VOL 1 | Page 16-27
Cameras and Coffee?
While browsing Instagram, I came across some photographers who met up on Saturdays for photo walks in Detroit. I needed to learn how to get involved. I reached out to Scott Millington @sapmillington on IG. He appeared in most of the photos. He explained what it was.
During his explanation and my browsing, I noticed he was putting together something called Cameras and Coffee. "It's a series I run. I meet with a new photographer every time at a new coffee spot."
It's a series I run. I meet with a new photographer every time at a new coffee spot...
Scott Millington
He gets to know the photographer. They go for a walk together and take photos. It was a dope idea. It was a way to network, meet other people with similar interests, and get some photographs. He asked, "if I'd like to give it a try." I accepted his invitation.
THE MEET UP
So we met at Bodega Market, a small coffee shop in Brush Park. We both were a little late, but we made it work. We grabbed a quick coffee, took off down Brush Street, and started taking photos.
We didn't have a plan or agenda for what we were shooting, and Scott asked a few questions about my background, my goals, what I was shooting with, and more.
We will walk around the arenas and music hall...
Scott Millington
We moved to Woodward Ave. and got a few shots of Little Caesars Arena. A hockey game was starting in a few minutes, so a few people lined up for the game, which made for some great shots. We went to Fox Theatre, Comerica Park, and an incredible parking structure next to Ford Field.
Despite the weather being below 30 degrees, we learned about each other and got some cool photos. The great thing about shooting with another photographer is seeing a different approach. You get a feel for what others see, and it helps you get out of your comfort zone and try new things.
We even met another photographer with whom he recently took a photo walk. We all got to discuss his experience with Scott, what camera he used, and what area he prefers to get photographs. After our walk, Scott and I ended up back at the Bodega Market. We discussed a few of his plans and went our separate ways.
Who is Scott Millington?
Scott is a documentary-style photographer. He has his hands in several different ventures. Not only is Scott doing Cameras and Coffee and various exhibits with his photography. He has a project called Here is Their Story@hereistheirstory.
What is your greatest weakness?
Experience and education. Photography is something I am actively learning. I didn’t go to school for photography, so most of my learning comes from talking with other photographers, Youtube, and trial and error. There are times where this weakness can be a positive because it provides me the chance to learn and grow..
What Is Your Greatest Strength?
My greatest strength is the willingness to ask new people to collaborate. For my two main photography projects, a decent number of the guests are people I haven’t met before. If I didn’t have the drive to make these new connections, my series wouldn’t be as successful. These connections have led to friends and opportunities to grow as a photographer.
Why have you chosen this particular field?
Photography is something I have always been interested in. It started with me looking at other people’s photos. Then in 2018, I bought my camera after attending an event in Detroit where a lot of well-known Detroit photographers were present. Over time, I kept making new goals for myself, which has helped shape my journey in photography.
Why do you take photographs?
Capture moments. Every day there are new moments to be captured. These can be simple everyday captures, or they can be once-in-life moments.
What’s your favorite thing about Detroit?
There are many things I enjoy about Detroit, but my favorite thing is the sports teams of Detroit. I have loved sports since I was a little kid. Currently, our teams are not great, but I will still support them regardless. I like to travel to other cities to watch Detroit teams. One day, I would like to take photos for a local team.
