Jack Sommer
Who are you, and what do you do?
My name is Jack Sommer and I am a content creator. Photography, video, design, you name it. I’m 21-years-old, about to graduate from university. I run ID+ Studio, a personal platform and outlet that I’ve had since October of 2008, otherwise known as Imagination Detonation. I started Ludique Magazine in January of 2013 with a group of friends, a publication started to build a world around mobile photography. I also recently started a new project called Cinemisto, a homage to cinematography in my favorite films. I also have worked at places such as RESPECT Magazine, taking photos and making digital content, and at SOVRN STATE, involved with consulting and production within design and marketing. I’m constantly trying to push myself and my abilities, to learn more and more in all different fields. I never want to be confined in a box.
What forms of media have influenced you the most?
All types of media have influenced me so much. I mentioned with my Cinemisto project, well that was started because movies have been such a formative and important part of my life since I was a kid – and still are. Music plays an immeasurable role in my life – I am constantly listening, absorbing, and staying involved in the culture. Music not only has influenced my work, but just myself as a person in general. Same with movies. I’m constantly inspired by the photographers I know and have found in the Instagram community, who consistently are putting out amazing work everyday – which I try to showcase and bring together with Ludique. I am a producer of culture and content, but I am still very much an excited consumer as well.
What hardware / software do you use?
I’ve used Canon my whole life on my cameras, from a small point-and-shoot for my thirteenth birthday to a more advanced point-and-shoot and finally the digital SLR level. My iPhone is the exception to that Canon rule, which I tend to use when I don’t have my bigger camera on me and is great for capturing a lot of moments too. I use a Macbook for computer based creations, Lightroom for photos, and Photoshop for designing. I previously used Final Cut for video editing, but now I have made the switch to Premiere Pro.
What would be your dream creative setup?
In terms of creating on a computer, I mostly make things in my bedroom. This is where I feel most comfortable. Sometimes at school I’ll go to the library for a more secluded and quiet space to work and think.
When taking photographs, the best setting is a new setting. I thrive while taking photos in places I haven’t been before. I get really happy when there’s sharp light or great color around. I went to Europe last year for Study Abroad and was in heaven – shooting across multiple countries over there.
