A conversation with Monica Stevenson
In this episode of The Corner, Zena Wood sits down with long time FBC collaborator and extraordinary photographer Monica Stevenson to delve into the world of still life photography, capturing the essence of famous personalities, and the artistry behind product shots.
In this episode, recorded in White Plains, New York, Zena and Monica explore Monica’s journey from a college student majoring in math and chemistry to becoming a renowned still life photographer. Monica’s path was serendipitously altered by a physics of photography class, sparking her passion for the intricate science and art of photography.
Monica shares captivating stories from her career, including her time working with legendary fashion photographer Albert Watson and the serendipitous imperfections embraced by photographer Chris Callis. These experiences shaped her unique style, blending meticulous technical precision with the unexpected beauty found in spontaneous moments.
Listeners will be enthralled by Monica’s anecdotes of photographing iconic personalities like Keith Richards, Sigourney Weaver, and Grace Jones. She reveals the behind-the-scenes dynamics of high-profile photoshoots and the creative processes that drive her work.
The conversation also touches on Monica’s unique background, including her surprising stint in the ROTC program, which adds a fascinating layer to her creative journey. Despite the structured environment of her military training, Monica’s artistic spirit flourished, ultimately leading her to the creative freedom she found in New York’s vibrant art scene during the 80s.
Zena and Monica discuss the balance between planned shoots and spontaneous creativity, illustrated by their own collaboration on a fragrance campaign where the magic happened in the unplanned moments. Monica’s stories highlight the joy of discovery and the importance of embracing both structure and spontaneity in the creative process.
Tune in to The Corner for an inspiring and entertaining conversation that offers a glimpse into the life of a photographer who has mastered the art of capturing both the perfect shot and the unexpected beauty within it. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, a lover of art, or simply enjoy hearing fascinating life stories, this episode promises to captivate and inspire.
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