Scholarship Focus – Christian Espinoza
This is the first in a series of posts focussing on each member of the Kingsize Scholarship.
My technical skills improved hugely over the 12 week Kingsize Scholarship. I learned how to develop my own lighting diagrams, and after extensive tests in studio, I got to see how each modifier shaped light in its own ways, whether on skin or other textures. I also enhanced my own retouching skills using Photoshop, by research and practice through every assignment. Progressively across the 12 weeks, I had transformed the nature of my work and the path I would take would be a 180 from where I started.
I was also exposed to a lot of new influences. Luke mentioned the Helsinki School early on, and that was a treasure trove of inspiration. Others in the class mentioned Creative Live videos, with I am now hooked on. Practinioners which made an impact on me were Steve Pyke, Miles Aldridge, Trent Parke, Inez and Vinoodh, Richard Mosse, Nadav Kander, Taryn Simon, and Broomberg and Chanarin (to name a few of the best).
A big highlight of the scholarship program was the focus on business, having several professionals talk to us about their approach to the business of photography. Licensing and copyright came up a lot, for both video and stills work. My favourite was portfolio advice from Christina Force, and the importance of having a tight book.
“Being attached to a photo means nothing!” was a great piece of advice which Christina Force shared when she met with the class for a portfolio session. It makes sense, just because you love a photo maybe for the memories you associate with it, doesn’t make it worthy to be in your portfolio. Bottom line, if it’s not strong or it doesn’t fit, don’t show it.
 As a class we all produced quite different work, so it was great to have shared equally different resources of inspiration and even technical advice. The Kingsize team were always friendly and encouraging so it made it very easy to come in and talk shop, try new things in studio, and just keep learning by doing.
 As a result of my involvement with the Kingsize Scholarship, I recently shot the hero stills for a new NZ film production.
My short term plan is to produce a new personal body of new work, and flaunt it. Long term, build up a list of clients and get busy making work that I want to make. The scholarship course revived my interest in photography and gave me a much needed kick, I am really grateful.
 Click above to watch Christian’s short documentary.
