As a fine art photographer, I go beyond simply capturing what is in front of the camera. I manipulate my reality like an artist, using a camera instead of a paintbrush. My intention is to create visual experiences: Sometimes that involves using a cinematic approach, telling a story and creating a mood; other times he captures the magic that light and shadow communicate.
My work engages with a wide range of emotions. I don’t just explore my inner thoughts and feelings, but allow the viewer to experience whatever may arise for them. I never dictate what I should feel or think; I just hope there’s something they can relate to.
I often overlay my images with other scenes or textures I have photographed, be it landscape, sky, water or buildings, to produce an ethereal effect. I first created multi-layered images with film and darkroom techniques. Now I get those imaginative and aesthetic qualities through digital tools. You can see the influence of – and my love for – surrealism and French cinema through my choice of lighting and use of black and white and color grading.
I am completely self-taught. I became a professional photographer after a career as a singer, songwriter and musician. I have always had a keen interest in photography, and many of my friends and fellow musicians have encouraged me to pursue my passion full time.
When I think of creating visuals, Joe Cocker’s song “Space Captain” comes to mind:
Once traveling across the sky
This beautiful planet caught my eye
And being curious I flew over close…
Sinden Collier is a Houston-based photographer. In 2001, she was the first black female photographer signed by Getty Images. Collier’s “Trains of Thought: Welcome Aboard” received an honorable mention on Elizabeth Avedon’s list of Best Photography Books of 2017. Her photographs have been featured in magazines and advertising campaigns, both nationally and internationally. . In December, Collier’s work is featured in “Citywide Exhibition of African-American Artists” at the Glassell School of Art at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.
