Wayne Simpson is a photographer I have admired, followed and now emulate. Plain and simple, Wayne’s photography speaks to me like few others. In some ways it is difficult for me to admit but if ever there was a man crush photography wise… well…Wayne is it for me.
Wayne is an award winning Canadian photographer from Elora Ontario. While his early career was more landscaped based in nature, Wayne has evolved into one of North America’s best portrait photographers. His images are dark, moody and grab your attention. But like others he has questioned if he was on the right path…
So how does creative courage enter Wayne’s world? Wayne has a unique approach to his portrait work that involves in most cases seeking out diverse subjects that he see’s in everyday life. He is drawn to faces that tell a story. These people may be seen by normal society as weird or quirky but it doesn’t stop Wayne from befriending these people when others might shy away.. The courage comes from forcing himself to get to know his subjects as best he can so he can best capture the true essence of the individual. His images are a story all to themselves and can only be accomplished by the unique bond he creates with the people he meets and photographs. Wayne self admits that he has not always “nailed it” on the first portrait/visit and has doubled back on most of his subjects to gain more truth…that takes courage.
Wayne is currently working on a book that will highlight the incredible series of images he has captured so far as well as a written component to further advance the story his images create.
In my opinion photographically, Wayne is a true technician. His problem solving skills are borne out of his admiration of the likes of Joel Grimes and Joe McNally. He is a quiet man at first glance but as you get to know him his genuine nature becomes more and more apparent. He has traits very similar to others I have discussed here…focused, transparent and a true educator.
I have attended a handful of Wayne’s workshops and have always walked away learning something new, and feeling like I have improved as a photographer because of the experience.
Wayne has a quiet confidence that I feel is a result of his ability to be courageous creatively. It rubs off on you. Without courage, Wayne would not be able to create at the level he does and without knowing it, he passes that on to any one that truly is watching him create.
To best get a sense of Wayne and his photography please watch the short film that Kyle McDougall (who I have featured here previously) has made about Wayne entitled “Legacy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTZk3pK0Y5c
Follow his Wayne’s work here : https://www.waynesimpsonphotography.com/index
Next week … Elena Bazini, award winning wedding photographer.