Behind the Lens: In Conversation with Tim Ashton
Fashion photographer Tim Ashton's work is characterised by a distinct energy, where he consistently experiments with expression and movement to add layers of depth to his creations. After completing his studies at the Queensland College of Art, Tim made the leap to New York to collaborate with some of the world's most renowned photographers.
He has quickly become one of Australia’s most sought after photographers with an extensive list of fashion brands and clients he shoots for, alongside has been featured in publications such as RUSSH, Vogue Australia, GQ, Rollingstone and Harper's Bazaar Australia.
As the photographer for our latest Resort '24 campaign in Spain, we had the opportunity to interview Tim, allowing us to gain insight into both his vibrant personality and his creative process.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Well, I’m originally from Brisbane, I moved to the US when I was 25 and afterwards came to Sydney which has been my home for about 12 years now.
One fun fact about you?
I secretly want to give this all up and run a little wine bar in my neighbourhood.
3 things you can't leave home without?
Clean teeth, iPhone and a vintage American trucker hat.
Life of the party or home body?
Home body always!
3 people alive or dead you would want to have dinner with?
Anders Frederik Steen, Frank Cornelissen and Sasa Radikon
Where do you find your inspiration?
Mostly from movies and photographers who were big in the 90’s and early 2000’s
Who are some of your favourite creatives at the moment and why?
At the moment I am really interested in people from other disciplines like design and architecture. Ramdane Touhami, Perron-Roettinger. They are interesting people to me because they help me to think outside the usual box I'm in and see cool stuff in new places.
What is your favourite part about your job?
Collaborating with people, working towards a common goal of making beautiful images.
Highlights of shooting the KIVARI Resort 24 collection in Spain and any funny hiccups?
Definitely working with nice people whose company I genuinely enjoyed. Also discovering some little restaurant gems in the Old Town. We had zero hiccups! Although, I did leave the hire car sunroof open overnight with heavy rain. Luckily it was so hot the next day it evaporated.
Go-to playlist on set ?
“Work Playlist #3” which is mostly hip hop and r&b or “classic & vibey” full of 70’s groovy stuff.
Destination shoot or studio shoot?
Is that a serious question? DESTINATION
You have shot in so many incredible places, where has been your favourite?
Top location for shooting would be Paris followed by Mexico
What does a typical day in the life of Tim Ashton look like?
A typical day for me is making scrambled eggs for my kids right before driving to shoot in town or a full day of editing at my office. Home, dinner in the outdoor pizza oven and some nice wine.
What piece of advice would you give to young creatives in the beginning of their career?
Assist the best people in town, then leave that town to a bigger town and assist the best people there. Continue on that path till you’re frustrated with working for other people then start building your folio. Everything will happen naturally from there.
