Exploring Place and Atmosphere with Elliott (Xin Li)

Meet Elliott (Xin Li), a talented photographer born in Henan, China, and now working between London and Shanghai. With a background in Business Computer and IT from Aston University and an MA in Photography from Kingston University, Elliott's work focuses on themes of roots, migration, people, and land. His photographs capture ordinary scenes and transform them into extraordinary narratives, inviting viewers to reflect on time, space, and human experience.

Interview with Elliott (Xin Li):

SWD: Your work often features a strong sense of place and atmosphere. Can you share what draws you to the specific locations you choose to photograph, and how these places influence your creative process?

Elliott: I am particularly drawn to unique locations, such as the raw, brutalist architecture of the Barbican Centre, the charm of retro buildings, or vibrant children's playgrounds. These elements add distinctive characteristics to my images. I love the clash of different colors and styles, as they provide me with a wealth of inspiration. I also enjoy creating interactions between models and the environment, often incorporating props to enhance the scene.

SWD: Your images have a distinct dreamlike quality. Could you tell us more about the themes or narratives you aim to explore through your photography, and how you translate these ideas into your prints?

Elliott: In my photography projects, I strive to capture my models in their natural or unconscious states. Through communication, I provide gentle guidance to help them relax both physically and emotionally. In the darkroom, I occasionally use anti-Newton glass by placing it under the enlarger's lens. The light passing through this glass is diffused, creating a soft, blurred effect that adds a dreamlike quality to the images.

SWD: As someone who spends a lot of time in the darkroom, what do you find most rewarding about printing your own work? How does the hands-on process of darkroom printing influence your final images?

Elliott: For me, reviewing my work multiple times allows me to carefully select images, and the process of cropping and colour correction enables me to re-interpret the photographs I've taken. Unlike browsing and editing digital images on a computer, the darkroom offers an unparalleled experience where I can view my work without any external distractions. This immersive process helps me reflect on what to avoid or improve in future shoots, such as choosing the right angles, lighting, and locations, or guiding the model's emotions more effectively. Darkroom printing also contributes to the development of my personal style; I believe the colours and textures it produces are truly unique and I became more appreciative of my own work.

SWD: You've printed many of your pieces at SW Darkroom. Could you share a bit about your experience working in our space and how it has impacted your work? Do you have a favourite project or print that you created here?

Elliott: The main reason I chose SW Darkroom is because I love its cozy yet professional atmosphere. I often have the entire space to myself, which allows me to focus intensely on my work. Additionally, the staff at SW darkroom are incredibly friendly and professional. They have a background as darkroom technicians from the Royal College of Art, and whenever I encounter any issues, they are always available to provide helpful and expert advice. In the past few months, SW darkroom has upgraded their film processing machines, which has further improved my workflow. The project "The Obsessions," which I collaborated on with students from Central Saint Martins, was completed at SW darkroom with continuous printing in the darkroom throughout the day.