Depth of Field: Gary & Vivian Chapman
Gary S Chapman and wife Vivian Chapman’s goal is to help non-government organizations communicate with the public through stunning images. This is particularly important for NGOs working with disasters, or in areas of development. They are very good at it! Gary, originally a journalist for top rags like Louisville Courier Journal, brings a real photojournalist bent to his images. His images are dynamic and full of emotion, and bring the viewer to a sense of compassion. His client list is long, with names like GEO, Time, Life, National Geographic Traveler, and others. His stock work is represented through Getty.
This is the first time I’ve had a chance to interview a husband and wife team. Vivian, whose wonderful laugh permeates this interview, is described by Gary as the “brains of the outfit”. By having them both at the microphone you get a balanced sense of what it takes to run a business that takes you around the world.
Please visit Gary’s website HERE and his blog HERE.
[audio:http://traffic.libsyn.com/depthoffield/Gary_Chapman_DoF.mp3|titles=Depth of Field|artists=Matt Brandon and Gary & Vivian Chapman]
I have personally traveled to may countries with Gary and was in Pakistan with Vivian and Gary. They are amazing and I often have saw him come from behind the lense to simply weep with those who weep. They don't hold people at arms distance or simply view them as a great shot for suffering. Vivian has the ability to ask the most penetrating questions and Gary moves like a cat as he does his job. I have often looked at the photos he has taken and wonder when he did it.
As the President of an NGO I cannot recommend this team highly enough. I kind of cringe to do that as I want to make sure his time is not all used up so he can travel with SWI again.
Such a great interview. I love the approach here… figure out the kind of life you want to live and build everything around that.
The correct title of the book I mentioned is A Camera, Two Kids and a Camel by Annie Griffiths Belt, in case your listeners want to check it out. Thanks again for the interview!
I am always very impressed with each of these interviews! Thanks for the lining up some incredible talent so we can get a glimpse into their lives. I thought it was quite insightful listening to the balance between work and personal life while being passionate and committed to both. Thank you for sharing these stories and the stories of many unheard voices around the world through your images.
Vivian and Gary, I'm so proud to be related to you both, you will never know all the change for good you both have brought about in this world. I can only tell you about this 'domino' and words would never be enough. I love you both, keep doing what you are doing.
Matt- I've been an avid i-tunes subscriber to your interview series, and feel guilty for not leaving you some feedback till now! This has so far been one of my favorites, please keep it up!
-Adam
Thank you Adam for your kind words. Feel free to make any comments or suggestions anytime. I take them all seriously. Even suggestion on who to interview. Spread the word!
Gary, when you mentioned during this interview the Southwest Photojournalism conference it hit me — I've corresponded with you before on email! It was a while back, but cool to hear from you again in a fresh way through Matt's interesting podcast. I love that you travel(ed), when possible, with your wife and kids and even homeschooled.