Gerald Gloton : Passion For Fashion

He'll burst into a scene full of enthusiasm, and one couldn't help but notice and offer a smile. But it's a smile that wouldn't be as infectious as his. Makes you wonder if that's the same charm he uses when he does photoshoots with gorgeous people and demanding staff that make them satisfy his creative lust.

A newsman by day (he's a production coordinator for GMA News' Special Assignments Team), he ventures into collaborations or personal projects on his free time, nonchalantly but definitely making his mark with his brand of photography. Always on the lookout for opportunities to learn and upgrade his skills, but now one who has been called upon to share his insight to budding photographers in workshops. It's time we get to know more about the man with the passion for fashion. Gerald Gloton is Focus Bulacan's featured photographer of the month.

Q : Tell us about your photography beginnings.
Gerald : It was during 3rd year high when I started being trigger-happy as I capture photos with my phone camera. Then my college friend let me borrow their school paper DSLR for a day which made me explore more by shooting behind-the-scene photos from our stage play.  Then in college I started earning from photographing for events, and did new layouts for our student publication magazines. All these experiences kept my passion alive.
 
Q : You work well with models…. why do you think is that so?
G : Maybe it’s just me, being a ‘people’ person. I have developed that skill since age 7 when I needed to borrow a puncher from the bus conductor for my birthday giveaways. Making them at ease is one good factor of a successful shoot. Good music and the magic of engaging with them by six degrees of separation like…”kilala mo rin si ganito?” will do. Also, for the first few shots, I let them do the poses they want to at least make them comfortable.
 
Q : What made you inclined to fashion photography?
G : The existence of friends with star quality, I guess? I started out shooting with class fashionistas and the influence brought about by watching America’s Next Top Model and checking on the sheets of Rogue magazine.

Q : What’s the most difficult part of fashion shoots or editorials?
G : More than dealing with a set of people with various inputs and contributions to uphold a seamless layout, it’s actually about the ideas. Aside from communicating trends, one has to deliver an appropriate look which involves emotion and action that will give balance to a photo.
 
Q : We know you’re just starting to accumulate lighting gear. Can you share with us what equipment you mostly use in your shoots?
G : I currently use a 300-watt studio monolight flash and for backdrops, 5-peso cartolinas will do.
 
Q : What look do you usually try to achieve? Or what’s your signature style in shooting fashion?
G : Since I’ve already started with folio looks, I’m now trying to commute a higher impact portraiture with fashion. The signature I could apply at times is from magazine influences, breathing and in motion.

Q : Have plans of eventually making photography your bread and butter?
G : For me it still works part-time, but if there’s an open door…why not? Hence, photography serves as my break from a stressful weekly day job.
 
Q : Who are your photography idols, especially when it comes to fashion photography?
G : Mark Nicdao, for he has been successfully pairing portraiture with fashion…giving impact from motion and emotion. Annie Leibovitz for her iconic and ethereal works. Nigel Barker for his high ‘Top Model’ influence. And the high fashion layouts of Alexander Neumann.
 
Q: Looking back, what was the most frustrating thing you encountered relating to photography?
G: Shooting for me brings out positivity and learning. I couldn’t recall any frustrating moment, so far.

Q : How does it feel now that you’re the one imparting knowledge in photography talks?
G: Being able to share my knowledge even if I am self-taught, it feels really great that I get to encourage fellow budding artists to nurture their craft. It is actually a blessing to share this blessing.

Q: What else do you still want to achieve in photography?
G : Every shoot is a learning experience. I am open to endless possibilities. But as of the moment, I am thinking of creating a photo series which focuses on certain advocacies.
 
Q : Who would be your dream male model? Female model?
G : The amazing Lucky Blue Smith for male, and contemporary female model Coco Rocha.

Q : And who would be your dream collaboration?
G : Mark Nicdao for a Rogue cover and Paco Guerrero for a travel editorial!

Q : Would there be a most kick-ass concept you’ve been wanting to execute? Care to share it?
G : I could hardly recall but what I could say is I gotta kick ass in every shoot!

More of Gerald's favorite fashion/portrait photos (click thumbnails to view in full)

View more of Gerald's works on his Instagram account : chowderglotty
or his Facebook page for events : Dream Project Media

"Floral Thorn"

Q : Do you have a most favorite photo?
G : Every single work I do has a relevant story and that’s why it’s just so hard to choose. But for now I would say, it’s the Floral Thorn, depicting a gender-bender identity which surely speaks of a lot of things. I’m actually planning to make a series out of it in the future if time and opportunity permit.
 
Q : What are your tips or advice for photographers who are just starting to get their feet wet.
G : Kapit lang. If you do what you love, and love what you do…I’m sure you’re on track. It’s normal to feel unsatisfied and hopeless at times... these moments give more gravity to your passion. Of course, you gotta love your photo first before anyone else.
 
Q : What's your message for fellow Focus photographers?
G : I am forever thankful because more than being a part of a premier photography group, I found a great family of diverse talents with bottomless serving of creative juices. Being a part of Focus keeps the drive, helps everyone upgrade in various aspects, and gives a clearer path to a photographer’s free-spirited journey.

Gerald won 2015 Photographer Of The Year honors of a youth organization

Full of promise and brimming with optimism, things are definitely looking up. The ride has been long, but for Gerald it has been a cruise all along. He has enjoyed every single mile of it. And we should, too, you know?

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