Photographers We Love: Gary van Wyk

INTERVIEWED BY Lindi Brownell Meiring

Season III of the acclaimed 21 Icons project is going to be a little bit different this time around.

Adrian Steirn, known for his black and white portraits of some of the nation’s most notable individuals in Seasons I and II, will be switching roles with the project’s behind-the-scenes photographer, the talented Gary van Wyk. We chat to Gary to find out more about his aesthetic, what we can expect from the new series and what inspires him about South Africa.

1. In the first two seasons of 21 Icons, you captured behind-the-scenes footage as Adrian Steirn took the portraits. How do you feel about changing it up this season?

I’m incredibly excited about this opportunity and having the chance to work with these remarkable people. Adrian has taken some very special photographs during the first two seasons, so I have big shoes to fill. But that’s part of what makes it so exciting. If we don’t challenge ourselves, we’ll never grow.

2. With you at the helm, Season III of 21 Icons sees a move from black and white images to colour photography. How does this change the way you shoot?

A lot more needs to be considered when shooting colour in comparison to black and white. Locations, wardrobe and the overall colour balance all need to be decided long in advance before the actual shoot. I find that photographing in colour is a lot more complex than photographing in black and white. You need great light for colour to come to life; but when you get it right, light is what turns the ordinary into magic.

3. Who have you most enjoyed shooting as part of Season III so far, and why?

It’s very difficult to say. Each icon is unique and inspiring and every single story we’ve come across so far has been deeply moving. If we’re talking about the photographs from a technical perspective, Laduma Ngxokolo’s portrait has been the most challenging to make so far. So, I would say that his portrait has been my favourite.

4. In your show reel clip, Adrian says, “Gary is going to shoot it in a truly South African way, his personal way.” What does he mean by this? What defines your aesthetic?

I come from a news and documentary background, so my photographs are generally of spontaneous moments. I’d like for this feeling to come through in the Season III portraits. I’d like each photograph to give the feel that it’s a scene that I happened upon by chance.

5. How does South Africa inspire your work?

It’s impossible not to live in South Africa and be inspired by this beautiful country. It’s vibrant, colourful and diverse. Our people are so full of life. There is so much creativity coming out of our country and there always has been, so I think that I’m incredibly fortunate to have the chance to document part of it.

6. What, for you, defines a South African icon?

A South African icon is someone who has followed their heart no matter what. I’m inspired by the people who have made the most of the opportunities given to them, who have found a way to help others achieve their dreams.

7. Where can our readers see more of your work?

You can see more of my work on the 21 Icons and Ginkgo Agency websites. I also have a photography page on Facebook.

Watch the Series III short-film premiere, featuring visual artist Athi-Patra Ruga, on SABC 3 at 7:27pm on 6 September 2015.