Through the lens of Wallpaper* contributor Pauline Caranton

After a degree in architecture, our October 2019 issue photography contributor Pauline Caranton worked in set design for photography, before stepping behind the camera herself. Her still life and fashion imagery articulates memories, and captures her slanted take on beauty. Here, she reveals all behind her practise.

Wallpaper*: Describe your style of work and process.
Pauline Caranton: For the last few years I've shot a lot in film, as using analogue processes extends the moment between shooting to editing, creating a more reflective production process. Even after the pressing the shutter I continue to reinterpret the picture with negatives, scans, Photoshop and finally how it’s presented.
 
I think switching up cameras is a useful way to unblock creativity and any camera can be considered a perfect tool for any image you want to take. I want to continue not being categorised, experimenting with approaches in both photography and video. I find that challenge very exciting. I want to create images that will always feel true to me even decades down the line, so I probably create pictures that sit outside of trends. 

W*: Who or what made you want to be a photographer?
PC: I’ve been shooting since I was a child, using disposable cameras to fix my memories in albums. Still to this day I photograph my travels, special foods, or special moments so I can always remember them. My work often aims to articulate the memories and time shifts that images can evoke. I love the idea that my photographs could trigger memories for another person. 
 
Since gaining a diploma in architecture, I have remained open to ideas of form, light and scale. I really appreciate the particular perspective that my studies gave me, and the way I have been able to build on that since. It has given me knowledge on the construction of objects and composition, which I like to illustrate through my photographs.

W*: What’s currently on your radar?
PC: I found a lot of my inspiration within music and film, I can be intense with movies from my teenage years such as Star Wars – I’ll watch them over and over again infinitely. I also find a lot of creativity in a good playlist. I discovered the label Finders Keepers Records which does a super selection, like the amazing soundtrack of Moomins for example. 
 
In terms of photography I’m fascinated by authenticity. I went to Arles Photography Festival this summer and I was left speechless by the work of Mishka Henner who explores imagery and reportage as maps.
 
Photography is communication so going forward I want to respond more to current affairs, as the new generation of photographers we have visual voices and must make use of them. Currently I’m working on a longterm documentary project on the evolution of femininity.

INFORMATION
paulinecaranton.com