Edge of the Void | Ben Ward
Edge of the Void
Ben Ward
Ben Ward is a 23-year-old photographer/videographer living in Fort Collins, Colorado. He studied videojournalism at Colorado State University and now works as a freelancer - balancing documentary projects and personal projects with his work.
What camera(s) do you prefer to use?
It really depends on what I’m photographing - I have about 8 cameras that I use interchangeably (most are cheap thrift store purchases). My favorites are my Canon 6d, Minolta X700, and my Bronica ETRSi. For video, I shoot everything on a Sony A7sii or a6500.
What is your greatest source of inspiration?
My biggest source of inspiration is the medium of film. Films like No Country For Old Men, Paris, Texas, and Drive are some of my favorites. Roger Deakins is also a huge inspiration for me. The way he consistently uses color and light in his cinematography is incredible and is always in the back of my mind when I’m shooting.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
Someone on the internet once said my photos have an edge-of-the-void vibe. I don’t exactly know what that means, but I like it.
What is the most significant project you have worked on? Where did you find inspiration to pursue it?
I went to India last summer with a few other great documentary videographers to work on a film that will hopefully be released this summer. In India, I found that inspiration was all around me - everything is so beautiful and colorful and there are stories begging to be told everywhere you go.
Are there any photography projects you are currently pursuing or would like to pursue?
In the future I’d like to pursue some long-term documentary photo stories within the U.S. Documentary work is my main passion, and I think long-term projects can be incredibly impactful.
What general process do you undergo to produce your work?
Lately, I’ve been trying to be more intentional with my work. This means I’ve been shooting a lot less often, and when I do shoot, it’s a lot more effort than I’m used to. I’ll usually have some ideas written down, and I’ll take screenshots from movies or TV shows that inspire me - and bring these ideas with me to the location I’m shooting at. I usually shoot at night, so I’ll bring some lights with me. Post-production is a big part of my process as well. Lightroom is where I spend most of my time for any given photoshoot if I’m shooting digital.
