Who?
Originally from a rural municipality north of Manila, I spent more than a decade in the print industry. I presently work full-time as a pre-production designer/programmer for a company based in the Bay Area, and freelance as an editor and designer of photo books and zines. I am also an avid photo book collector.
I picked up a camera in my teens, whence my love-hate relationship with the camera began. I then discovered a fascination for candid photos and the snapshot aesthetic so photography has become an obsession and I have never stopped since.
What?
Life today and just about anything that intrigues me. It could be a candid scene, a character, gestures, the absurd, a gut feeling. I don’t go out with an agenda or expectation. I try to stay open to the possibilities, react, and trust my instinct. I still use film so I like to be surprised when I scan the negatives.
Where?
Wherever I can get the most luck to make photographs. San Francisco is known for its great light, busy streets, and a population of interesting characters so you’d typically find me there, standing on a corner or walking up and down Market Street. I’m also interested in exploring cities within the city. Spontaneity plays a big part in my process so I try not to plan and just photograph wherever I am.
When?
I constantly have the compulsion to take photos. I feel awful missing photos that might be potential keepers so I don’t leave home without my cameras.
Why?
Endless curiosity. Photography helps commemorate experiences. It may be soul-crushing most of the time because of the failures in the process but I try to be optimistic. Photography keeps me on my toes. It’s a great escape from the everyday and a good excuse to be out in the world. I also learn more about life because of it.
© Ben Molina: Instagram
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