Community Spotlight: Hamish (@hamishcastricum) and Mike Mendez (@neufotomacher)

Being one of the largest analogue photography communities on the web, we are proud of the creativity and diversity of our members. For this month's Community Spotlight, we are pleased to introduce to you Lomographers Hamish (@hamishcastricum) and Mike (@neufotomacher) and their unique way of seeing the world.

Name: Hamish Castricum
LomoHome: @hamishcastricum
Location: Netherlands

Hi, Hamish @! What do you do and what got you started with photography?

I'm from the Netherlands as you've probably seen on my profile. I got started in photography because I was interested in old vintage analog cameras. My father gave me his Nikon F50 to start but my collection right now contains about six cameras (some with mechanical fails, some working perfectly).

How did you discover Lomography and what made you join our analogue Community? Who are your favorite photographers here?

I got hold of Lomography when I Googled the word because I did not know what it meant, but now I get it completely. I just started so I haven't really found my fave photographers yet on this platform.

What is your favorite subject to photograph? What do you usually look for in a scene before you hit the shutter?

The things I like to photograph are mainly the things that interest me right in the moment. I like to photograph old things as vintage cars and old architecture but also a lot of nature and landscapes. Still figuring out how portraits work but i'm waiting for some rolls so that should be interesting.

In this day and age, why choose film?

I believe film is pretty cool tech, the way I see it. I think that learning photography is best achieved with using film instead of digital cameras.

What does a perfect day look like for you?

I don't really look for perfect days to be honest. I just go out with friends and bring my camera(s). Of course, collecting cameras is also part of my photography journey as I do with music in the form of collecting records.

Name: Mike Mendez
LomoHome: @neufotomacher
Location: Inland Empire of Southern California

Hi, Mike! What do you do and what got you started with photography?

I'm a Free-lance hydrogeologist. My dad had an Argus C-3 Matchmatic and a few different Polaroids and even an old Diana from the 60's. I liked taking photos. I don't know what happened to the Diana.

How did you discover Lomography and what made you join our analogue Community? Who are your favorite photographers here?

A friend turned me on originally. Favorites change/persist. I like when I find something I never thought of before. I get lots of advice from Troch, Herbert-4, Akula, Captainfantastic, et al. I know I am missing lots of people on this list. Lots of talented people here.

What makes you stay with film photography in this day and age?

Digital is convenient, but film is more permanent.

For you, what's the best part about being a Lomographer?

Freedom. Being connected with a global community.

What is your favorite Lomography camera and film and why?

Probably Holgas with their tried and true zone focus system. I get lots of positive comments from non-Lomographers when they see images from my Dianas. These cameras wonderfully light in weight.

Favorite film: Lomochrome purple. I wish I could get more of that Xpro 200 slide film. I really liked that. Lady Grey 400 is nice for black and white.

Stay tuned for our monthly Community Spotlight to discover the work of some of the most talented Lomographers!

written by cheeo on 2020-07-31 #culture #news #people #interview #netherlands #neufotomacher #community-spotlight #hamishcastricum