YH MATES: Photographer James Adams

Shot by James Adams

We’ve been everywhere with James Adams. From inner west pubs to the other side of the world (ask him about our Ireland trip…), we can’t count the number of times we’ve found ourselves caught in the crossfire of his lens. While there’s very few who have captured the essence of YH and the people around us quite like James, his wandering eye has seen him pursue a range of subjects.

Now, the lucky buggers in his new home city of Melbourne have the opportunity to check out a varied selection of his work at a brand new exhibition at Sonics Gallery titled ‘Null & Void’. We caught up with our old mate to learn about the show and what life in the south has in store for him. Read on.

YH: Let’s back track - How long have you been shooting?

JA: At around 14 years old I found a camera in the cupboard that my Mum used as a teenager while living in London. At 15 we went halves in a camera, at 17 I bought my first professional camera and lens, and not long after that I had my first photography invoice paid. So, the short answer is 20+ years.

YH: What do you shoot?
JA: I shoot whatever catches my attention… as well as what pays the bills. That’s people, music, lifestyle, everyday life, brand images and even landscapes (showing my age).
 

YH: Tell us about Null & Void. What’s it about?

JA: In all honesty, it’s my attempt at avoiding becoming null & void. My wife, son and I moved down to Melbourne in November and it’s a whole new city to start making inroads in. I’m now an old guy. I’ve got pressures on me that come with age and responsibilities, I’ve got wrinkles on my face and I’ve even got grey hair in my beard for fucks sake. I’m worried I’ve lost the cache that being young, hot and cool affords you as opposed to the wrinkly old bitter bastard you see before you now. I wanted to prove that I’ve still got it. The photos that is, not the young, hot or cool thing… 

Our muse. Shot by James Adams

YH: What have you got coming up for ’24?

JA: Another birthday unfortunately. I’m kidding. I’m hoping to align with some of the epic creative agencies that call Melbourne home to work on some projects from start to finish. In the past I’d frequently pitch ideas to brand in order to shoot the project. Over time I realised I’ve become all right at this process and those ideas hold value. So now I’m focused on the next chapter of my career, big ideas, start to finish, teamwork.

It’s a change, an evolution, but it’s keeping my brain sharp, my creative desire fulfilled and most likely my beard grey. And I’m happy with that.

Cheers for the chat, love me a Henrys!

Null & Void is showing at Sonics Gallery in Thornbury until March 3rd. To check out some of the shots on display/sale, click here. Follow James at @the.james.adams and Thejamesadams.com