Jan Kevin Angeles : Driven by Design

Jan Kevin Angeles picked up his brother's camera, took it for a spin, and the rest - as every shutterbug would know - is history. Not having formal training in photography, Jan Kevin nonetheless has a good idea about a lot of photography composition principles because of his profession. He is a full-time architect who lives by the concept of design and form.  He still considers his brand of photography a project under construction, but he makes it a point to slowly but surely add to his portfolio whenever he gets a break from work. Getaways and vacations are his favorite photographic opportunities, and he'll be sure to capture places he visits or stays at.

From blueprints to execution, conceptualizing till the actual capture, for him it's a creative process. Jan Kevin Angeles is our featured Focus photographer of the month.

Q : How did your love story with photography start?
JK : It was in 2010 when my brother bought an entry-level DSLR camera. I had a chance to use it for some time. I started capturing anything inside our house, flowers, then animals at the backyard, people, et cetera. Later on I also would bring the camera to work and started shooting street and cityscapes at night. I'm really interested to capture long exposure shots mostly in the streets of Manila. My love for photography also flourished when I got a chance to join a photography club in Bulacan back then, and now in Focus Bulacan. Joining this group which shares the same passion as I have inspired me to be a better photographer and motivated me to practice and improve.
 
Q : Does your profession heavily influence your style or dictate what you mostly shoot?
JK : Yes, I can apply various architectural design principles, like the balance, proportion, perspective, emphasis, movement, pattern, repetition, rhythm, variety, harmony, and unity, which actually are alike to photography principles. My composition in shooting is sometimes influenced by my attention to details like when I am designing a building or a house. My choice in subjects is also sometimes dictated by my architecture profession like shooting notable structures, cityscapes, and historical buildings and sites.

Q : How would you describe your photography style?
JK : I have no specific style in photography, I just always capture what interests me. I really like doing long exposure photography because it includes effort comparable to when I am designing or building a house. It includes a process, patience, and attention to details.
 
Q : What camera gear do you shoot with most of the time?
JK : I used my brother’s Canon 1000D with kit lens for around five years. Then on 2015, I finally bought my own entry-level Fujifilm X-series mirrorless camera.

Q : Any particular photo that’s your ultimate favorite or one that you’re most proud of?
JK : It was my entry for Halamanan Festival back in January 2014 where I got first place in Focus Bulacan’s photo contest. (Photo is included in gallery below)
 
Q : Are there photographers you look up to?
JK : Sir Jay Salvador of Focus Bulacan. I’ve got a chance to work with him on our Focus Portrait Project. I admired his creativity and dedication in photography. He is very passionate in his photography.

Q : In terms of architectural design, what do you think is the most photogenic structure or landmark in the Philippines?
JK : Maybe the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan, which features different heritage structures. These houses come from different sites in the Philippines.

Q : What would be your dream destination to shoot?
JK : The Fallingwater or the Kaufmann Residence, an iconic house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Pennsylvania, USA. But as of now I am thinking of shooting different historic buildings and sites around the Philippines, then around the world.

Q : What‘s the most unforgettable photography experience you’ve had?
JK : The first time I shot fireworks at the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition in MOA. I was not really prepared that time and I didn’t know how to shoot fireworks. And I was so pressured because I don’t really know if I will focus on watching the fireworks or capture it with my camera.

Q : What do you still want to improve or achieve in your photography?
JK : I want to improve in long exposure and architectural photography. Those two are my main interests.

Q : Do you think photography plays a vital role in architecture?
JK : Yes! In terms of architecture, it allows everyone to see architecture from everywhere through photographs. It also opens doors for us to see how structures looked like in the past. I am also thinking of taking photos of my projects and make a compilation so that I can look back on it when I become old even show my grandchildren.

Q : Would you say your background in architecture gives you an edge in shooting photos?
JK : Yes, since architecture has various common principles which I can apply to photography.

Jan Kevin's other favorites (Click thumbnails to view in full)

Q : What tip could you give newbies?
JK : Know what you want. Maximize what you have.  Just keep on shooting. As much as possible, always bring your camera with you.

Q : What’s your message to Focus followers and fellow members?
JK : I am very grateful to all the members of this group because they served as my inspiration in photography. And I admire each and every one of them. Let us all continue striving to be better and let other people see the world differently using our cameras!Long live Focus Bulacan!

It is indeed a process. Lines, shapes, forms, curves, perspective, angles... they all are important elements that when put together result in an artistic creation. Design and visual impact are key. In the middle of it all - or we could also say it all starts with - the one in charge of the masterplan.

The architect. Or the photographer.

Or both.

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