A snapshot of photographer Melanie Jenkins’ life, work and new book Take Me to Spain.
When did you first pick up a camera? I was eight and on a camping holiday around the South Island. My mum gave me a plastic camera that took 110mm film canisters. I was fascinated by getting the film developed. When the photos came back, they were nowhere near as good as I’d imagined.
How does your eye for composition translate to home? I see in vignettes and style smaller areas at a time. I try to keep everything working together but make exceptions for sentimental items.
Take Me to Spain blends food and architecture. Why? My father was an architect and when I went to exhibit at Fotonostrum Gallery in Spain, I fell in love with the architecture. My friend Claudia Kozub, who owns Indie Home Collective, researched where to eat and stay in Barcelona and Ibiza. Jo Wilcox was inspired to re-create the recipes.
I built backgrounds that reminded me of places I’d been, replicating the light based off travel photos.
What role does colour play in your life? Now that I live in a treehouse set among pōhutukawa on the water’s edge, I’ve filled it with natural colours to blend with the views of the trees and ocean.
Apart from family and career, what is important? As a fine art photographer, I put aside time to immerse myself in personal projects. In Auckland, I’ve been exhibiting with a group of photographers called Women’s Work.
What were your favourite finds on your recent trip to Spain? A heavy linen blanket, a book on Gaudi and a piece of timber loosely shaped into a bowl.
If we came to yours for dinner, what would you serve? My husband makes a seriously good paella on the barbecue and an adaptation features in the book.
If you weren’t a photographer, what then? There was never a second option.
On weekends, you’ll find me… Hanging out at yacht clubs since my kids are competitive sailors.
What do Spanish interiors do well? A textural, tonal look that has such warmth to it and is very relaxing.
melaniejenkins.co.nz