It might have been a while since Ian Poole had regular access to his own studio, but as one of the Foto Frenzy team he now has the beautiful Foto Frenzy HQ Studio at his disposal. (side note: The last period I worked in a studio with Ian was when I was an assistant in his shared studio in the mid-1980’s!)

Ian has started a new project aimed at creating a new body of work that will help to satisfy his need to shoot. Last week he had his first subject in front of the lens – Brisbane family photographer Lynda Coulson.

In this image of Lynda we find quite a confrontational approach– you get the feeling it’s an attempt by Ian to delve deep into the character of his subject.

With a background in working with black and white film emulsions and using the 6x6cm Hasselblad system, here Ian seems to be attempting to replicate a medium format, filmic look and feeling, using his full-frame Nikon D700 and a 60mm Micro Nikkor lens. This is bringing him very close to his subject and requiring an intimate connection between subject and photographer that is not necessarily achieved with a longer lens. The careful use of available light is another sign of a master plying his trade.

We will watch to see more of the Poole Portrait Project in the near future.