landscapes I would have to say ambient electronic music.
What’s your personal motto?
Do what you love.
Thanks again for providing 121 Clicks with this opportunity to interview you. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Develop your own style, be original, use social media but don’t be a slave to it.
You can find Ross Buswell on the Web:
Copyrights:
All the pictures in this post are copyrighted Ross Buswell (Atmospherics Photography). Their reproduction, even in part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.
