INTERVIEW
October 4, 2024
LA EDITION
Photography by John Kayacan
Interview by Melanie Meggs
John Kayacan discovered photography at fourteen when he picked up his parents’ camera and began capturing anything that caught his eye. This early interest soon turned into an obsession, shaped significantly by his discovery of Robert Frank’s seminal book, The Americans. This transformative experience shifted his perception of the world, turning every scene into a potential photograph and sparking a passion for documenting the streets around him.
Immersing himself in the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, John found endless inspiration in the city’s sidewalks, stoops, and subway cars, developing a distinctive style with cinematic colors and soft frame vignettes. His dedication to capturing the beauty of everyday Angelenos, led him to art school and a career as a visual storyteller, creating a portfolio of work that reflects his unique perspective on urban life to provoke thought about what lies outside the frame.
John reflects on eight years of photographic exploration, acknowledging the slow, deliberate process that street photography demands. His work shows his patience and keen eye for detail, qualities that have helped him build a compelling body of work over the years. As he continues his art, John remains grateful for the chance to pursue his passion and share his visual stories.
In our interview with John, we explore his early influences, his artistic evolution, and his ongoing work as a photographer living in one of the most interesting cities in the world. Join us as we explore the mind and work of John Kayacan, a dedicated artist who captures the essence of urban life.
“My work has a very extensive focus on street photography, and I believe it aligns well with the concept of bridging documentary with fine art. This interview features an array of images that spans across 8 years of my work.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH JOHN KAYACAN
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Welcome to The Pictorial List, John! Can you tell us how growing up and living in Los Angeles has shaped your view of the world and your artistic vision? How did your time at art school contribute to your development as a photographer?
JOHN: Thank you for having me!
Growing up in LA, I was always inspired by the city streets and the scenes of everyday life. When I first started street photography, I wanted to capture moments that seem spontaneous and unposed, highlighting a variety of human experiences; from people at work, in transit, or simply existing in their environments.
I learned a lot at art school, the biggest lesson was that patience is the key to quality. I started my first long term project during my second year of college, and it taught me the importance of quality over quantity. Surround yourself with what you love so that feeling of inspiration will never leave you.
TPL: Tell us what it was about that moment you read Robert Frank's book The Americans, and what was it about his photography that influenced your perspective on your photography and life?
JOHN: When I first read that book, my entire perspective of the world changed. Everywhere I went I saw a potential photograph to be made. The simplicity yet sophistication of Robert Frank’s photography made me realize I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.
TPL: We all face challenges and obstacles we could not have foreseen, what are some of yours, and how did you overcome them? What advice would you share?
JOHN: My biggest piece of advice would be to be consistent and start off slow. Learn about what type of photography you enjoy doing and what sparks that desire to capture.
TPL: Who or what are some of your other major influences on your photography today?
JOHN: My biggest influences today would be Greg Gerard, Vivian Maier, and Richard Sandler.
Watching movies as well, I do tend to use wide angle lenses when doing street photography, which helps to keep that “cinematic” aspect.
TPL: What aspects of urban life do you find most compelling to capture in your work? How has your style evolved over the years, and what has driven that evolution?
JOHN: Hmm, I’d say the moments of everyday life in different settings, from street vendors and late-night diners to intimate family interactions and bustling markets. I try to use soft focus, moody lighting, and muted colors to give the images a nostalgic, almost dream aesthetic, the quiet beauty and diverse experiences within the everyday.
TPL: What are some of the key themes or messages you aim to convey through your photography? What do you want the viewer to experience from your work, what is their takeaway from their visual experience?
JOHN: My approach to street photography is heavily influenced by my desire to connect with my subjects and the environment, often working instinctively to capture fleeting moments. Try to observe and understand your subjects. It will allow you to catch photos that are both authentic and evocative.
Photography has become therapeutic; it seems the older I get.
TPL: How do you balance your professional work with your personal projects? How do you make the time to go photographing?
JOHN: Photography has become therapeutic; it seems the older I get. Makes me clear my mind and truly focus on what’s literally in front of me. So, making time for that is always a necessity.
TPL: What are some of your favorite places to photograph in Los Angeles, and why? Outside of home, where is your next favorite? And what city is next on your Wishlist?
JOHN: Hollywood boulevard would definitely be my favorite, unpredictable and always captivating. Feels like a whole new place every time I’m there.
My favorite place to photograph outside of LA would definitely be anywhere in Mexico.
I don’t quite know what’s next though, maybe somewhere still in California.
TPL: Is it impossible for you not to be constantly on the lookout for a moment to be captured?
TPL: What was the first camera you ever held in your hand, brought to eye, and released a shutter on? What is the camera you use now and your preferred focal length? Do you have anything on your Wishlist?
JOHN: My first camera was a Nikon d3100, I started at 15 with no actual understanding of how the camera's quality would affect the image, that came a little later.
The cameras I use now are a Ricoh GRiii and a Canon EOS R. My preferred focal length would be either 35mm or 28mm.
TPL: Are there any special projects that you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about? What are some of your photography goals?
JOHN: I’m in the early stages of my first documentary project hopefully get to start photographing for that soon,
My biggest goal in photography is to inspire.
TPL: When you're not creating your visual stories, what else will we find John Kayacan doing in his spare time?
JOHN: Spending time with family.
John Kayacan's work is anchored in a genuine love for the streets that raised him. His journey from a young teenager exploring photography with a simple camera to a dedicated visual storyteller reflects a commitment to capturing the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. With influences ranging from iconic photographers to the cinematic language of film, John’s work offers viewers a thoughtful reflection on the quiet yet vibrant aspects of urban life.
In John’s photography, Los Angeles becomes more than a backdrop; it is an ever-evolving character that shapes his artistic expression. As he moves forward in his career, balancing personal projects with his growing portfolio, John continues to approach his art with patience and intent. Whether documenting the lives of Angelenos or embarking on new projects, he remains focused on creating work that not only captures reality but also sparks thought and connection.
John’s story reminds us that photography is not just about the images we see but also about the unseen world behind the lens — the careful observation, the choices, and the stories waiting to be told.
