Sophie

Q: What inspired you to move to New York and pursue photography? 


A: When I was at Queen’s, I found myself creatively frustrated. When you’re in your late teens and early twenties, you’re at a point where you are trying to figure out the kind of life you want to live. I spent a lot of time looking at magazines and online content, inspired by shoots and the opportunities photography could create. I had studied photography in high school and always loved it, but I never really considered it as a full-time career … that is until I found myself shooting a different headshot, band, or fashion shoot every weekend in Kingston.

Once I decided on fashion photography, New York seemed the natural choice. The United States is definitely the land of opportunity, but it’s also the land of competition, especially in New York City. What makes New York stand out to me is that the opportunities are bigger and better than anywhere else. I’ve shot people and brands I’ve never thought possible, simply because New York is the place to be.

Q: What’s your favourite part about Fashion Week? 


A: My favourite part about Fashion Week is the pace. Everything moves at lightning speed; you may only have 30 seconds to “get the shot.” You are forced to be extremely confidant and technically comfortable. There’s no room for error. One of my favourite Fashion Week experiences occurred Fall SS18. I was in a group of photographers who had access to the secret Oscar de la Renta show. We were all busy snapping streetstyle shots when all of a sudden a Cadillac Escalade pulls up and out steps Nicki Minaj, strutting her way into the show.

Q: How does the fashion scene in New York compare to that of Toronto? 


A: I think the streetstyle scenes are very similar—there are cool people pushing the boundaries of dress everywhere. But when it comes to New York Fashion Week, nothing else compares. All of your favorite bloggers, stylists, photographers, and celebrities flock to New York. The stakes are so high because you never know who you’re going to see! Just yesterday I shot Whoopi Goldberg strolling out to the Chromat Show!

Q: How did your time with MUSE help you grow as an artist and photographer? 


A: My time with MUSE was honestly the start of it all. Working as Head Photographer with the support of the most incredible creative team was essential for my growth as a photographer. It was through MUSE that I learned about the process of editorial shoots and how this process leads to great shots. My portfolio that I applied to Parsons with was largely made up of shoots that I did for MUSE. I actually brought in the magazines to my interview!

Q: What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received as a photographer?

A: The most valuable advice I’ve received as a photographer (and as a person) is not to measure your worth on how busy you are or how busy others seem to be. Your worth is not determined by your productivity.

http://www.sophiebarkham.com/

Interview By Nick Scott