TREATS Q & A: JOHN URBANO

Hey, John, congrats on your new limited edition photography book. How did it come about?

I met a girl named Niki Coyne whose love for riding horses inspired me to start taking photographs. These photos became the first collection in John Urbano 1. After shooting Niki I started to photograph more girls who were passionate about something in their lives—everything from soccer to sailing etc. The girls in this book were all passionate about something—that’s what drove the making of this book.

The whole book is in black and white and your black and white shots are very cool, sexy and dramatic. What’s your secret?

Everything in John Urbano 1 is traditional medium format black and white photography. It’s old school. Today everything is digital and treated to look like something it’s not. When you shoot film everything slows down a bit enabling you to connect with your subject matter on a different level. 

You self-published, right? Why?

I self-published John Urbano 1 so that I could control every detail from start to finish.

How long did the book take?

Ten years in total. Nine years of taking photos and one year working with creative director Roger De La Rosa on the book design.

Did you cast all the models yourself? 

I worked with long time friend Arri Taylor, who runs a scouting company. He’s introduced me to some of my favorites. Along with Arri I worked with a few agencies like Ford and Vision. Francine at Vision is the best.

What locales did you use? You seem to have gone around the world?

Locations included, US, Dominican Republic, Sicily, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Do you have a current muse?

My uncle Charlie. He’s 84, lives in Sicily, and can dance like no other.

Growing up did you have any favorite photographers?

My favorite photographer has always been Bruce Weber. He’s the hardest worker I know.

Is there anyone you haven’t shot you’d like to?

I’d love to photograph every American soldier that has fought for our country.

Finally, when are you shooting for TREATS!?

Hopefully sooner than later!

To buy John’s book go to www.johnurbano.com