Luna Sweetheart: Shaun Llewellyn
Photos provided by Shaun Llewellyn
WHETHER IT’S THROUGH CONCERT PHOTOGRAPHY OR PORTRAITS - Shaun Llewellyn crafts an image that holds the attention of the viewer for way more than just a quick glance. Showcasing an array of temperatures, Llewellyn has a portfolio filled equally with warm and inviting shots as well as cool toned stark shots. Though the Conneticut based creative has his roots in sports, he’s found great joy in finding his place in the photography world. Finding a love for film photography for its ability to capture colors like no other, Llewellyn has unexpectedly established himself as a budding photographer with a sharp eye.
Like many other creatives, Llewellyn has had to pivot some of his artistic endeavors due to COVID-19 but has still kept creating beautiful shots and building his portfolio. This year will sure bring new challenges, but opportunities as well for Llewellyn as he continues to craft his identity as a photographer. Read below to learn more about his transition from sports to photographer, what he misses most about live music and more.
LUNA: How are you doing lately? How are you taking care of yourself?
LLEWELLYN: I've been doing good! I can't really complain because things could be a lot worse with everything that's going on in the world right now. I've been trying to just slow down and appreciate everyday things like life, family and health. It's really helped take my mind off of the drastic changes to today's times.
LUNA: Can you share a bit about the transition from pursuing photography as a hobby to pursuing it as a career?
LLEWELLYN: I haven't really given it much thought. It kind of just happened. I would put together shoots for fun and practice, or I'd go to shows for fun with my camera to take photos and share them on social media, and as time passed I started getting inquiries on shoots and events. I still have a hard time thinking about doing this as a career because it literally came out of nowhere. I played sports for about 12 years and expected to work in sports as well, so for me to be doing this is still kind of crazy to me haha. I'm very new to the transition but it's been very joyful so far. Overall, I try not to think too hard about "transitioning to a career" because I don't want to kill the fun in it. I just keep doing what I've been doing when I first started along with adjusting how I spend my time and just knowing the value in the work I do.
LUNA: Though on pause because of COVID-19, you take amazing concert and live photos. What do you like most about shooting shows?
LLEWELLYN: I love the energy! There's nothing better than when an artist comes out for that first song, and the lights and just beaming, with the crowd going crazy! There's really no other feeling like it. I try to capture that in my photos.
LUNA: Your photos all have such a powerful edge to them - they’re just so crisp and radiate a strong energy. How have you seen your style develop over time?
LLEWELLYN: Thank you, I really appreciate that! When I first started I would find myself with very contrasty images and I didn’t really put much thought into editing. When time went by I really fell in love with flat but also vibrant colors. I think that's why I like film a lot for portraits and eventually switched over. I still do digital for live music of course but I try to be consistent with a low contrast vibrant image.
LUNA: What’s the story behind your favorite photo you’ve taken this year?
LLEWELLYN: My favorite photo of 2020 has to be of Trippie Redd jumping mid air! A friend of mine did production for his latest tour and he was able to get me a photo pass for that show that came to Connecticut. I had full access so I was really patient all night for a particular shot I wanted. I knew one of his high energy songs was coming up so I made sure I got to the middle of the stage and got down really low for the shot. I came out perfect! From the focus, to the light, to the edit. This isn't the most interesting story but it's an important shot to me because it was the last show that I got to attend and shoot in 2020 due to COVID-19, and as of now live shows don't seem to be happening any time soon so I'm kind of cherishing that photo haha.
LUNA: Outside of photography itself, what other skills have you learned that have been crucial to your career?
LLEWELLYN: It has to be patience. Whether it's waiting for a shot, a client, an opportunity, it all requires patience. I mean, I've always been a patient person, but with photography it requires a different level of it.
LUNA: Lately, who/what’s been inspiring you?
LLEWELLYN: Lately I've been inspired by alot of people but If I had to narrow it down, I'd say Aimos (@Aimos) for his ability to story tell with his work and for his use of color and creativity. Also Ravie B (@Ravieb) Renell Medrano and Ro Lexx (ro.lexx) ! Their work is out of this world to me. their work just does something for me that I can't really put into words haha. From their colors to use of subjects and more. It's just perfect to me.
LUNA: Sky is the limit with this one - who is your dream individual to take photos of?
LLEWELLYN: I'd have to say Rihanna! I want to shoot a live show for her. I feel that she'd give a great energy and it'd be effortless to shoot.
LUNA: Though 2020 is over, all of these weird times continue. What do you hope to gain in the upcoming months?
LLEWELLYN: I just want peace to be completely honest. 2020 went so left and literally everything changed for me. It was so frustrating because I really feel like I was on my way to the next level but It was out of my control which is fine. I just really want to be able to come to peace with not having everything figured out during these times, if that makes sense. I just want everyone to be safe and mentally and physically healthy overall.
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From Pavietra 🕊️ https://t.co/BXVgWlZud8 -
slowthai by Rosie Matheson 🤩 https://t.co/z7SDfFQ5iF
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