Photographer - Thomas Besemer
Coffee Shop - Sister Pie
City - Detroit, MI
Date - October 7, 2023
Q - What camera did you use for Cameras and Coffee?
A. - I shot with a 1950’s Rolleicord III, and I had a 1940’s Zeiss Super Ikonta 532/16 along for backup. Both medium format 6x6 cameras, and the lenses in both render in a similar fashion.
Q. How long have you been taking photos?
A. Off and on for 50 years. Almost all on film; I tried digital for a few years, but it wasn’t for me.
Q. Why did you start photography?
A. A friend had a darkroom set up in their garage; after one time of printing on photographic paper, I was hooked. I think there is something magical in the entire process of capturing an image and then processing it through to completion.
Q. What motivates you when it comes to photography?
A. What motivates me when it comes to photography is capturing memories and moments that otherwise just pass us by without a second thought. I feel as though I’m supposed to be the one who makes sure those memories are preserved so that we can always enjoy them. Whether that’s one week from then or ten years.
Q. Describe your photography style.
A. For street work, I try to have a photojournalistic style that contains mood and feeling, and for landscape work, I think I focus on what is happening with the light, and how that interplays with the composition. I feel style is something we all develop over time, and for me, I strive to get something that will be as strong 100 years from now as it is today.
Q. Explain your Instagram name.
A. I have never been involved in social media up until recently with IG, but at one point, I needed an IG account to look at something, so I created one with my actual name.
Q. What are your photo goals for the next year?
A. I grew up north of Detroit, but spent 30 years in the San Francisco Bay Area, so now that I am back in this area, I want to try and network with other local film photographers. I am a huge proponent of shooting with film for many reasons, one being to help keep film alive. So, other than continuously trying to improve as a photographer, I would like to work with and mentor others that are interested in film photography.
