With Chris Boot, we talked about political engagement to create a more diverse world through his work experience at Magnum Photos, Aperture, and as an independent publisher. In this conversation, we explore the beginning of his career in London, working for a co-op selling photographs and developing Magnum’s presence in London and New York, and his work with Phaidon and Aperture. We discussed inclusivity in the photography industry, both in magazine pages and within companies, as he worked on at Aperture. He also gave us advice to clarify the purpose and narrative of the story we want to tell because if we find that clarity, nothing will stop us.
3’11 – He worked as a coordinator in a photo co-op and was part of a socialist community.
10’30 – Started working for Magnum as a salesperson with Neil Burgess.
17’15 – Became the director in London when Neil Burgess went to NY.
19’10 – Went to NY to find economic routes.
21’56 – The first book he worked on was a history of Georges Rodger.
30’50 – He returned to London, worked for Phaidon, created many books, and stayed for 10 years.
36’45 – In 2000, he started his own publishing house.
46’ – When he started at Aperture, they were considering stopping the publication of magazines and books, but he doubled the price of the magazine, made it more luxurious, with themes, and focused on social justice. It was a gamble.
54’ – He aimed to create a more inclusive company, both in the magazine and in the company itself.
56’30 – Income at Aperture at that time: 10% from exhibitions, 30% from sponsorships and grants (individual gifts), and the remaining from book and magazine sales.
59’25 – He moved back to London, got ill, and continued to work on books.
1’01 – Evolution in photography: social media. Before, there were no emails. You did things with people you could meet in person. Now it’s a tyranny.
1’04’10 – His advice for photographers and publishers: Clarify the purpose and narrative. If you find that clarity, nothing can stop you.
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