Interview: Inspiration and How-To with Photographer Casey Jo

We interviewed Inkubook member and professional photographer Casey Jo to find out the inspiration behind the gorgeous book she made of her recent trip to Italy, as well as how she made her book’s layered cover photo (pictured at right).

Q. What was the inspiration for “Sogno dell’Italia”?
A. I have always had a connection to Italy. It is a place full of inspiration when creating photographs. My favorite time to shoot is at sunrise, when a city is just starting to come to life. I find the soul of the city at this time, when the footprints of life can still be seen from the night before; it is at this time I capture my best shots. However, that doesn’t keep me from wandering through the busiest markets and watching the bustle of the people and the harmony of the city come together as the day moves forward.

Q. How did you make the layered image for this book’s cover?
A. Using Adobe Photoshop I created a blank document to give my photo a background. After copy and pasting the photo to the background, I select the “Rectangle Marquee Tool” and created a rectangle in the middle of my photo. I then clicked “Select” and “Inverse” (this will allow you to adjust the outside area of the rectangle). Under “Layer” select “New Adjustment Layer” and using the “Channel Mixer Options” turn the outside of the photo to black and white leaving the inside color. At this point, you can leave it as is or take it a step further and click on your new layer to give the color box a border.

Q. Why did you make a photo book of this trip?
A. I decided to participate in a gallery show, and wanted attendees to see all of the photos I took, not just the few on display. I wanted a professional quality book that didn’t take a long time to produce. Having used Inkubook before, I knew I’d be happy with the quality and that my book would arrive before my show’s opening. Several people asked to buy the book on opening night even though it wasn’t for sale!

Q. How long have you been a photographer?
A. Since I got my first camera when I was a kid. Professionally for 6 years. I received my BA in Fine Arts from Herron School of Art in 2002. Aside from photography, I also paint, teach and show my work at galleries around Indianapolis.

Q. What do you photograph and what is your web address?
A. Most of my photography clients are from Indianapolis and the surrounding areas, as that’s where I live. However I have traveled for weddings and press junkets. I take a Fine Art approach to my work and enjoy photographing weddings, portraits and dogs, but the majority of my work is the more artistic side of the camera. My website is www.photosbycaseyjo.com.

Hillside landscape

Italian market

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