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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.
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