The Obtainer - 8/2/23, Wednesday
↦ Style Strategies: Photographer Justin Chung
Wednesday, August 2nd Edition
Today’s guest is responsible for curating my favorite coffee table book and has the most scrollable IG. We caught up with him to see why good jeans are a necessity and what brands are currently on has radar.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
StyleStrategies
How the Photographer Shops
If you’re a fan of menswear, stylish interiors and all-around cool people, you’ve likely seen photographer and director Justin Chung's work. His coffee table book, the Faculty Department Vol. 2, is one that I personally sit down with and flip through quite a lot, getting inspiration from the interesting subjects Chung captures in his signature warm, intimate and unvarnished style. The images show more than just what something looks like—they capture a feeling. The vibe, for lack of a better word. It's no wonder he's in such high demand these days.And it almost never happened. Before picking up a camera, Chung had other plans. “I was actually pre-med in college, but later on, pursued this love of photography as a career,” he says, almost in disbelief. “Perhaps my pursuit of being a photographer has made me appreciate other jobs ... I'm inspired by artists and small business owners who have carved out a career path, pursued their dreams and did it their way.” Influenced by vintage Ralph Lauren campaign imagery, he took another bold risk and moved from San Francisco to New York in 2011 to make a go of being a full-time photographer as a career. He didn't have many industry connections, but he surrounded himself with up-and-coming stylists, the designers of the #menswear era, and a slew of young editors in the fashion space, gradually finding his style and honing his craft. It probably helped that he's such a nice, relaxed guy and puts anyone in front of his camera at ease almost instantly.Whether he's on set with JJJJound or shooting on location for the likes of MR PORTER and Levi's, Chung's personal style leans on the utilitarian and workwear side. He's most comfortable in a chambray workshirt with well-worn jeans and a pair of Blundstone Chelsea boots. We caught up with him to talk about his must-haves, what he's shopping for lately and what he likes to splurge on.
What are some of your favorite subjects to capture?
I love documenting people at work and capturing the spaces within. Whether it's an assignment on a musician or a home, I am drawn to finding a way to capture a story of what it really feels like being there.
What’s a must-have item for any photographer?
I always carry a Filson tote bag. I love how it doesn't attract attention, and it's a great everyday carry to hold your camera and essentials discretely.
24-hour tin cloth briefcase, $395 by Filson
You released the first Faculty Department book in 2014 and the second followed in 2019. Should we expect a third volume?
My books are self-published, and I release them when enough stories are ready to be shared. It's a celebration of the studio visits and profiles I've collected over the years. I am working on my next edition as we speak and am excited to share more information soon.
105 standard denim, $335 by orSlow
Describe your style in five words or less.
Lived-in, calm, human-centric, intimate and thoughtful.
What’s one item that every man needs in his closet?
A good pair of jeans.
What’s one item that you cannot part with?
My Contax T3 camera.
105 standard denim,$335 by orSlow
What’s one item that you cannot part with?
My Contax T3 camera.
What’s something you’re looking to buy at the moment?
Been really into camping lately, so anything from Snow Peak. And I'm currently trying to save some money for a nice watch.
T3 camera, $2,498 by Contax
What’s something you’re looking to buy at the moment?
Been really into camping lately, so anything from Snow Peak. And I'm currently trying to save some money for a nice watch.
Field oven,$377.95 by Snow Peak
Three favorite brands, currently?
Kapital, Ralph Lauren and JJJJound.
Do you shop more online or in person?
I love being able to shop and try things in person, but online has definitely been my go-to lately.
What city has the best shopping?
New York and Tokyo are where I spend a lot of time shopping. I love getting a mix of things. From home goods, accessories and clothing, to even books and records.
Necessary extravagance?
There's nothing better than a nice, long, intimate dinner at one of your favorite restaurants with several friends gathered.
What’s something you buy in multiples or default to?
I tend to shop a lot from Ralph Lauren RRL and orSlow.
Indigo chambray workshirt, $245 by RRL
Which do you experience more: buyer’s remorse or regret for not buying something?
I really don't think I experience either—I find what I like and follow my instincts.
What’s one shopping hack that you can let everyoneknow about?
I don't know if it's a hack, exactly, but buy well-made products with intention. You won't be disappointed.
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
If you're looking to pick up some more nylon Baggies before summer is over, several colorways are now on sale for 30% off.
$65 / $44.99 by Patagonia
This sleek pour-over carafe is made of durable and heat-resistant borosilicate glass and makes up to six cups of coffee at a time. Use the lid to keep your brew fresh throughout the day.
$85 / $46 by Yield
These workwear shorts draw inspiration from classic painter pants. The hickory stripe adds a subtle difference from other shorts and would look great with a flowy navy shirt.
$93 / $51 by Stan Ray
An airy and boxy crocheted short-sleeve shirt is a summer essential. Crafted from a luxe wool-blend, the texture lends an appealing contrast layered under a suit.
$185 / $129.50 by J.Lindeberg
This summery seersucker popover is constructed from Indian Madras cotton for a lightweight feel and looks excellent with khaki chinos or washed, worn-in jeans.
$98 / $73.50 by J. Press
An oversized graphic poster is a great way to create an artsy moment for your home. This one from the famed design school Bauhaus adds the perfect touch to a living room.
$38 / $22.77 by Desenio
The best read from around the web.
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‘Affordable’ feels like some truly hollowed-out and corny s**t when it comes to clothes … A degraded concept that, while seemingly useful, has been drained of virtually all meaningfulness by people whose mission, knowingly or not, is to make you buy clothes you don’t actually want and won’t actually love.”
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Last night @mrporter & @loewe hosted a poolside party in Comporta, Portugal to celebrate the launch of #MRPORTERSummerStories.Nestled amongst the trees, guests were transported to a bohemian-inspired pool party where they enjoyed local cuisine and cocktails before dancing under the stars.
June 9
