Julian Lennon not only impresses as a musician - he has also made a name for himself as a photographer. In his pictures, he captures unique perspectives and breathtaking landscapes. With an exquisite selection of images and detailed descriptions, his first photo book ‘Life's fragile Moments’ provides an intimate insight into Julian Lennon's world of thought. In an interview with Julian Lennon, the artist gives a deeper insight into his passion for photography and the creation of the photo book.

teNeues:
Celebrity photographer Timothy White writes in the foreword to the book "Life's Fragile Moments" that you first met in 1986. You had just completed your first album as musicians. When did you first become interested in photography?

Julian Lennon:
I’ve always been curious, whether that’s musically, or visually, or just about Life in general… I believe we all had a Camera in our hands as children, at some point, even the throw away ones! I guess it’s just the growth of those curiosities, as such… But behind it all, it’s about memory and emotions, about catching a moment in time, whether about your Life, or someone else’s or a situation, that you wish to cherish, or by which you wish to tell a story, or convey a message.

So, I can’t just say there was one defining moment, because I’m still curious, and no doubt there is much more to discover, and many more stories to tell...

teNeues:
When did pure interest turn into a passion and what happened next? Learning by doing? Did you have mentors?

Julian Lennon:
My ‘Passion’ for photography, is forever growing…  For the most part, I am self taught, as with every creative avenue I have taken & will take…. But I do watch a few Pro Photographers online, if I need to know something I don’t.

teNeues:
You have often exhibited photographs. When did the idea of compiling a book occur to you?
And when did you realise that it would be about "Life's Fragile Moments"?

Julian Lennon:
Indeed, over 40 Exhibitions… I’d always wanted to have a photography book. I tried on many occasions, submitted the idea to many High End Photography Book Publishers but they always came back to me with little to no enthusiasm, about the idea, until teNeues approached me, and I was overjoyed at the idea, as I’d been in the business of photography for quite some time, and this timing, just felt right… Regarding the title ‘Life’s Fragile moments…’  I think that title, cover every aspect of Life, Good/Bad, Happy or Sad… Every moment we’re alive, is precious…

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teNeues:
Photography and music are not the only areas in which you successfully live out your creativity. How do you reconcile all of this?

Julian Lennon:
I wake up, and get on with it all… Whatever needs the most attention first, is dealt with first. There’s no secret or mystery behind it. Obviously, if there are deadlines, that generally guides one’s direction.

teNeues:
We all take countless photos with our mobile phones every day. Snapshots without much sentimental value or artistic merit. In the introduction to your book, you write about the emotional pull and the urge to capture special moments and moments with the camera. Is there a ‘private photographer’ Julian Lennon and does he also take snapshots?

Julian Lennon:
What You see is what you get… Even with an iPhone, the picture I’m taking has to mean something to me, or is a story, or feeling I’m trying to convey… Some of the best photos can be  a ’Snapshot’.

teNeues:
You have travelled a lot in your life. Is there a destination that you would like to visit again and again? Or even a favourite place that you haven't had time to visit yet?

Julian Lennon: 
As I have said in the Book, Japan is one of My favourite destinations… A Lifetime is not enough, to truly understand & appreciate this Country , its people & its customs. But there are many, many countries I’ve yet to travel to… Especially in Asia… Bhutan being just one example…

teNeues:
Thank you for the interview, Julian Lennon!