Interview with a film photographer from California -- Christopher Cucufate

Editor Note:

Christopher Cucufate is a California photographer who excels at film photography and takes his Simera 35mm lens with him in daily life. With the Simera 35mm f/1.4, he captures the streets of California he roams and the stunning landscapes where he finds solace. With six years of photography experience, he holds the belief that being a distinctive photographer is all about staying true to oneself. Let's take a closer look at him and how he regards Thypoch.

Personal Information

Thypoch: What's your job and where are you based?

Christopher Cucufate: I have been a manager at a restaurant establishment for about a handful of years and I am based in Los Angeles, California.

Thypoch: When did you get your first camera, and what attracted you to photography?

Christopher Cucufate: I got my first camera back in mid-2017 early 2018,  it was a Sony A7RIII. I was heavily inspired by Peter McKinnon during that time. I was watching every YouTube video he ever made and the ideas and thoughts behind photography. and to go and create images or tell stories which inspired me, so I learned a lot through YouTube when having no experience with photography.

Thypoch: How would you describe your photography style, and why you are here?

Christopher Cucufate:  The best way I can describe my craft in photography is to tell a story. Sometimes I'm able to accomplish that and other times it may be what I feel and what attracts my eye. At times I notice things more than another day so I try to photograph that moment and always improve that style, and I've been doing that ever since I picked up a camera and I’ve never given up on my craft from photographing in Disneyland to now on film. It's been a rewarding feeling and the time and dedication I've put into bettering myself.

Thypoch: Do you like shooting randomly or curating a theme beforehand?

Christopher Cucufate: Over time I would grab my camera and see what I see and create, but now and then I try to have a theme or an idea in mind until I'm happy with the results.

Thypoch: Why do you enjoy taking film photography and have you developed/scanned the film yourself?

Christopher Cucufate: Film photography came out of nowhere, it was an unexpected love I never knew I'd meet. It's really the simplest thing I'm able to do with film. Slowing down and appreciating the craft of it. I unfortunately haven't had the chance to develop but scan. I've tried in my early days and it wasn't the best, so I support film labs and I've been pretty happy with the results.

Thypoch: What do you think are the most important elements to contribute to a unique photographer?

Christopher Cucufate: To be a unique photographer is to be yourself, I know there are many types of artists out there within the street photography or car photographers, etc., but I think it's important to be inspired by others and appreciate the craft and take that and make it your own somehow but never claim to be better than others, always be humble.

Thypoch: One Sentence to describe your feelings or changes photography brings about if possible.

Christopher Cucufate: Eye-opening. It's my zen, it's my safe place, and a craft that helps me and has helped me through tough times.

Story with Thypoch

Thypoch: What's your overall impression of Thypoch?

Christopher Cucufate: I've been using the 35mm 1.4.  I've been impressed with the build quality and even the little touches the lens hood and cap are super nice and detailed. The quality I've gotten with the glass impressed me and I haven't shot down f/1.4, but the fact I know it's there for me is good cause whenever I need to shoot in low light situations which I haven't it then surprises me again! I've been using it for a solid month and it's been with me along the West Coast, and honestly, I would get all the other glasses and future glass this company makes.

Thypoch: What is your expectation for Thypoch's future development?

Christopher Cucufate: They don't drop the ball and only continue to strive. I am not worried about the relationship they have with the supporters but to only continue to improve their build. Pushing the line further.

Leica M6 + Simera 35mm f/1.4

Leica M6 + Simera 35mm f/1.4

Leica M6 + Simera 35mm f/1.4

Find Christopher Cucufate on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/24_street_films/

Shop Simera 35mm f/1.4 here: https://www.thypoch.store/