Contact Information

Email: Jon@jonathanwbeal.co.uk 

Phone: 07896773908

Blog: http://blogbeal.blogspot.com/

Views and Influences 

My key influences in documentary lie within photography. I have studied to great depths the work of Judith Joy Ross and Sally Mann - two photographers who I feel have more in their portfolios than any documentary 'film'. The importance and strength of the still image remains a more potent manipulative device for me. Ross' study 'Living With War' has actually shaped the way in which I shoot my photos. The detail in faces goes deeper than image quality or resolution; there is something truly haunting in the portfolios of Ross. Sally Mann's work revolves around the home and the power of people. As well as the emotional intensity I take from these works, both photographers use Large Format shooting styles and equipment; which I one day hope to take on as a hobby and tone my own negative plates and prints.  I currently shoot 120 medium format and 35mm.

In terms of moving image, My favourite documentary is Dig! by Ondi Timoner. I love and acknowledge the fantastic way in which a failing, drug ridden and party fuelled band is juxtaposed with the work of a fellow indie band who become rock music superstars. The way in which friendships are broken by commercialism and the need for a definitive 'image' created by the greed and exploitative expertise of record labels allows the film to explore not only music; but lifestyles and jealousy too.  Roger & Me is also one of the documentaries that has allowed me to further explore my own understanding of the truth and what is perceived to be 'true'. Roger & Me follows Documentary maker Michael Moore around his home town of Flint, Michigan. Moore uses the documentary to sculpt and design a smear campaign against General Motors; the company he feels has destroyed his town, tearing out its' industrial heart in favour of cheap Japanese manufacturers. Moore is to be taken in a heavily skeptical sense with all of his work - I do, however, respect this piece for its emotional intensity; which Moore has very ingeniously used to manipulate audiences consistent of people like me; those who have never been to the US, and moreover, those have never heard of Flint, Michigan.