We recently printed Brandon McCarthy’s photo book, ‘In The Meantime’ for his final university project.
104 pages
130gsm silken internal pages
300gsm matte celloglaze cover (260mm x 210mm)
203mm x 254mm (8in x 10in)
Self-published photo book
55 copies printed
We asked Brandon a few questions about his project and what inspired the printed outcome.
FPP: Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
Brandon: I have recently graduated with a Bachelor of Design majoring in graphics in communication, although I have been freelancing since November last year. I have been working on brand development projects alongside graphic artworks for local business such as cafes, breweries and clothing brands.
However, my main passion lies in photography. Whether it is used as the main component or to support branding, I have been excited at how dynamic it is as a tool and a hobby. Using photography in tandem with my design skills has been rewarding personally and It is far more beneficial that I can diversify my offering when doing client work.
FPP: What inspired ‘In the Meantime’?
Brandon: Taking photos this year has been an interesting dynamic, especially during COVID and the restrictions alongside it. Looking through images over the course of the year I began to notice the changes in interaction, normal social agenda and how people begun to adapt to the changes as a community. It began to develop as a major body of work in response to my capstone course. The images were curated in a specific nature to inspire connection and reach those who may have felt lonely or withdrawn after periods of isolation. Although it was exceedingly personal that I was sharing my perspective with the world, I hoped that people could see the meaning behind the photos and relate to instances in their own life.
FPP: All the shots in the book are shot on film, can you tell us about why you choose to use this format?
Brandon: All of the courses I did while at university where taught on digital cameras, but I was introduced to film about a year ago and it has gotten to a point where I exclusively shoot analogue. It has allowed me to deepen my understanding of photography and I feel an undying allure to the process you have to take in order to capture beautiful images. There is so much more for me to learn about film as a format so I look forward to where it can take me creatively.
Shibui Film, Gold Coast: https://www.shibuifilm.com/
FPP: Would you share some insight into your design decisions for print finishing, paper stock and binding?
Brandon: After deciding that a printed outcome would be the best format for sharing my work, I was introduced to Dan Whitton through a mutual friend. I started to visit Fast Proof so that I could find suitable stock that reflected the feeling of the book. Film images have a specific colour grading and it can be difficult to match it on print and sometimes even digitally, so it was imperative that the stock was right. Dan was a huge help selecting the right paper stock for what I wanted, he had a wealth of knowledge and directed me straight to some great options. The cover has a matte celloglaze finish which worked perfectly on my cover image, it also has great protective qualities, so it was a no brainer. Finally, the book is perfect bound, it’s quite a common binding method for a book of this size but it provides a great finish on the spine, so I was happy to go ahead.
FPP: How did you find the process of printing with us (FPP)?
Brandon: I couldn’t be happier with my choice to work with Fast Proof Press. They were professional and knowledgeable when it came to print and helped me achieve my vision for the book. Both Dan’s where very prompt in getting my project from PDF to a printed tangible outcome, as they were aware of my deadline. It was a pleasure to be able to drive out and speak to them in person as it is hard to communicate specific requirements over email and it shows in the final product.
FPP: What is next for you?
Brandon: After completing ‘In the Meantime’ I am eager to take my photography and design work to new heights. I endeavour to work on some personal projects for the remainder of the year to fall in love with what I do all over again. Generally, my projects are birthed from an ideology that is found during the process of creating so I look forward to the new year, the first official year out of graduation and into the professional world.
FPP: Where can we see some of your other work?
Brandon: I am active in posting my work online platforms such as Instagram where I post a lot of works in progress and final outcomes. Additionally, I have recently developed a website to showcase my gallery, projects and retail the photo book.
Find me here
Brandon’s Instagram: @brando.mccarthy, @brandon.create
Brandon’s website: https://brandon-mccarthy.com/
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