FAQ

Benjamin Gell is an eighteen year old Graphic Designer and Photographer from the North East of England. He has just passed a National Diploma in Graphic Design with Straight Distinctions and is progressing to University to study for his Degree in Graphic Design.

How did you become interested in Graphics?

Honestly, I became interested in it before I even knew what it was. I began playing around with a trial of Photoshop I had when I was about 11 or 12, and because I’d always been interested in Art from such a young age, it seemed as though this was just another tool to create digital art. (Although looking back at it now you wouldn’t think so! haha!)
I then went on to basically use it more and more and became interested in all aspects of Graphics including web design, creating my first personal site at breathenomore.org which eventually ceased to exist, although it is being reborn in this site as my personal portfolio.

What About Photography?

Photography’s always something I’ve been interested in, it’s been in my family for at least three generations, my Grandad was a Professional Photographer, which influenced my own Dad, who is constantly snapping away, which became how my Dad started teaching me every now and then about basic rules of photography. Finally, when I started my National Diploma at college, it was paired with an AS/A2 in Photography which enabled me to use a wide range of techniques and gain further understanding in the subject, such as the History of Photography, using Chemicals and Photograms, etc.

Who Has Influenced You Most?

I’ve always been interested in Art so I do have a few favourite artists, such as Frieda Kahlo and I love the work of Michelangelo. I’ve recently been very impressed with the work of Eduardo Recife who’s mix of hand rendered and digital techniques really stand out. I also love the work of David LaChapelle and Annie Leibovitz, who’s work should need no explanation!