NEW SIGNING / ALEXIS KO
We are absolutely delighted to introduce you to our latest signing- food, drink and still life photographer extraordinaire Alexis Ko.
Alexis's journey into the realm of photography began at a young age when she obtained her first Viewmaster in the early 90s. Fascinated by the ability to freeze moments in time, she embarked on a lifelong pursuit of capturing the beauty that surrounds us (and goes in our mouths!). Through experimentation and constant learning at Edinburgh College of Art, Alexis honed her skills and developed a unique perspective that sets her work apart. Her background in graphic design shines through as she perfectly marries colours and compositions.
Alexis' Asian roots are reflected in her work, which often encompasses nostalgic themes, transporting the viewer back to their childhood. This talented lady has a remarkable knack for finding the extraordinary within the ordinary, and turning everyday scenes into mesmerizing works of art, through both stills and moving image. This is something Alexis clients clearly agree with, having regularly worked with the likes of Lidl, Dobbies Garden Centres, Old Pulteney Distillery, Mossburn Distillery, The Scottish Soup Co, Mimi’s Bakehouse to name a few.
We couldn’t wait to speak to her regarding her journey thus far!
Tell us a bit about your background, you were born in the Philippines, weren’t you? Does this influence your work in any way?
I grew up in a typical Filipino-Chinese home, watched American sitcoms and Spanish telenovelas, and had friends from all over the world…
My work is often inspired by the personal memories and lived experiences I had growing up in the Philippines and later, in the UK.
What is it about food/drink photography that has you hooked?
Food plays a huge part of our existence, not only for survival but also because it carries a lot of historical, emotional and cultural significance. I love food from that perspective but I also love eating!
What’s your favourite food or drink to photograph?
Don’t make me choose!
I love capturing texture, whether it be gooey, crunchy or melty.
Your work often encompasses throwback treats, 90s party/ childhood snacks for example, do you have a particular interest in nostalgia?
My favourite thing about photographs is seeing something that makes you go, “oh I remember those!” and takes you back to a happy memory.
I try to incorporate it in my own work by referencing my own memories of growing up.
What has been your best or most memorable shoot to date?
I recently spotted some Essie nail varnishes that reminded me of everyday food condiments. It inspired me to shoot a series of four diptychs that were a playful take on colours, beauty and food. It was a fun shoot, but I still find random bits of nail varnish everywhere!
What is one thing every food/drink photographer should have in their kit?
A small hand towel to wipe grubby fingers!
Does your background in graphic design help your photography work?
Absolutely. Many creative disciplines have the same fundamental principles - composition, colour, balance etc. and my design background has been really useful in that sense. Also having worked in and with design/advertising agencies gives me a broader understanding of context and how photography works in relation to other elements within a campaign or final product.
We love your fun and quirky videos, can you tell us more about your moving image? Was it a natural development from your stills?
Some concepts I find lend toward video over stills and vice versa and I like having the flexibility to use both.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
Professional ice cream taster
What 3 things would you take to a desert island?
A bucket (to collect water, carry stuff, etc.)
Fishing net (to fish/hunt)
Large knife/machete (again to fish/hunt/chop and for self-defense)
Alexis is UK based and readily available for shoots and commissions. To find out more please email hello@lisapritchard.com!