Tell Beall Incorporates Digital Art in Medium Format Portraiture

Whether it's scanning, editing, or even using our images to make new digital creations, we live in a world where technology has an inevitable effect on the way we process photography. Today, Atlanta-based photographer and cinematographer Tell Beall is here to present a series of analogue portraits including an image combined with his own digital artwork, all shot on medium format Lomography Color Negative 800 film.

Let's hear from Tell and check out his photos!

Hi Tell and welcome to Lomography Magazine! Can you please give us an introduction to yourself and your work?

Thank you so much for having me. I'm a multi-talented creative specializing in film photography and cinematography.

Was this your first time shooting with Lomography film? What were your impressions of Lomography Color Negative 800?

Yes, it was my first time. I've seen so many reviews so I was itching to find the stock, and when I unexpectedly found it at this new film store not too far from me, I couldn't help but to grab a roll just to have in the fridge. I loved the boldness of the colors, the amount of noise was just perfect. You're able to see my process as well in this video on my YouTube channel.

Can you tell us about the digital artwork featured in one of your images? What made you want to experiment with this in your photography?

I actually created it. I've been reading into Jean Basquiat recently and he's been inspiring the abstract expression in my work. I told myself I want my work to provide more of my personal thoughts and truths. Being able to embody the image to be its own story and original is my goal for each piece of work. It's been teaching me to do things out of the ordinary and intuitively. It's too fun. I recently started this relationship by merging the two because I'm so old school, but I'm willing to dabble into anything that catches my eye.

Why do you love medium format?

I love medium format because of the process. I use a Mamiya RB67 and I love the heavy thing. I love how it's mechanical. It's a professional grade of gear for film photography. And lastly, I admire winding 120 film. I have 35mm cameras, and I love them but they're mostly for lifestyle and candid use. But whenever I want to step it up, I'm going to use medium format. I would love to get my hands on a Bessa R2A though.

Do you have a favorite photo from this series? What do you love about it?

Yes, my favorite photo is actually the image I drew on. I just enjoyed the flow and state of mind when editing it, but also, the image itself was my favorite on the roll! But what most won't know is that Trent, my subject, was actually out of focus, but the composition was so fire.

What are you inspired by?

Love, and helping others. I genuinely love what I do. I tell people all the time that most of my work is free. Even though it's cool to collect a check, the camera is a part of me.

You mainly shoot portraits. What are some of the techniques you use to get the best out of your models?

I look to have the model embrace themself as much as possible. For example, I got a couple photos of Trent smiling because he has an amazing smile but also because it's part of him! Every time I see him he's elated and just happy to be, one of the main reasons I chose him for a muse.

Do you have any tips, tricks or advice for anyone who wants to try shooting medium format in a studio setting?

Yes, make sure you're test shooting on a digital camera if you don't have a light meter, or get one. Don't second guess your focus and be patient. When I mean be patient, literally take breaths as you're shooting so you're stable. Play with different film stocks. Expose a stop for your film because it'll be a tad bit darker then you expect if testing on a digital camera. And lastly, make sure you know what shutter speed you need to shoot on for your medium format camera, specifically!

Do you have any recent or upcoming projects you'd like to share with the community?

Yes, I'll be hosting my first art show, Cloud 9ine, next month in Atlanta! I'll be displaying some work, selling pieces, and bringing some other artists as well. The show will be free to the community!

Anything else you'd like to share?

Keep shootin', and keep fueling love and community in creative spaces, that's how we grow collectively. Peace.

Thanks Tell for joining us! If you'd like to keep up with his work, you can find him on Instagram, YouTube, or his website.

written by alexa_alexiades on 2024-03-02 #people #medium-format #studio #120-film #lomography-color-negative-800 #digital-art