Photographer Shawn Walters spent years working professionally with digital cameras, for commercial clients and tourism boards, and even as a Sony ambassador. But despite having access to the latest technology, something was missing. He found himself drawn to slower, more deliberate ways of making photographs, eventually landing on large-format film photography.

In this episode, Shawn discusses his transition from digital to film, why he fell in love with the 8×10 view camera, and the creative freedom he found in slowing down. We also explore two long-term projects he is currently developing: The American Dream, a series examining the tension between ordinary American life and the growing influence of industry and corporations, and The Locals, a portrait project documenting people and small businesses in his community.

Rather than looking back on a completed body of work, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the early stages of a photographer discovering where a project might lead. We talk about composition, color, large format workflow, portraiture, creative uncertainty, and the challenge of building meaningful work while balancing family life and raising young children.

Website: lifeandmylens.com

Foto: @lifeandmylens

IG: @lifeandmylens

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