November 03, 2009
aussies in new york week: photographer lucas allen
It's often said that New York is a tough town. So if you get signed on the spot by an agent, it's a testament to you and your work. That's what happened to Lucas Allen after he arrived in the Big Apple following an around-the-world trip. Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, Conde Nast Traveller and House & Garden have all similarly been impressed with his work, booking him many times over. Not bad for a boy from Melbourne who left his photography degree course at RMIT after the first year to begin assisting. Lucas' work has also been included in solo and group exhibitions.
Which five words best describe you? Male, honest, selfish, workaholic, visual.
What path have you taken to arrive in New York? I spent 10 years working in Melbourne shooting for my own business, after assisting photographers like Greg Delves and James Cant. My partner, Ali, and I then did a round-the-world trip in 2005 and met with agents in Paris, London and New York. We loved New York and my agent here offered me representation on the spot, so we came.
What's your proudest career achievement? I really loved having my portraits of Aussie fashion designers used on stamps.
What's been your best decision? Backing myself to do well enough in a bigger market like New York.
Who inspires you? I love the photography of Stephen Shore, William Eggleston, Walker Evans, Richard Avedon, Tim Walker, Paolo Roversi, Nick Knight, Martyn Thompson among others.
What are you passionate about? My family, art, music.
What do you love about New York? I love that I can walk out the door of our apartment and have an exciting experience every day. The accessibility to everything and the feeling of being in the centre of the world. New Yorkers.
What's the best lesson you've learnt? Valium and red wine on the flight back to Australia works wonders.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Caravaggio, incredibly talented and a total rogue as well.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? I would love to be a dad one day.
What are you reading? The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan, but only over Ali's shoulder because she isn't finished it yet.
images lucas allen