Profile Spotlight: Joe Thomas

[Profile Spotlights]

Who are you and what is your profession?
I'm Joe Thomas, and I'm currently a student at the Arts University in Bournemouth studying for a BA in Photography.

One Day on Earth 10.10.10 from Joe Thomas on Vimeo.

Can you tell us a little about your background and upbringing?
I'm lucky enough to have parents who have always been on the move, so I've been 'dragged' around the world a fair amount! I'd say my upbringing was full of adventure, freedom and intrigue - I like to question things, to find out how things work... I've always had support when it comes to my passions, which I'm extremely grateful for. My love of Photography stemmed from finding my Dad's film SLR in a cupboard one day; from there it's become an all-encompassing passion. From still photography came my interest in film, and only recently have I started to actually shoot a little myself. When we lived in Australia for a couple of years, I did a short course outside of normal school at the National Art School in Sydney, which went very well. Other than that, I have a National Certificate in Photography which I completed with double Distinctions at AUCB, where I'm currently doing the BA.

What inspired you to become a filmmaker?
A 'Filmmaker' is probably a strong term for me... I'd class myself as a photographer, who enjoys experimenting with film where the opportunity arrises. As for what inspired me to shoot moving images, I'd have to say Vimeo has had a massive influence. I know that's broad, but it's shown me the amount of creative potential out there. I admire the work of documentary filmmakers and can't avoid watching them on the BBC, they're just so engaging.

Who or what do you most admire?
If it's possible to answer without sounding too cliché - I admire our ability to appreciate the little things in life, when so much of the "real world" attempts to envelope us. The appreciation of holding a door open for someone. I admire true craftsmanship, hand-built goods, home-grown food and waking up in a tent when the sun rises.

What did you film on 10.10.10?
I filmed a little trip to Swanage and the surrounding Jurassic coast from Bournemouth a couple of friends and I took, just to escape suburban mundanity for the day.

What are you planning on filming for 11.11.11?
It really depends where I am, but I hope to film something that will show true life, the natural world and human fascination, whilst being aesthetically interesting and informative.

 

Paris from Joe Thomas on Vimeo.