‘Impossible’ Interview with Penny Felts

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How long have you been shooting Polaroid/Impossible film?

I started seriously shooting Polaroid films about two years, just before they went out of business. I started shooting Impossible film as soon as the first pack was made.

What cameras do you use?

I use every type of Polaroid camera that I can get my hands on. I have a ridiculous collection. The classic SX-70s are my favorite. I love the feel of them, the lens, how they open, the way look, and most importantly, the magical photos that they make.

‘A few of my favorite things’ – Penny Felts

Where do you shoot most often?

These days, I shoot mostly at an abandoned lumber warehouse. The light there is amazing. I use mostly the newest IP color films, but every now and then, I use some Polaroid or Fuji pack films.

‘The art of silence’ – Penny Felts

How would you describe your work?

Dreamy is the style I strive for. I try to have a story or project to shoot. I’m not great at just going out with a camera without a plan.

Tell us a little about the four works you have chosen as your favorites?

Honestly, I love the IP films so much, that choosing only four favorites was very difficult. I just tried to choose a variety. The first one; ‘A Few of My Favorite Things’, was shot with some of the very first IP film made. I absolutely love the creaminess of it. ‘During the Storm’, has always been a favorite of mine because of the colors and light. ‘Bee Keeper’, is another one that I am love with because of the tones. And, finally, I chose ‘The Art of Silence’ because I wanted to show the newest PZ film. I scanned this before it was completely done developing because I love the blue stage that the film goes through. Every photo I shoot is like a page in a diary to me. There are fun little stories that I get to remember when I see them again.

‘During the storm’ – Penny Felts

Do you have any helpful creative techniques or advice you would like to share?

I really love layering lifts. It is challenging and fun to figure out what you can put together.

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions/publications?

I created a little group last year called the 12:12 project, with the help of some of the most amazing girls I know. We are hoping to have a few shows around the world, and possible a book. It has taken most of my free time recently, so I have not made plans for anything personal.

Who are your favourite photographers?

Deborah Turbeville, and Imogene Cunningham are the first two that come to mind. There are so many though.

‘Bee Keeper’ – Penny Felts

What are you hoping for from Impossible during the next year?

The two things that instantly come to mind would be completely getting rid of the ‘divot’ from all future packs of film, and making the development time less. As far as new stuff, I’d love some new formulas that would mimic the look of some old favorites… softer, bluer possibly. And, I am hoping that the color 8×10 will be out soon.