If you admire a singer-songwriter, chances are that the talented photographer Alex Harper has captured their essence on camera. With a distinctive style that is hard to replicate, Alex has established himself as the go-to photographer for the indie music community. As a fellow songwriter, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with Alex for nearly five years. His humility and humor shine through despite his remarkable success, and I’ve always been curious about his journey. Recently, we met at his favorite spot, a cozy café in Manhattan known for its delectable treats, where we shared some doughnuts and delved into his story.
What’s capturing your interest these days?
In life? That’s a unique question! Honestly, and not just because we’re discussing photography, my favorite thing is the feeling I get when I know I’ve done a great job for an artist’s project. When an artist tells me my photo is exactly what they were looking for—that’s incredibly satisfying. The only other experience that comes close is indulging in the fried mac ‘n’ cheese at the Cheesecake Factory. They’re both amazing feelings, which might say a lot about how narrow my life’s pleasures are, but that’s where I stand, I think.
If you could take a photo that fulfilled the cravings of fried mac ‘n’ cheese, would you retire?
Fried mac ‘n’ cheese has so many conflicting desires that it might be impossible to satisfy. It’s like that aloof dad who never acknowledges you. You’ll keep eating, hoping for something more, and end up feeling sick.
Do you have a strategy for capturing the essence of artists?
Sometimes I do, but often it comes down to the artist’s openness. If the person I’m photographing is closed off or nervous, it won’t work. The backdrop or lighting can be perfect, but it won’t matter if the artist isn’t willing to let me in. It’s crucial for them to trust me and allow me to capture their true selves.
What’s your favorite doughnut?
Oh, definitely the crème brûlée doughnut!
Really? Isn’t that a bit pretentious?
Can a doughnut be pretentious? Absolutely! Just look at it—it seems to say, “I’m special!” While it may taste great, it carries an attitude. I prefer the humble ones that simply say, “Hey, I’m just a doughnut.”
Have you been following my work while on tour?
Yes! Seeing you photograph every artist I admire makes me so happy. I was in Stockholm for a show and had a life-changing experience watching one of my favorites. When I discovered you had taken her photo, it made perfect sense!
You often work with well-known artists. How do you approach these shoots?
My main goal is to portray each subject authentically. I prefer to keep discussions minimal beforehand and focus solely on the artist during the shoot. I remember shooting with a popular artist in a cramped dressing room; she insisted on clearing everyone out, and in those few minutes, I captured some of the best images of her. It’s all about creating a distraction-free space where the artist can just be themselves.
I can tell this article will turn out beautifully.
You should consider adding a tasteful black-and-white nude of me. Just a subtle curve, right?
Let’s rewind a bit. How did you get started?
I’ve always wanted to be involved in music, but I have no desire to perform or write. I began selling merchandise for a singer I met in college and gradually started taking her photos. I thought they were decent, and I began shooting any musician I could find for free. Over time, I honed my skills and eventually moved from Washington, D.C. to New York City to expand my opportunities.
Your early editing techniques seem to have influenced your current style. Do you have a specific method?
My lack of formal training has shaped my approach. I primarily focus on color balance, saturation, and contrast. I limit myself to just a few functions in editing software, which keeps my work grounded and emphasizes the emotional impact of the image rather than the technical aspects.
So, you’re not particularly fond of photography itself?
Not really—photography is just a means to an end for me. My real passion lies in the emotional connections within music. I’ve realized that my strength isn’t in technical proficiency but rather in capturing moments that resonate with people.
I feel similarly as I explore video directing. It’s all about storytelling for me too.
Absolutely! Understanding composition is essential, but it’s the drive to manifest those ideas that elevates a hobby into an art form. It’s about commitment and process, not just vague plans.
Who’s left on your dream shooting list?
Oh, besides some surprising names like Mitt Romney, there are many artists I’d love to work with, like Lykke Li and Björk. But I focus more on the quality of work rather than just checking names off a list. This year, I realized that I want to prioritize indie artists and projects that truly inspire me.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Four doughnuts, a glass of almond milk, and waking up at precisely 10 AM each day!
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Summary:
In this interview, photographer Alex Harper shares his unique perspective on his journey within the music industry, emphasizing his passion for capturing the emotional essence of artists. With a focus on authenticity and a desire to connect, he reveals his methods and the joy he finds in his work, even as he admits that photography itself isn’t his true passion. Alex prefers to prioritize quality over quantity in his projects, aiming to create meaningful connections with the artists he admires.