Beyond the voice of the Candid Frame podcast - Interview with Ibarionex Perello
Ibarionex Perello is a Fujifilm X photographer and founder of the legendary Candid Frame podcast running for more than 15 years! Beyond the story of this iconic Podcast, I wanted to know more about the photographer, his story and passion for photography, how did he deal with the pandemic and some of his personal projects.
Your podcast (the Candid Frame) is one of the references in the photographic scene with more than 550 episodes .... I will maybe start with a cliche question but at the same time so relevant, what pushed you to create the Candid Frame back in the days?
I began listening to podcasts in 2005 to pass the time during my long commutes to work. Though I worked as an editor for a photo magazine, I still gravitated to photo-concentric content. However, most of the podcast focused on gear. I thought it was a missed opportunity for a show that would revolve around conversations about actual photography and leading a photographic life. I knew how to interview people as a result of my journalism experience and I knew many photographers. So, I decided to create a show I would like to listen to. The rest is history.
In listening to your podcast one can easily realize the prep work behind each episode. Can you walk us through the process of preparing an episode and guest selection?
I research as much as possible. I will read books, magazine articles, listen to previous interviews, and immerse myself in the photographer’s work. It’s essential for me because I don’t work from written questions. I want them to be more conversation than question/answer sessions. Doing my research makes it easy to do just that. I am constantly checking out work that’s out there including book releases, exhibitions, and press releases for people to consider. I also have both short and long lists of people who I would like to interview. I will never get around to all of them because I only have so many slots on the show. However, I try to create a diverse selection of photographers and work each season.
You are first and foremost a photographer of 25 years experience, can you share with us how it all started?
I learned photography as a member of the Boys Club of Hollywood. From the moment, I created my first print, I was sold on the process. I have been blessed that my entire professional career has revolved around photography.
Through your portfolio, we can see its documentary aspect? Was it always present and what meaning does it have for you?
Since my first experience with photojournalism working at the college paper at Los Angeles City College, I have always had an interest in documentary photography. I love the storytelling aspect of that approach and am always looking for opportunities to practice this genre of photography. I am always working on short and long-term projects, most of which are personal.
Street photography is as well characteristic of your work - what does this genre bring you?
It’s the genre of photography that has allowed me to hone my skills as a photographer. I have developed my way of seeing and making photographs. Street photography challenges me to see things in a very different way and requires a level of presence that has been invaluable to all my other work both as a photographer and a writer.
You are as well a Fujifilm X Photographer; can you walk us through this collaboration?
I was asked to be a Fujifilm X-Photographer at the end of 2020. I was honored that they approach me. I've been using their equipment for over 7 years and have become my system of choice. Our collaboration provides me opportunities to continue to produce the work that I enjoy and share that experience with other Fujifilm enthusiasts. It’s allowing me to expand my audience as well as provide Fujifilm someone who talks practically about how their equipment is used.
With the current pandemic situation, I was wondering whether you manage to leverage the Covid situation in your creative work?
I work at the Huntington Museum, Library, and Garden in San Marino, CA. I work there as a special project photographer, where I mostly photograph items in the library’s extensive collection. However, I began documenting how the campus has dealt with Covid over the past year. It’s been an amazing photographic opportunity as I have had complete access to the campus. It’s been very gratifying work.
Lastly, I was inspired by your involvement in photography & mental illness. Could you share with our readers what is about?
I have struggled all my life with depression and anxiety. However, I was only formally diagnosed with major depressive disorder several years ago. It was an incredible relief to finally understand what I had felt the way I had for most of my life. Along with therapy and medication, my life has improved dramatically and has provided me a healthier perspective on my emotions and why I think and do things in the way that I do. I am so grateful that I was finally able to achieve such clarity.
To know more about:
The Candid Frame - on appel podcast / spotify
