The Yellow Coat
Photographer: Ben Hollingbery
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
I’m red / green colourblind, and I learned photographs by first learning the photography techniques favoured by black and white photography. Though i often suspect that my creative heritage plays a role in that too - I’m a fourth generation photographer and seem to have also inherited a mixture of skills from a wide variety of genres.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
The ongoing collaborations with my stylist friend Emma Kennedy whose dedication to perfection in every last detail of an outfit is actually starting to rub off on me,
Millie Sullivan - who has a creative streak a mile wide h has taught me to consider exploring elements of creativity that I may have ignored in the past and to put my own spin on it.
Gabriella Leonardi, who has taught me the value in always examining my work to see how I can continuously improve.
From my friend Freyja, i’ve learned to appreciate colours and textures all the more, after she told me that she has synaesthesia where each of her senses generate colours and I find the combination of our sensory worlds very interesting to think about.
From each of these collaborations, I have gained new insights into myself and the creative process.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
The project that has pushed my creative boundaries the most would probably be the long term project I have where I aim to combine fashion photography with elements of the old master painters, when combined with my composition style it makes people sit up and notice my work more.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
Ben: I honestly believe that what sets my work apart from others is that I try to build a rapport with my models and the other creatives I find myself working with. I approach my creative projects with the mindset that it’s not just my project, it’s everyone's, and over time, I have gained the trust and respect of many creatives who ordinarily wouldn’t choose to work with a male photographer.
Millie - As a makeup artist, my goal is to empower individuals to express themselves confidently and embrace their unique beauty. Makeup, to me, is a tool for self-expression, not for conforming to unrealistic standards. I’m passionate about challenging the one-size-fits-all approach to beauty and encouraging clients to explore new styles.
Freya: I love the art of modelling, being the compilation of all the work put into the shoot by the others, expressing their vision with elements of my own.
Emma: My journey in fashion has taken me through a range of areas & roles in the industry but styling has become so important in my professional growth. I’ve worked hard & gained special roles for high profile people, who I never dreamed I’d get the opportunity to work with. Alongside this, I’ve been so fortunate to meet other amazing creatives to collaborate with & take shoots from concept to reality, pushing imaginations & technical abilities. I’m excited for the future projects & things to come on this path.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you’ve set for your artistic career in the coming years?
Ben - Photography wise, my goal has always been to be accepted by a creative agency, maybe even shooting regularly for Vogue. Over the past year, i have discovered a talent for screenwriting, so i’m following both paths.
Millie - I’m excited by the rise of personalized beauty treatments and believe they’re the future of the industry. My focus is on creating tailored looks that celebrate individuality and foster confidence. Ultimately, I want everyone to feel comfortable experimenting with their appearance, free from societal pressures.
-
Photographer: Ben Hollingbery
Wardrobe Stylist/Creative Director: Emma Kennedy
Model: Freyja Chandler
Hair & Makeup: Millie Sullivan
-
Coat - All About Audrey Vintage
Dress - Vila
Shoes - Hush Puppies
Tights - H&M