Hugh Kretschmer

Hugh Kretschmer is a photographer based in Los Angeles and specializing in photo-illustration, advertising and editorial photography and design. Of his work, he says: ‘The idea is the most important ingredient. I’ve always appreciated concept because it adds another layer to the photograph and invites participation from the viewer. When I see something that is done well, where the artist really nails it, I find myself just staring. I can’t think of anything else that would be more of a compliment than that’.

‘My inspiration comes from many unidentifiable sources and is probably more like an amalgamation of different influences from many years of absorbing. I come from a very artistic family and there was a lot of reference around the house. As a result, my early work was heavily influenced by twentieth century painting and sculpture. I think the thread is still there and, perhaps, evident in the photos I did last week’.

‘As far as the next personal project I put into the works, the decision is based on what will bring me the most creative satisfaction and push my book forward. It is best if it also gets me out of my comfort zone and has me trying things that I have not done: build a prop in a way that is untried or solve a visual problem by a technique I have not used before. I may sweat and I may fail. But at the end of the day, I can at least say I tried’.

‘My work has been described as many things, from “dark” to “whimsical”. I like that and I take it as a compliment. I appreciate a great many things and, perhaps, that’s showing up in my work. Regardless, I think the biggest goal it has to achieve is fulfilling me creatively. That is first and foremost and has always been that way. I would love it to bring me the next great job and I would not be honest if said otherwise’.

Interview by Alison Zavos.