Heart + Soul + Artist Feature

STELL Magazine chats with Heart + Soul's fashion photographer Leah Perry after wrapping the 'Hotel California' shoot.

Marrying 70's bold glamour with modern Californian street style. "Hotel California" turned out to be a little saint and a little bit sinner. We talk to the photographer behind the shoot, Leah Perry about the inspiration behind the shoot, her humble beginnings in photography and her thoughts on the purpose of art.

First off, tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into photography

I grew up in the suburb of Boston. I've always loved art and picked up the camera as a teenager (I still have that camera). I loved the darkroom, photographing cats, and my best friends who also happened to do a little modeling.

At what point did you realise you wanted to make photography your career?

I went to Emory for undergrad, which is how I ended up in Atlanta. A teacher there told me about commercial photography. I decided that was the route I wanted to go, so I attended Portfolio Center to learn digital photography and the skills to make a living at it.

What do you love most about your job?

I love all the creative people I get to work with on almost a daily basis.

What's typically in your camera bag?

Canon 5D MIII with a couple lenses. I shot this project primarily with a Canon 85mm 1.2. Also always have a couple A clamps, some spun filter and gaff tape.

What was the inspiration behind 'Hotel California'?

I think I was particularly drawn to the Cali style trend because I had the pleasure of shooting out there this Spring. I love mixing street style with glam and 70's glam was the perfect compliment to casual California cool.

How did the creative team involved come about?

This shoot was a particular treat to put together because I've known everyone so long and so well. I met Sophia when she was only 13 and for one of her first shoots. She was impressive from the beginning; it is amazing that she is now in college! My friend Julia actually requested that she work with me next time I shoot with Sophia so when Sophia reached out to me to let me know she was in town, I let Julia know straight away. Saj is an amazing makeup artist and frequent collaborator. I knew she would be the perfect one to make the team complete. I work with Sophia because she has an amazing face and personality but it doesn't hurt that her mum always brings us something yummy she bakes (this shoot was banana bread!).

What is the purpose of art in your view?

Haha. That is a loaded question! I think there are as many purposes as there are forms. It can create beauty, or challenge a viewer to make a change, or see the world in a new way. I believe much of mine is an escape; a moment of whimsy or fantasy.

How do you spend your free time?

I like to read, dance, spend time with my husband and friends, and whenever posssible to travel.

If you could give a photography enthusiast one piece of advice, what would it be?

Do not worry so much about the gear. Gear is just tools. Although over the years, I have come to favour some tools over others, they are not what makes me a photographer. My ideas are much more important.

Leah Perry is a fashion and still life photographer based in Atlanta, Georgia. You can check out more work from Leah as well as our full roster of artists by visiting our website: Heart + Soul Roster.

Thanks y'all!