Brilliance by Read Brilliance

"I am always looking for new and different minimal shots. So, if you notice the above word, "Brilliant!" in the comment section of your photo, it will only be a matter of time before you are contacted and invited to take part in the next issue of the Brilliance magazine, due in the Fall. Until then, keep posting those extraordinary minimal photos."

@brilliancemagazine - Instagram

@brilliancemagazine

brilliancemagazine@yahoo.com

Cover Photo by Benny Lims

abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 0123456789 Baskerville Light Italic & Italic

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789 Palatino (+italic )

The Brilliance magazine is digitally published on its Instagram page @brilliancemagazine. Design layout and edits are by Michael Bryant & by contributors. Irving, Texas

Photo by Eric Lee @azwethinkheiz Instagram 3

utting together a magazine, at first, seemed easy, but I was mistaken. I wanted a magazine as big and as popular as any other established magazine on the market. It's great to dream big, but it's advantageous to dream smart was the lesson that I had to learn - which pointed me in the direction and journey of what it is like in making a magazine function. English lawyer and philosopher, Francis Bacon Sr. was quoted in saying the following about integrity: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It's not what we eat, but what we digest that makes us strong; not what we gain but what we save that makes us rich; not what we read but what we remember that makes us learned; and not what we profess but what we practice that gives us integrity.â&#x20AC;?

After reading that quote, I had decided that the theme for the Brilliance magazine would be minimal photography with integrity, or "elements of minimal". Integrity stands the tests of time, it breaks most barriers and keeps in pace with progress and in many cases sets trends and standards. As far back as I can remember, I have been a person that wanted to learn, instruct and share information and then bring people along with me on that journey, like being on a field trip. I remember back in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades that when school would let out for the summer and while my peers were trying their best to get away from the papers and the exams and classroom structure and teachers, to go and play, I would be huddled with teachers in some of the classrooms and asking them for their extra test papers that they would be throwing into the trash. I looked at those papers with excited eyes. I was a nerd before that word became a popular word. I remember saying to myself, "Now, me and my brothers and sisters can have school at home and take tests!" One day my mom came into my sisters' bedroom where I had papers stacked in boxes everywhere and a few of my brothers and sisters taking tests on a Friday night. She announced, "Michael! Vance! Bry-ant!!! School is out for the summer! Let your brothers and sisters go play, and you go play too." I was embarrassed and hurt but she was right.

Today, I'm still a workaholic, but I do play in order to keep myself balanced because I can take a project and work it beyond "to death". So my journey really was how to work and play with less and make it more powerful and fun. Brilliance was born. The Brilliance magazine won't involve too much reading but it will highlight and focus attention on minimal photography accompanied with interviews from photographers about how they arrived at their subjects in mind. I also learned that the journey can be like a pilot that taxies a 747 Airbus down the runway and soar up into the sky. Join me on this great adventure of volume 1 of Brilliance. Turbulence will be minimal.

Michael Bryant Editor

Teresa Freed "Ghost Trail" @teresafreed - Instagram

Flight 370 Without pushing the idea of never flying ever again, this photo is dedicated to those lost souls on flight 370. As much as I have been glued to news reports on TV I am left hollow from the past updates about the disappearance of the Malaysian airliner. I used to fly until the catastrophic event on 9/11. Since then I have been building up courage to return back to flying as a means of travel. It is obvious that something awful happened to that airplane. What happened? Who knows. Most of us have no idea, but I do believe that someone knows something. Without speculation, without prejudice and without rage for the innocent, I resolve to face each day and remain calm about the mysteriousness of this flight. I hope the families have others in their midst to encourage them when they are terrified, and there to listen to them when what they have to express is all they want to exercise at that moment and when the tears well up that there are loved ones always around to console them and to protect their raw emotions and emptiness. With a heavy heart I know that much hope for survivors may seem fruitless, but at least we can reach out to those families, in some kind of method, to make their days less impossible to bear.

Photographer Benny Lims is a jack of all trades in the photography arena. He photographs toddlers, newlyweds and commercial video, and he has a few impressive minimal photos in his Instagram gallery.

Benny Lims Photographer, Founder of Juniapics & Dad Part of the World: Indonesia Equipment: Canon 1DX, Fujifilm X100s, Fujifilm XE2, Fujifilm XT1

Benny is the kind of guy I would call a rock star of photography. So, I was extremely happy when he said "Yes" to sharing his photos and temporarily lending one of his photos "Eiffel" to Brilliance as a cover shot. First of all, I would like to congratulate you and your wife on the birth of your baby! Very cute bundle of joy!

Thanks man. How long have you been perusing a photography career, or do you call it that? In the year 2010, I started my photography company Junia (for baby and kids photography @juniapics) and Nomina (for wedding photography @nominapics).

That is awesome! Multiple companies. How has your photography been affected by Instagram? For me, Instagram is a means share my daily life. But the affect of Instagram has brought me some overseas clients who know me from Instagram.

Thank you Benny. I had noticed how good your photography is and began wondering about something. Which brings me to my next question: Are you a professional photographer, and what sort of photography are you shooting these days?

Yes. I am a professional photographer. I photograph infants, kids, maternity, family settings and also wedding photography.

How many cameras do you have? 6 cameras: Sony T7 was my first camera. Canonet range finder when I tried film. Canon 1DX, Fujifilm X100s, Fujifilm XE2, Fujifilm XT1.

Very impressive! Do you remember your first photo you ever shot? For the first time I used my Sony T7 for shooting macro stuff. The first shot I ever took was for work. I used a Kmm to shoot kids photography.

Well, I wanna Thank you for granting Brilliance magazine this email interview, and especially for allowing me to use one of your photos as a cover shot. I hope you have much success with your photography companies and I hope nothing but good things to come to your lovely family, Benny. Head over to Instagram and check out Benny's gallery, even hire him out for a photop-shoot. That will be the best money you ever spend on having your precious moments professionally caught and framed.

Benny Lims "Eiffel"

@bennylims Instagram

The name Agustina Soemarko should be one the world should know of by now. When you read her interview with Brilliance will you be motivated to go and peruse her Instagram gallery. Then you will know that it will be only a matter of time before this multi-talented mom is known the world over.

Agustina Soemarko Photographer, Model, Painter & Mom Part of the World: Indonesia Equipment:

One of the reasons I decided to interview Agustina is that I thought she was actress, Shu Qi, from the movie "The Transporter" opposite actor Jason Statham. I was wrong but I noticed that a few of her photos on Instagram were pretty good minimal shots, very delicate and pristine. I asked her for an interview and we conversed through email about her career and photography.

"I decided to buy my first DSLR and from there my hobby got a little serious. It started with taking pictures of my boy to landscape."

How did you get into photography?

I got into photography about 2 1/2 years ago. My interest in snapping pictures first started with the introduction of better camera phones. I would say having an Instagram account furthered my interest in taking pictures in the form of exploring angles, framing, and even editing with apps from the phone. When frustrated with results where the light is low, or tele needed, and certain manual settings needed for maximum results, I decided to buy my first DSLR and from there my hobby got a little serious. It started with taking pictures of my boy to landscape. I did landscape photography with natural light for a while before exploring studio and portable lighting shooting people. Since then I have participated in 1 exhibition with the second exhibition this month of April during the 4th-6th. I was also chosen for a joint Instagram exhibition held by Marsio Fine Art Gallery. And my first few serious portrait shoots ended up on the cover of a weekend edition of the Jakarta Post. It has been a very exciting adventure so far.

That is very impressive, and I have to congratulate you on the exhibit that you are in this month. Since we do these interviews via email, my questions are asked in advance, so some of my questions might be similar. And you have already talked about the subjects you shoot. What are some of your favorite subjects to photograph?

Landscape photography still holds a special place in my heart (my account for landscape is @seeandlove) although I am now experimenting shooting friends - both indoors and outdoors.

I have noticed that you have a few modeling poses on your Instagram page. Are you a model?

I am not a model. I am just a lover of art and respect the work of my creative photographer friends enough to be a subject for their artwork.

"I am very selective with whom I work with because in the end - it has to be something that is artful." I am very selective with whom I work with because in the end - it has to be something that is artful. Through these projects I get to understand more about lighting and camera shooting styles and gain experience too.

Yes. That is extremely important because art that has integrity goes a long way. How many cameras do you have? I have a few cameras but the most commonly used one would be my Nikon D800 and D7000.

How has Instagram impact your life? It has been wonderful. I have been inspired by many artful people and it feels great having my pictures appreciated and inspire people.

How long have you been painting? I have been painting since 2008. It started as a hobby when I was pregnant and I got a little more serious when I participated in a few exhibitions and started having order requests.

Oh wow! It is always great to hear success stories as yours, Agustina. I am happy to have met you via Instagram. Thank you so much for your time, and I hope you have much success with your painting as well as with your photography. It is no doubt that some of the people you meet on Instagram, in person or virtually, are quite interesting. The worlds that people come from also add to the content of their character. But when you meet a mom on Instagram, one facet that reigns true and is echoed in many other moms as well are that their children and families are the center of their universe, and Agustina says it best when she made mention:

"I would still stress photography and painting as my serious hobbies rather than an occupation :) and that my first and foremost occupation is a full time mother to Isaac."

Agustina Soemarko

"At The Beach With My Date" @sweetaugust - Instagram

The UK is one of the world's most exciting countries to visit. Since the Instagram explosion, traveling to and capturing the scenes of the ambiance is on the bucket lists of many. If you cannot travel to the UK, you can rely on Ash Lewis' Instagram gallery as a substitute. He is the Rick Steves of Instagram.

Ashley Lewis AKA @ash:

Advertising & Portrait Photographer, Graphic Designer, Art Director Part of the World: London, UK Equipment: Canon 5D MKlll & iPhone 4S

When visiting Ashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Instagram gallery you will notice some of the most extraordinary landmarks and architecture in London. He has an eye for symmetry and tunnels. Check out his galleries on Instagram and on Tumblr.

"I can’t remember far enough back to a time when I didn’t have an experimental interest in photography. My first big trip was to the USA when I was about 11." Tell us a little bit about yourself Ash. Where are you from?

Twenty-four year old, born in Surrey, England. I do graphic design and art direction 9-5, filling the gaps around work - I’m the creative director of a clothing brand and I freelance as a commercial, advertising and portrait photographer.

That's quite an impressive background. How did you get into photography? I don’t remember! Honestly, I can’t remember far enough back to a time when I didn’t have an experimental interest in photography. My first big trip was to the USA when I was about 11. I had access to a Digital camera and that’s probably where it all started for me. Since then, I’ve always taken photos on whatever I’ve had. It’s only in the last 2 years that I’ve gotten serious.

Very nice! We have similar starting ages in taking pictures. I think I was 10 or 11 years old which leads me to my next question. Where do you get your motivation in photography?

I’m always subconsciously thinking about what’s next, as well as scoping out spots, generating concepts, researching locations and lurking on Pinterest. Some days I’ll be sitting on a train, driving in my car or at my mac and I’ll think ‘Hey! I should go here, and do this…’ and then a week later I’m doing exactly that. It’s those ideas and wanting to execute those that motivates me. Speaking on "scoping out spots", there is a giant eyeball sculpture in Dallas that is my next subject. How many cameras do you have?

Three. Any ideas when the iPhone 6 is coming out? I currently own an iPhone 4S that’s falling to bits, I shoot the majority of my Instagram posts on it and we’ve been on a few International adventures together. - I also just acquired a Canon 5D MKIII and a backup. I use those for my commercial work, and having a group of friends where everyone seems to be getting married keeps me busy, most of my friends want me to shoot their weddings!

"Only recently have stock libraries started to take a serious interest in mobile photography." About an iPhone 6, I have read rumors of a September 2014 release date. But who knows. My next question is on I ask people often: Where do you see mobile photography in the future?

Right now, who knows?! Over the last few years, mobile photography has exploded. Only recently have stock libraries started to take a serious interest in mobile photography. In the future, I think the lines will become blurred between traditional and mobile photography. Personally, I like the divide, I would never consider taking images from my camera to my iPhone, edit and send back to my mac and vice versa, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not prepared to mix yet and neither is my hardware. In the future this could be exactly what happens. Mobile photography is definitely exciting and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thrilled to be a part of it.

It is always refreshing to stumble across the work of photographers on Instagram like Ash. His approach and outlook with the camera are inspiring and trendsetting. I expect to hear big things from this guy. Who knows, one day, he will make it big in the world as a great photographer and you can say that you read an interview about him first in a budding digital zine on Instagram. Check out his Instagram gallery if you haven't already. You won't be disappointed.

Ash Lewis "Spaceship"

@ash - Instagram

On the following pages are 10 extraordinary photos by 10 brilliant photographers that have mastered the art of minimal photography...

John Cobalt @jcobalt - Instagram

Sandra Ahn Mode "London Eye"

@sandraahnmode - Instagram

Jarad "White on White" @j_zza - Instagram

Tim McCaffrey @8layers - Instagram

Rachell Acour

"meeting my long-lost friend, vitamin D" @rachellacour - Instagram

Arash "The Big Show" @arashasd - Instagram

Pchyburrs "Apple" @pchyburrs - Instagram

Brett Shipp "Best door in Dallas...hands down" @brettshipp8 - Instagram

Nicholas

"Cleaning Crew"

@papagiannakos - Instagram

Lisa

"No, it's slander, whose edge is sharper than the sword...[Shakespeare]" @soplateau - Instagram

Filmmaker Sam Ciurdar won a contest when he filmed his movie, "The Passing", on his iPhone. And still he found time to include in his Instagram repertoire a few minimal shots. Now, that's talent!

Sam Ciurdar

Photographer & Filmmaker Part of the World: SoCal Equipment: iPhone 5S Remember the name Sam Ciurdar. The director of the movie "The Passing", a 2013 HollyShorts / Indi Film Competition first place winner, discusses his career as a filmmaker and photographer in an interview with Brilliance and how his wife, Amanda, is the motivation in allot of his photography. We came away with an interview that I think will inspire future filmmakers and photographers worldwide.

"When I was a young kid, I used to steal my dads camera and go around filming things. Over time family used to ask me to film our family events to eventually making short films." Good day Sam! I have looked through your gallery and I must say that you have many impressive photos! I noticed the photo of the 4th edition of "Back to the Future." Very nice! Was that edition a gift? Were you a film director or a treatment writer? Thank you so much for the kind words. I try to shoot what I find fascinating, or things that my eye finds interesting - from there, I can only hope others like what I can capture in a snap! About the "Back to the Future" script, I assume that is what you are referring to?

Yes! Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a huge "Back to the Future" fan. It’s the movie that has given that little fire in my soul to pursue the idea of film. I found that script online and printed it myself so I can see how this film has evolved to what it is today! I was not a director on anything with Back to the Future, one can only dream! I was too young. The first movie was released the same year I was born! HAHA!

Spoken like a true "Back to the Future" aficionado. My bad. I thought it was a hard to find edition and that it was a gift. I noticed you

added cinematographer in your profile section. When did you decide to get into film? I do not do much cinematography. I try not to. My passion is directing, and even though I do cinematography on a number of my projects - that really comes down to budget. Either no one is able to do it, or there is no money for one. I work a lot with my friend William Kil who is also my editor. More often than not, he usually runs the camera for me too. It’s so much easier when you have different people in various roles, that way everyone can focus on their one task. If one person does too much, their other areas lack and do not get the 100% attention it deserves. And to be honest, I don’t know what made me want to actually “decide” to get into film. I still have a lot of work to do to achieve what I want to achieve - but I don’t think I ever “decided”, its just one of those things that always resinated inside me. When I was a young kid, I used to steal my dads camera and go around filming things. Over time family used to ask me to film our family events to eventually making short films. It’s just one of those things that has kept growing inside of me. It’s more than just passion, it’s a calling. I know it’s what I’m suppose to do.

"We purposely ended it the way we did, leaving it as a cliff hanger. This would almost be a prequel to a movie, or tv show if we ever wanted to pursue it in the future. But as of now, there will be no part 2!"

"I ended up having to shoot it all on my personal phone. Our crew was just me, two actors, and a guy holding the boom mic for the interior scenes. For the exteriors, it was just me and Josh - my wife was there also for the “adventure”" "I watched your film "The Passing" and thoroughly enjoyed it and found it quite suspenseful and mysterious. It is amazing that you shot it all on an iPhone. How did "The Passing" come about, and will there be a part 2?" Thank you! It’s definitely a challenge to shoot a short film on an iPhone, and I would definitely not recommend it! It’s tough! They are not designed to have full control over it - everything is automatic, from the exposure to the focus. Luckily there are third party apps out there that will help you manipulate those features. The film came about when my good friend, Joshua Collins, and I were trying to find our next project. He acts in pretty much all my films, he’s that awesome! However, he was going through a little rough patch during this time. He found this online competition in which you have to tell a short film (3 minutes or less) on an iPhone. So we decided this was what we will film. We didn’t have a lot of time, so I ended up having to shoot it all on my personal phone. Our crew was just me, two actors, and a guy holding the boom mic for the interior scenes. For the exteriors, it was just me and Josh - my wife was there also for the “adventure” lol. We purposely ended it the way we did, leaving it as a cliff hanger. This would almost be a prequel to a movie, or tv show if we ever wanted to pursue it in the future. But as of now, there will be no part 2!

Oh, well, perhaps youguys might change your minds because I can see the ending in many different scenarios. Also to add in, I really like how you and your wife are a team on more than one front, such as photography. Is she also involved with your filmmaking career? No. She does it for the fun of it. It’s funny, ever since we’ve been married she has gotten really good at iPhoneography - I believe that’s the term! All her photos are taken on her phone. She always claims that she’s not the creative type, but she has discovered the fun of photography. I’d love to get her in using DSLRs, but one step at a time! We simply like to go on adventures together, explore as much as we can during this life time we have and while doing so, snap some photos along the way! She’s more talented than she gives herself credit for.

"I’m just drawn to it! And the location we did find on a whim. My wife and I were traveling the Joshua Tree area"

I really like how you and your wife are a team on more than one front, such as photography. Is she also involved with your filmmaking career? No. She does it for the fun of it. It’s funny, ever since we’ve been married she has gotten really good at iPhoneography - I believe that’s the term! All her photos are taken on her phone. She always claims that she’s not the creative type, but she has discovered the fun of photography. I’d love to get her in using DSLRs, but one step at a time! We simply like to go on adventures together, explore as much as we can during this life time we have - and while doing so, snap some photos along the way! She’s more talented than she gives herself credit for.

The main reason for requesting an interview came from a single photo. This is one of the most awesome minimal photos I have seen on Instagram and Brilliance is a minimal advocate. It makes you wonder what is on her mind. I have noticed many photographers that use poses like this. Were you experimenting and stumbled into this composition? How did you arrive at this setting? Every photo is an experiment - but one those are one of my favorite types of shots. I love having a subject in frame to mainly show scale. To show how big or small something is. I tend to do this shot more often than not, but it’s not something I think about. I’m just drawn to it! And the location we did find on a whim. My wife and I were traveling the Joshua Tree area one weekend and I saw someone post something from a place called “Salton Sea” - so I wanted to check it out!"

Sam and his wife, Amanda, are a dynamic duo that feature different locations of Southern California in all of its glory in their Instagram galleries. Check out their styles: he - @samciurdar and she - @amandaseeyoudarrr

Sam Ciurdar Salton Sea

@sam_ciurdar - Instagram

Cheryl Flett has definitely captured her passion for photography in many strikingly beautiful and equally powerful photos that she shares with the world through her Instagram gallery.

Cheryl Flett

Photographer Part of the World: East Coast Australia Equipment: Canon 550D

I met Cheryl on an Instagram page that I used to run that featured virtual rooms, in various homes, apartments and businesses. The object was to locate in your gallery a photo you think might best fit that room. It took allot of work on my part because where once was a painting on a wall was edited out as a white square. This was fun and Cheryl always seemed to pick photos that made great wall pieces - which was one of the reasons that I wanted interview her. The other reason for this interview, and you will see on the following pages, is how talented this woman really is and how impeccable is her photography.

"I knew I loved photography and would take the occasional photo, but with nowhere to showcase the photos, they were only ever seen by family and friends." Cheryl, how did you get into Photography?

I've made some amazing friends along the way, Instagram is like that.

As a teenager Dad was always taking photos and I started to take family shots with a little Kodak camera. As the years went by I started to capture scenery. My first "real"camera was a Fuji DSLR in my twenties.

Yes. I agree. There are some people you meet on Instagram, through your photography, that you will always remember. Do you have a camera? If so, how many cameras do you own?

I was taught by my Dad. For me, it all began in Monohans, Texas (Sandhills State Park) When did Instagram begin playing a role with your photography?

Instagram was a major turning point for me in my photography. I really started to take notice of other Photographer's styles. My general interest turned into a real passion. I became really curious about how people actually created their images. Prior to Instagram, I knew I loved photography and would take the occasional photo, but with nowhere to showcase the photos, they were only ever seen by family and friends. Instagram gave me the courage to "publicly" show my photos and to take my photography to the next level. Instagram has boosted my confidence to enable me to just recently start setting up my own photography business.

I have a Canon 550D. My first digital camera came as a birthday present in 2012 with the Canon 18-200m lens. I recently acquired a couple of new lens - Canon 50mm F/1.8 and a Canon Macro 60mm F/ 2.8. Dreaming of upgrading of course!

I'm still learning about cameras and when I see a popular brand name and a set of numbers following tells me that must be some equipment. What are some of your favorite subjects to shoot?

Capturing people with personality, and any kind of nature.

Well, you do that quite powerfully. Thank you so much for the interview Cheryl. Your journey in becoming what I consider a brilliant photographer is inspirational and heartwarming. I miss our days at jj_virtualframing. That was a blast. If you are looking for some great photos head on over to @cheryl50' gallery on Instagram. That she Cheryl has opened a photography business is no surprise when you peruse her gallery.

Cheryl Flett "In The Calm" @cheryl50 - Instagram

Here is an exciting photographer that I consider the Hitchcock of Instagram. Fran Garcia raises the bar on the level of suspense captured in a single photograph. I wouldn't be surprised that if someone very famous is keeping tabs on this guy's Instagram gallery.

Fran Garcia

Mobile Photographer, Father, Husband, Model & Actor Part of the World: Spain Equipment: iPhone

I, virtually, work alongside Fran Garcia aka @instafraner as an editor for Josh Johnson (Create to Connect team) on Instagram. I started noticing Fran's work when he would enter some of his photos in the daily themed forums and would actually win solo features - which is good to be selected because that meant that your photo was chosen from among 5,000-10,000 photos. You're pretty good when you can score a feature like that!

"You don’t always find that subject passing by, so you have to build up the picture with what you have in hand at that moment." How long have you been a photographer? I don’t consider myself strictly a photographer. I use to say that I’m just a guy with a mobile phone. In any case, I could say that the photography bug started a year ago.

How did you get started or became interested in photography? It began since the first moment I downloaded the Instagram app. I had never been interested in photography until then. I used to take pictures at my kids birthday parties or any other celebrations, beautiful landscapes when traveling with my wife… Never thought about creating something particularly creative or with artistic pretensions. Besides of that, I don’t have any photography knowledge (though I’d love to someday), and that’s maybe the reason why I take the kind of pictures I take. In short, I don’t really worry about basic photography concepts as composition, rule of thirds, depth… though within the time I’ve come to be aware of their importance.

I can relate when you make mention of "rule of thirds" and "composition" all of which I never truly understood until coming to Instagram. I've noticed that many of your Instagram posts have an adventurous-007-look about them. Are you also an actor? LOL. I’m not and I’ve never been. My presence in the pictures I take is the product of an evolution in my photography style and a certain kind of philosophy. I think that a photographer should be someone who both presses the click on the camera, directs and edits the scene captured. On the other hand, and maybe this is the most important part, I go shooting alone most of the times. So, when I find a worth shooting scene I always try to put a subject on it in order to enhance the final result, giving the picture some perspective, depth or a certain mood or feeling. You don’t always find that subject passing by, so you have to build up the picture with what you have in hand at that moment. In this case, I have no choice but being my own model and using a self-timer on my mobile phone. And well… Within the time you learn to pose and place yourself on the desired spot of the scene. The 007 and Tarantino part? Well… I guess that being a lawyer helps. I use to wear a suit because of my job. LOL.

It works well and your growth is becoming more apparent. What is your motivation for the theme that most of your photos portray?

I love movement and action. I once started shooting these kind of images and they ended becoming a kind of seal or style. I didn't invent this but I must say that I’ve become a huge fan of running or walking subjects shots.

I think you should team up with Sam Ciurdar. How has mobile photography affected your photography career?

I have no records as a DSLR photographer, so I can only speak about mobile. Mobile phones have brought democracy to the world of photography. Nowadays, anyone with a mobile can dare to take pictures with more or less success thanks to its immediacy and editing possibilities. I never thought about becoming a real photographer. That’s a big word for me. I’ve never owned more cameras than my iPhone, though I would love to take some photography lessons and buy a reflex someday. Anyway, becoming a DSLR user is something that in a certain way scares me, as I’ve always thought that I might lose freshness if I let my phone aside.

Folks, I hope that when you get an opened window that you take some time to gander at Mr. Garcia's work. He works really hard at bringing his audience that one-of-a-kind shot to leave a lasting impression on the mind. I have seen all of Alfred Hitchcock's movies: I even took a college summer course on Hitchcock. And there is one movie, North By Northwest, that has a scene in it that Fran captured quite well. See if you can figure out which shot mimics that movie. Thanks for the interview Fran.

Fran Garcia "Cursed"

@instafraner - Instagram

*One of 9 winners of the "Storytellers Exhibit" Polaroid Fotobar Museum, Las Vegas

The many faces of Colin Roberts is my take-away each time I visit his Instagram gallery. Besides his minimal photos are photos of adventure, mystery, theme participations, museum-like quality masterpieces and comedy. Many of these shots also involve his family. Signs of a fun Dad with a sense of humor and a broad imagination.

Colin Roberts

Instagram: @thegoodly Photographer, Husband & Dad Part of the World: Berkshire, United Kingdom Equipment: Canon 7D & iPhone 5S

Tell us a little bit about yourself. What part of the world do you and your family live?

I live in a rural location just outside Reading Berkshire, UK I have always wanted to live in the UK. When I was a teenager, I remember wanting to move across the pond after hearing the accent and how the people pronounced words. I thought it was cool and still dream of doing so some 38 years later. What kind of equipment are you shooting with these days Colin?

Currently I use a Canon 7D body with a canon 18-200mm, a Canon 17-40mm, a Canon 50mm and a Sigma 105mm macro. Also an iPhone 5S.

That sounds like some serious equipment! I wondered if you were using an iPhone and now I know on some shot you were. How long have you been shooting? I got my first DSLR at around age 20, I'm now approaching 34. However I did shoot a little as part of a media college course at age 16.

Thats a good age to start with photography because in your teen years there is so much to see and at perspectives vastly abundant everywhere you look. Are you a professional photographer?

I'm not a professional, by that, I mean it's not a day job, but I do earn money from it. I have taken on weddings and portrait sessions as well as selling images on various stock websites.

Well from what I have seen on your Instagram and on your website, you have a very promising and already prosperous future in photography career, and in action photography and film. How long have you been on Instagram?

I've been on Instagram since January of 2012. However, I started only using it for personnel use, i.e., photos of family etc... In June 2012 I realized Instagram's potential and recognized its growth so I deleted all my old photos and started uploading my photography.

I did something similar. I started out with my first Instagram account posting photos of family and friends and digital artwork. Then I started noticing how people were capturing and shooting and setting up scenes. Many photographers on Instagram just blew me away with simple minimal compositions. I must admit that even though I had heard of the genre "minimal" I did not know what the heck it was. I saw some of my first minimal shots on Instagram and became an instant fan. Thank you for the interview, Colin. I really like how your wife plays an integral part in your adventurousjungle-like-fight-club shots. She seems to have a great sense of humor. And those shots of your boys and that duct tape. Hilariously priceless. Folks if you haven't already, head over to Colin Roberts' Instagram gallery @thegoodly. I wouldn't be surprised if Tarrintino or Speilberg calls this guy up!

Colin Roberts @thegoodly - Instagram

Craig Reay captures the great outdoors and rocky terrains in his Instagram gallery. If that describes your taste then you're gonna love his composition.

Craig Reay

Photographer, Gamer, Sports Fan, Nature Enthusist Part of World: Newcastle, England Equipment: iPhone 4S & Nikon D5000 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera - AF-S DX 18-55mm and 55-200mm lenses

Craig Reay

"Minimal" (at Museum) @craigreay - Instagram

A person that has been mastering minimal photography on Instagram is a guy named Martin Cooke. If you've never seen any of his work then you are missing out on an epic experience.

Martin Cooke

Photographer Part of the World: United Kingdom Equipment: 35mm & iPhone

One of the most impressive minimal photographers on Instagram is Martin Cooke. I learned about Martin from the online merchant Twenty20 (formally Instacanvas). I instantly realized that I needed to brush up on my minimal attempts. So, I knew that he would be one person that I would interview to find out all about his minimal setting, composition and inspiration behind the shots he produced because how he captures an ordinary object is absolutely brilliant!

"I've had some extremely amazing, and sometimes unexpected comments from some equally amazing IGers and I don't think I could single out a comment I've had, but 'master of minimal' 'unique' and 'original' are a few that come to mind." When did you become interested in minimal photography? It was about six months ago when I joined Instagram. I've always had a deep appreciation for photography, abstract art, patterns, textures, geometry etc. and pushing my passion for minimal has allowed me to combine each of these elements to create, hopefully, unique and interesting shots.

How long have you been a photographer? I've dabbled in the past but it wasn't until I joined Instagram, six months ago, that I began to take it seriously. Discovering so many creative artists and photographers has influenced me in a big way.

Are you a professional photographer? No, a keen amateur at best. I take all my shots with my trusty iPhone 4S. I aim to upgrade to my first DSLR later this year, in the hope of taking my shots to the next level.

Well I can already see your career taking off with a DSLR. How has mobile photography impacted your life?

As I only shoot on my mobile phone it's had a huge impact on the way I take shots and the how I edit my shots in post. Having all the tools I need to create the minimal I do on my mobile is a huge convenience. This allows me to go from idea to shot to edit and then upload in no time at all; sometimes in a matter of minutes.

What is the most unexpected comment you've received with regards to your minimal shots, if you can remember? I've had some extremely amazing, and sometimes unexpected comments from some equally amazing IGers and I don't think I could single out a comment I've had, but 'master of minimal' 'unique' and 'original' are a few that come to mind. The comments I've had have definitely inspired me to create, continue to create and also push my love of minimal and photography.

Well it will interesting to see what your first shot is with your first DSLR. I can hardly wait for that post. Thank you for the interview Marti. I know that the people following your Instagram gallery will be in for a treat!

Martin Cooke Green

@martin_cooke - Instagram

I have featured photos by Katherine for the past few years over at the JJ community ran by Josh Johnson. What I like most about her work is her ability at maintaining a consistent minimal flow in her Instagram gallery.

Katherine Q Photographer & Mom Part of the World: Philippines Equipment: Nikon D80, iPhone 4 & 5

Firstly, I would like to say CONGRATULATIONS on being one of the winners in the Polaroid Fotobar Storytellers' exhibit? Was it 9 winners?

Thanks for your congrats! Yes, there are 9 Instant Storytellers and it's a thrill to be one of them.

That is so awesome! How long have you had an Instagram account? I just realized it's been 3 years this month! I downloaded the app on April 2011 and my life was changed ever since. At first, I wasn't sure what to use Instagram for. But as I went along, I discovered I love sharing photos that are simple yet colorful and minimal in style.

Oh wow! Well, congratulations on having your account for as long as you have Kat! How has posting your work on Instagram affected your photography and the way you see the world today?

Posting on Instagram has developed my deep love for minimalism. I have always believed that there is beauty in the ordinary and one just needs to take a closer look at things that we usually take for granted. It's amazing that Instagram came along and gave me and millions of other people a venue to share our life philosophy through photography.

Yes. I like what you said about "the beauty in the ordinary". That's powerful. Where did your passion for minimal photography come from? How did that happen? I think it may have come from my love for simplicity. I don't like clutter, be it in the way I dress or decorate my home, so I guess that also translates into the kind of photos I make/take.

That's very interesting, and has allot to say about a cluttered mind vs an uncluttered mind. How many cameras do you have and shoot with? I have a NikonD80 which I always bring to travels and to my daughter's activities. But for photos that I post on Instagram, almost all of it are taken with either my iPhone4 or my husband's iPhone5.

What changes have you noticed Instagram has had on the world? A lot! Instagram is very instrumental in making people realize that their lives could be an inspiration to someone. I think the presence of Instagram has challenged a lot of people's creativity and encouraged their appreciation of one another's point of view. Personally, Instagram to me is not just an app. Every time I click on that IG logo, I enter a community where I feel I belong in and I believe it is the same for the other Instagramers out there.

Once again, Kat, I would like to say congratulations and thank you for this interview. I hope more and more people discover your work on Instagram because it is absolutely brilliant!

Katherine Q

Winner in Polaroid's Storytellers Exhibit Las Vegas @mskatherineq Instagram

I consider Landon Jacquinot an accidental minimalist. He's rather modest and nonchalant about his photography but if you pay closer attention you'll see a brilliant photographer in the making.

Landon Jacquinot Photographer, Soccer player and Track runner Place in the world: Northeast Colorado Equipment: 35mm

To me, it seems as if it will helps photography grow as a medium and give starting photographers a stepping stool to photography. Hello Landon. And, thank you for this email interview. My first question is: How long have you been into photography? I started doing photography about 2 years ago.

What got you into photography? The main reason I got into photography is that my friend signed up for a class. He invited me to take it too! I've been doing photography ever since.

That's pretty cool. How has Instagram been an influence in your life? Instagram hasn't had the biggest impact on my life. I just use it to share the pictures I take with others.

Well, I've interviewed many people about this question and I get many different kinds of answers and even though everyone may not be affected in the same way, it makes me wonder: Where do you see mobile photography and Instagram going in the future? Mobile photography and Instagram has revolutionized photography and how photos are shared. To me, it seems as if it will helps photography grow as a medium and give starting photographers a stepping stool to photography. Overall Instagram and mobile photography seem like it will enhance the medium.

Thank you for your honesty, Landon. I hope to see more of your photos in the future because you have an eye for details. Thanks again sir! Check out Landon's Instagram site and leave some encouraging comments to let him know what you think about his photography. Great potential folks.

Landon Jacquinot "Zoom in, tune out" @_jacquin_ - Instagram

Brilliance: Elements of Minimal Copyright ÂŠ 2014 by All names indicated on each photo presented are the owners. My name is Michael Bryant Mode. I have compiled this magazine as a service with no charge for the photographers indicted therein the pages of this magazine. Acknowledgment I acknowledge that I do not own any of the photos within this magazine and have consent from each photographer to compile such magazine by the name of Brilliance. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from All names indicated on each photo presented are the owners. I take no ownership in any photo except where my name (Michael Bryant) is indicated. Every photo inside this magazine is claimed by the names of each photographer named as its owner. Powered By Bookemon. www.bookemon.com