JORDAN BUNKER

 In a world saturated with imagery, it can be a challenge to stand out. Still photographer and content creator Jordan Bunker has developed a distinctive style that elevates his work and has caught the world’s attention, enabling him to partner with and showcase brands that align with his singular vision.

Interview by Leigh Maynard.

Jordan Bunker wears CHANEL Le Lift Flash Eye Patches. Photographed by Max Ragan. Styled by Alton Hetariki. Makeup by Ninni Nummela using CHANEL Beauty.

Beginning his work in the age of social platforms was the starting point, and rather than a particular person or moment, Jordan says it was more of a feeling that brought him here. “I’ve been fortunate to be part of this wave of social media and experienced a lot of incredible opportunities in a front-facing capacity. And while that still involves hands-on work with the creative and production, the actual execution often involves others. So, I think being more active in photography was born from a frustration of wanting to have more control. Having said that, the outcome, whether I’m in front of or behind a camera, is always collaborative.” And while Jordan has no formal background in photography, his positive approach (and the internet) has helped him to hone his craft, though he also looks up to a few inspirational creatives who have helped to shape his style. “I’ve never traditionally studied photography, but we’re all one online tutorial away from learning a new technique or problem-solving. It’d be hard to pick out just one photographer, so I'm going to mention a few... I hope that’s okay. Lauren Bamford for their still life and playfulness, Joe Greer and his street photography and then Paul Hempstead for his work within fashion. Whenever their work appears on my screen, I know it’s theirs before I see the name above it.”

With slow fashion and sustainability one of the main focuses of Jordan’s work philosophies, the environment is a consideration in each new project that he undertakes. “I’m always thinking about it whenever an opportunity comes in. I have to look at everything through this lens. I’ve learnt so much when it comes to fashion and the huge problems we face, and I’d rather try and be part of the solution than adding to the problem. And that extends to his written work, which has taken a backseat for now, though he likes to think that one day he will return to it with his primary causes in mind. “I want my writing to explore the issues I’m most interested in, which are sustainability, responsible design and overconsumption. It’s a topic which isn’t going away, and we need to keep speaking up. Maybe I should follow the rest of the internet in starting a Substack?”

Jordan’s photography and content can best be described as a mix of striking fashion and still-life shots, visuals that have caught the attention of a global roster of brands and followers alike. He explains his process for both, “There are similarities between the two when I’m working. I’m always thinking about colour blocking, textures and what could add that element which makes people look twice. With still life, I like to take a little more time, slowing down and trying different arrangements, making those micro adjustments. When you’re working with just a product, I think there’s more consideration needed to elevate an image. Whereas when you’re shooting fashion and with a team and a model, the model plays a big part in lifting a photo.”

While much of the world today shoots on their phones, Jordan still prefers to use professional equipment to elevate his work and achieve the best results on all of his projects. “I own two cameras, both digital. I use a Fujifilm X100VI as the one that heads out the door with me most days and on my travels, and then I shoot on a Canon R6 when it comes to ‘work’. Both good cameras, both doing different jobs. Though I only own digital, if there’s scope to incorporate medium format photography into my work, I’ll jump at it.” Naturally, through his work behind the lens, Jordan is also often in front of it. “I wouldn’t call myself a model, but with the work I’ve found myself in, it often involves me standing in front of the camera. That being said, if a brand I aligned with wanted me to feature in a shoot for them, that’s something I’d entertain for sure.”

His content sometimes goes beyond the typical urban environment and into nature, as Jordan is quite the adventurer, taking his audience out into the hills and mountains. “I enjoy my fair share of walking and running, and I hope I make more time for that this year.” And as for a destination he’s loved exploring, Canada is up there. “It was on my list for a while and I managed to visit last September and had an incredible time. Some of the hiking I did in British Columbia was incredibly special. It might be cliché to say, but a camera does it no amount of justice.”

As for the future, Jordan explains that exciting things are on the horizon, and true to form, they are always planned with environmental intentionality. “Looking ahead, the influencer/creator space can play a big part in positive change. Something I am excited about this year is starting a new business venture with a friend, something that will look to act on my interests within the sustainability field.”