JON WILLIAMS . UPTOWN SAINT JOHN ARTIST OF THE WEEK . FEBRUARY 15-19

JON WILLIAMS is one of three Hemmings House Pictures still photography pros, where he is responsible for working with contracted clients to do event, advertising, and stock photos. Jon began his photographic career working as Mark Hemmings’ assistant, but made his way up to pro status quite quickly. Jon has a unique blend of fashion photography with a fine art twist, and always is quick to dive into new and old technologies

Some FUN with Jon...

Where were you born?
I was born in Saint John, and grew up in Quispamsis

Have you always been interested in photography?
I actually never had a specific interest in photography growing up, though I always enjoyed creating! Anything from music, painting, wood making and film making. But then one day Mark Hemmings hired me on a shoot as a photography assistant, And I was hooked.

Do you have any formal training?
I never went to school for photography. I just studied the old fashion way, and learned the craft of lighting and editing from some very talented mentors, and through studying photos from magazines. You will be surprised how much you learn when you actually soak up pictures from various magazines.

How long have you been with Hemmings House?
I have worked with Hemmings House Pictures for about 2 years now.

What do you like best about uptown Saint John?
The warmth of the city, hands down! It is extremely welcoming and inviting. Like no other place in the world! And no place I would rather be.

What is the most unique/interesting photo you’ve captured or experience you’ve had while photographing?
There is one that I took a while back of this elderly man walking through king square on his walker. He is hunched over and looks quite sad. In the background there are 2 children in Sunday dresses that are pure white and look to be the classic 30’s and have a very angelic glow to them the way the sun is hitting them. Whenever I look at that photo it inspires me.

What do you like best to photograph? …People, animals, abstract, etc…if there is a preference.
People are my favorite subject. I like the ability to control a subject, to direct the subject.

Where is the most interesting place you’ve ever been?
Everyplace has its perks I guess, or I haven’t visited anyplace interesting enough to answer this question.

Do you have any pets?
I have 2 cats, Mimi who is almost 2 and Yuyu who is just a kitten.

Whom are you photography rolemodels?
I feel like I have a split personality when it comes to my own personal work. And so with that being said I have several strong influences when it comes to photography. My style comes from a mixture of David Lachapelle and Mark Hemmings, but a lot of my fine art ideas comes from the little things my girlfriend Ashley Reardon says or does.

What do you like to eat for breakfast?
I usually skip breakfast cause I use the snooze button a lot in the morning. Though if I have time I love fresh fruit and yogurt.


Who is your favorite musician?
Trent Reznor, Kurt Cobain. Can’t decide which one is a greater influence, but right now it leans to Trent.

What is your favorite drink?
Eggnog. There is no better drink!

Spring? Summer? Winter? Fall?
I love life, not periods or seasons.

Can you play a musical instrument?
I have been playing guitar since I was ten, then moved to Piano and Synths.

What is your favorite hangout uptown?
The HHP headquarters! It is such a cool place to hang out, jam with friends and create some great works of art, individually and as a team.

Describe yourself in three words.
Tall, dark and handsome…..just joking. The 3 words to best describe me are lucky, caring and determined.

What is your favorite thing to wear.
My staple item constantly changes, but right now it’s a toss up between sweater vest, and wildlife t-shirts. I know it is a weird mix, but I never combine them together.

For more on Jon and Hemmings House Pictures: http://bit.ly/7tOEF8