Interview with Mark Sullo of pastpictures.net.
How did you come up with the idea to start pastpictures.net?
Past Pictures evolved from collecting snapshots and being a photographer myself. The idea took shape while talking with a friend who is a photographer and web site designer. He was interested in a medium format film camera that I no longer use. The timing seemed right to develop another format for these amazing images. A trade for the camera was worked out and I’m happy with the resulting design.
Why did you choose these photos?
I first look for a combination of elements that I look for in all photography: composition, light, tonality, expression, thoughtfulness, humor, dynamic, etc. I want a photo that has these aspects working cohesively with an interesting subject and sometimes without one. I use the same criteria to look for themes that I know collectors want…
Do you think that analog photography is more real than digital photography?
It’s more real in the sense that before digital photography most still images were printed. Paper is tangible and tactile. Analog put more emphasis on an original print. If you think of reality as something you can put your hands on, I think analog is more real as a rule.
Where do you find the photos?
Antique fairs, paper shows, flea markets, estates sales, auctions, eBay, etc. Also, I had a significant collection that I began many years ago.
Visit pastpictures.net!
As a collector I love Mark’s site. There are so many choice images, great compositions and it seems like the people are going to walk right off the page. I look forward to following his pic additions.