Behind the Lens with Sevin: Capturing Youth, Style and Sound
Could you please introduce yourself?
Hey Frnd Mag, I'm Sevin/Sev/7. I’m a film photographer and artist working on Gadigal Land, Sydney.
How did you get into photography?
I’ve always been a naturally curious person and drawn to art - books, writing, poetry, photography, etc. When I got to uni, I studied law and journalism because I loved storytelling and wanted to investigate what was happening around me (don’t ask me about law, that was to make my ethnic parents happy lol!). Over time, that interest shifted toward visual storytelling.
As I finished uni, I got into the rave and event scene in Sydney, and that opened up a whole new world for me. The energy, the people, the freedom - it was refreshing and inspiring. I started feeling this pull to document it all, especially the unique people who attended and the diverse community around it. I felt like my creativity, which was always inside of me, was really coming out.
I picked up a camera and started shooting events and creating with others. It then became a regular thing, and I was getting booked to shoot different gigs. I still have a full-time job - but a fun hobby on the side that I get to do most weekends.
Do you remember what your first camera was?
I have always been the designated photographer and moment capturer my whole life. My first digital camera was a Nikon Coolpix. Then, when I was around 18, I bought a film point-and-shoot camera. Shoutout to my favourite film lab @sydneysuper8 for selling me my first point and shoot and my main SLR camera now - they’re the best <3
Your photos are incredibly unique; how did you develop your style?
It’s something that naturally developed over time from shooting in different spaces, events, and people. Of course, I’ve always had certain inspirations that helped shape my taste, such as the raw, documentary-style photography I’d see in Dazed, i-D, and Vice. That kind of gritty imagery stood out to me. I never want my photos to look too polished - and have never shot with a super technical mindset.
I’m drawn to images that have life in them. That’s why I prefer being out on location over studio shoots. It feels more authentic, and I have space to take the images wherever I want to, with the person I am shooting with. I’m an intuitive shooter and have always led my shoots that way, whether I’m at an event or shooting with artists.
I like shooting on film for the same reason. You only get a limited number of shots, and there’s not much retouching - it’s all about what you capture in the moment. Whether it’s at events or during one-on-one shoots with people, that setup tends to lead to some special and intimate moments.
What tips would you give other photographers trying to be authentic and find their style?
I would say check in with your intentions for shooting. Listen to your intuition. Follow your vision. There’s so much noise, especially online. Instead of blindly hopping on what everyone else is doing, respect your art. Don’t create for the algorithm.
I like to view myself as an artist, and my photos as art. It can’t be rushed.
I try to check in constantly with myself to make sure I’m creating and posting intentionally, to stay authentic to myself. And I would recommend others to do the same.
That doesn’t mean you have to take it so seriously either, have fun with it - but stay in your lane!
Do you have a favourite project you’ve worked on?
I have a favourite moment from shooting. It was when a friend, @bouki, threw a warehouse party at Studio Killa, which I was shooting at, and Flowdan rocked up. It was a pretty fun and surreal moment, partying with Flowdan, in a sweaty warehouse party in Marrickville. Those fun, spontaneous moments make me grateful for what I do.
What are your thoughts on the Australian creative scene?
I think the Australian creative scene is exciting. I feel that especially about Sydney. We’ve got so many talented local creatives (tattoo artists, musicians, DJs, etc.). There are so many exciting brands and curated events coming out of Sydney, too, publications like @pushmagsydney! I like to see it grow.
What is your go-to camera/lighting setup? What gear do you currently use?
Right now, I am really enjoying shooting with my 50mm lens, with a Godox flash. I like to bring my camcorder into the mix sometimes and create multimedia content with it. If I’m feeling like adding some fun, I like to reach for my fish-eye lens. I don’t think you need super expensive equipment to create with, just your taste.
You seem to shoot lots of film. Do you prefer it to digital? And if so, why?
I only shoot film. I like the slow and intentional process of shooting with it. During my shoots, I know exactly how many shots I am working with. Afterwards, I don’t have to cull or have decision fatigue over my shots. I also love the look of the film; nothing compares to the colours. Especially Portra 400, my fave <3
Every time we check your Instagram, you seem to be working on something new. Where do you hope to be in five years?
I’m still figuring this out, day by day. I’d like to keep shooting cool events, creating with local brands and other artists. I would love to publish a body of work in a photobook or something, someday!
Who or what inspires you, and where do you draw your inspiration from?
There’s so much inspo around me. I get inspired by tattoo artists, fashion, music and spirituality. By underground worlds, different subcultures and people around me.
What single piece of advice would you give to a creative who is reading this?
“I would say, don’t listen to your limiting voices and don’t let perfectionism delay you. There is a reason why you are being called to create. It’s a blessing, so chase it.
Also, stay active! I’ve come to learn that movement is my anchor and helps me stay creative. Movement is there for me on good and bad days; I always come back to it if I need a little reboot.
This didn’t end up being a single piece of advice, but all of this is what I’d dish out.”
You’ve photographed loads of creatives. If you could collaborate with any creative in Australia or Worldwide, who would they be and why?
I would have loved to have shot with Mac Miller (RIP!). He seemed so in tune with his creative side, and I would have loved a chance to capture his personality on camera.
Where can people find you? (Website, social media, etc.)
You can find me IG:@seviiiiinnnn, and check out my website sevin.com.au
@seviiiiinnnn
