Carla Charlton
Tell us a little about yourself! Where are you from/where do you live? What do you like to do besides photography?
My name is Carla Charlton. I live in Vancouver, BC, working for film and television productions in the props department. Outside of work, I like to spend some quiet time at home listening to my vinyl collection or hit the road with my partner and explore the PNW. Due to covid we haven’t spent much time on the road, but I’ve taken advantage by spending more time walking around Vancouver.
What camera are you currently using the most? What’s your go-to film stock?
My go-to set up is my Canon AE-1 Program, I take it everywhere! I mostly use Kodak film stocks, my favourites are Portra 400 and Ektar 100.
What’s your dream camera?
I have it! Hasselblad 500c. Well, any V-series Hasselblad camera.
Is there a film stock you haven’t gotten the chance to try but really want to?
Cinestill 50D or any expired colour film.
When did you first get into photography? When and how did you get into shooting film?
For me this is hard to pin down an exact time, I always liked taking photos and my mom had a point and shoot back in the ‘90s that I used when I was little. I got back into shooting film about 7 years ago, when I picked up my grandfather’s old Praktica camera, and haven't stopped since.
Describe your style of photography. What style of photography do you find yourself drawn to? Is there something you would like to start shooting?
I would say a good portion of my photography resembles street photography styles. I love taking photos of all the unique homes and garden landscaping around Vancouver, and cool classic cars I find along the way. I would also say landscape and adventure is another side to my photography. I really want to grow confidence in shooting portraits and more candid shots of friends and other people.
"This photo was taken on my first roll through my Hasselblad 500c, on Ilford HP5 400ISO. This auto body shop is next to one of my boyfriend’s favourite skate spots in Vancouver and they always have cool cars parked in the back, so I make my way over there with him from time to time. This 1960’s MG is one of my favourite classic cars to capture on film so I was extremely lucky to end my first 120 roll with one!"
What made you choose the Hasselblad 500c? What were your first thoughts on the camera and are there any tips/tricks/side notes you want anyone who is considering one to know?
I was always drawn to Hasselblads, and I finally had a bit of extra cash so I took the plunge and got one! The lenses are Zeiss lenses with amazing glass, and I love the size of the camera. A lot of medium format cameras are bulky and weigh 20 pounds, and I was happy to get my 10 pound cube haha. If considering medium format cameras, my advice would be to look at what you can afford first. I decided to buy my dream camera but there are plenty of great affordable options for those starting out.
"Shot on my Canon AE-1 program with Kodak Ektar 100 film. I captured this photo last summer while kayaking with my friend (pictured). I feel like this photo perfectly encapsulates what it’s like to be in BC, the sense of adventure and the great outdoors."
One camera, one film, one location for an entire year.
What are they?
I would take my Hasselblad, Kodak Portra 400 or 800, and move to Italy for the year, specifically the Amalfi Coast.
Is there anyone that has really influenced your work or someone that you draw inspiration from? Either another artist or someone outside of the photography world?
I mostly look to my peers and other photographers on Instagram when I’m looking for inspiration. I have a saved folder on my account full of their work to look to.
You released your book “Home Sweet East Van” late last year, can you tell us how that came about and do you have plans for another book/zine?
I spent a fair amount of time last year walking around Vancouver shooting, and after spending a wonderful day walking around East Vancouver, I decided to make my first zine. I was so thrilled with my results from that fall day, I decided to put it together. I was happy just to sell a few copies, I loved sharing my work. I definitely have other projects in mind, I’d love to collaborate with friends or other film photographers.
How do you manage to find all of the amazing cars you photograph? Do you set aside a time to go out and search for them, do you have connections in the automotive world that allows you to access them, or do you just keep a camera on you in case you happen to come across one?
I wish I had connections to the automotive world! Vancouver is a great place to find lots of cool classic cars, I happen to come across most of them. There are some things that I have picked up on over the years, like where the auto body shops are and where certain cars are parked.
You ride a motorcycle! What do you ride? Do you see yourself eventually working in some 'moto' aspects into your photography?
I ride a 2008 Triumph Bonneville, and I absolutely love it. I think if I ever shoot any moto content it will mostly be from trips I take, camping or just rides out and about. Maybe the odd bike found on the street here and there too.
1-2 songs that you currently have on repeat.
I Know - Aly & AJ
He Said She Said - CHVRCHES
Goals for this year?
Shoot more than last year! Maybe another zine/book?
Favourite Quote
A bit wordy but I love the sentiment:
“It is good to love as much as one can, for therein lies true strength, and he who loves much does much and is capable of much, and that which is done with love is well done.” - Vincent Van Gogh
Any closing statements or messages you want to send to readers?
Just hope everyone is staying safe, and I’m looking forward to us all having a more sociable summer in BC! See you soon!
