LCN Story: Photographer Jan J. Klos
Jan J. Klos (b.1984) is a Polish born photographer based in London. Specialising in portraiture and documentary, his work explores communities, societies and traditions. Day to day he works on commercial and editorial commissions. His most recent body of work Pubs of East London is a series of family portraits of the close-knit teams working in the East London’s public houses.
What new product, service, business system or project are you introducing to your practice and why?
I love traditional film photography and use it exclusively in my personal work. My work has mostly been in colour negative, so this year I decided to learn more about traditional black & white printing. The LCN programme at Photofusion was a perfect starting point for me to experiment and develop my skills in b&w printing.
What was the main motivation behind your application to the LCN programme?
London’s creative market is saturated with practitioners so you need to offer something unique to stand out from the crowd. Not many photographers can offer a hand-made print by the artist and I think this is a very special skill to have in our digital age. Having also attended a colour printing course with Nick (Photofusion’s master printer and workshop leader) last year I knew this was a worthwhile opportunity not to be missed.
What is the most useful advice or tips you’ve been given on the programme so far?
Although I studied b&w printing in my first year at university, the printing course at Photofusion strengthened my knowledge on the subject. Nick’s knowledge is second to none. What I found particularly interesting was the technique of pre-flashing the paper before exposing it. It made prints stand out instantly. I also enjoyed Nick’s stories of times when he worked with famous printers. It’s been an enjoyable experience.
What plans do you have after participating with LCN?
I am currently working on a new series of exciting portraits of London’s drag scene and I hope to use my knowledge acquired on the programme to produce beautiful prints of these fascinating artists and performers.
