Friends, youth and ephemeral moments with Jozef Ezra

Jozef Ezra, a photographer that loves to shoot women simply because; ‘they are foils to himself as a man, and each individual is solitary, singular and rare.’ While it’s rare to find a photo of himself he isn’t absent, merely hiding behind the lens of his Contax. Beautiful feminine curves, emotions, shadows, abundant nature, freedom and individuality are all radiating from his works. He personifies the female gaze, studying every detail, showcasing the beauty and poise of his subjects.

Interview by Eva Davidová

What camera/cameras do you have and love to shoot with?

I was very fortunate to have all my gear stolen a year or two ago. It allowed me to rethink my aesthetic and simplify it. The insurance check eventually would have covered it but I had already rekindled my lust for the only camera that wasn’t on me a canon ae-1, which I later supplemented with a contax 137 MA because I love the zeiss lenses.

Where in the world are you currently based at?

I am based in humble salt lake city, USA it’s a terrible place please don’t move here it’s my selfish secret.

Favorite spots to currently take photos at?

I must acknowledge and express gratitude to the first nations who have been custodians of the land I love for generations. Utah is home to both overwhelming and diverse scenery. I frequent the forest and desert until winter when I hunker down into those white bunkers called studios.

Describe your personality in three words:

Funny Satan (Anchovy if you must have a third)

Any song you’re playing on repeat nowadays?

Complicated by Olivia O’brien

“I’m going to go against the grain here and reduce all of us to objects.”

When it comes to your photography, what do you most enjoy taking photos of?

André Bazin wrote that art emerged from our desire to counter the passage of time, it follows that I try to shoot my friends, youth and ephemeral moments. Within that framework I shoot a lot of women simply because they are foils to myself as a man, and each individual is solitary, singular and rare. Apologies to my own sex.

What’s the craziest photoshoot you did and why?

Snakes in tubs, trespassing in NYC, Stylists threatening to sic their father (the lawyer) after me, another one (a father) offering dental work to models… what is crazy are the normal ones.

What does sensuality mean to you?

I’m going to go against the grain here and reduce all of us to objects. We are all a commodity. I think sexuality shines and shimmers with scarcity, and nothing is more scant than being oneself. Dr. Seuss nailed that one on the head there is no one alive youer than you. Dr. Seuss was sensual as fuck.

Do you usually plan your photo-shoots ahead of time or are you more of a spontaneous photographer?

I plan with my heart but shoot with my mind. I guess that’s a little bit of both.