Jonti Wild - Make and Model
In three short years, Jonti Wild’s laid a fast track to acclaim that stretches from small town NSW to the heart of LA.
© Jonti Wild
Mittagong’s Jonti Wild is living proof that life begins outside of your comfort zone. After a stretch as a professional upholsterer, he finally faced and conquered an ailing self-worth by entering the world of modelling.
It was modelling that further fanned the flames of his youthful fascination with photography, transforming a lifelong hobby into a fledgling career. Enigmatic self-portraits drew the attention of the not only the social mediasphere, but also notable folk who would hand Wild the keys to doors to new and exciting places.
While continuing to refine his aesthetic along the line between vibrant and grungy, Wild keeps looking to chart new territory within and beyond the world of fashion and culture. He makes bold moves, unafraid to test both his own limits and the expectations of his growing fanbase.
Here, we discuss those moves and more.
Do you remember your earliest interaction with a camera or memory of photography?
Well, I don't remember this exactly. But I have footage of the first photo album I ever made - when I was six. I was just taking photos of my cousins and stuff like that. I was in Scotland, Ireland, and in the Northern Beaches in Australia. And I just always took photos of my family members, and random things around the house that I found interesting.
© Jonti Wild
And that was on film?
Yes. My mum lent me her vintage Nikon. And I was super intrigued about the fact I could freeze time with this device – it felt like I was a magician, or suddenly had this superpower.
Did you have much interaction with photography throughout school?
Yeah. So, I was heavily influenced by Tumblr. I loved the whole aesthetic - the grunge, the surf and skate lifestyle. That was something that really influenced my photography. And I was always taking photos of my friends, around the beach and at school, whenever we'd hang out or go on little adventures. Throughout my teen years, every morning, I'd go down to the beach and I'd take photos of seascapes and landscapes. I lived in like a small country town.
In the Southern Highlands, yes?
Mittagong.
Nice area.
Yeah. Just a little too quiet for me!
Do you enjoy going back there to see your family?
Yes, but only for a short time. I get anxiety because there’s not much going on at all. I want to be working on projects and there’s only so much you can do there until it becomes Groundhog Day.
Can you tell us a bit about the journey from capturing beachscapes and surf culture to your first professional gig? I read that you were an upholsterer?
I did upholstery and furnishings for nine years. Had my own business for seven. After I left high school, I went straight to photography college for two years, but failed because I sucked at the theory. I was only 13 when I left school and suddenly, I was in class with year 12 and uni students and even full-blown adults. I sucked at handing in assignments. I excelled in the practical stuff, but when it came to theory and the business side, my young angsty teen brain just didn’t want to do any of that. That stuff was boring. I just wanted to take photos.
Understandable!
So, I left college and got into upholstery. Then I started my business. But on the side, I still pursued my hobby and photography and took photos of friends.
At some point, I was going through a really rough period with my self-worth. I was just getting really depressed and I wasn't happy. I slowly lost passion for upholstery. I needed to do something to build up my confidence. So, I began modelling. I put together my first portfolio so I could get signed by an agency. I paid someone like five grand to do it. Afterwards, I was like: I literally could have taken those photos myself.
Anyway, I got signed by an agency, while at the same time taking a lot of self-portraits. That’s when I began getting traction on social media. People were saying “I love these photos. Can you do some for me?” I agreed and ultimately turned my upholstery studio into a photography studio. I started attracting clients, collaborated with models and musicians. Then, this musician with a big following hit me up. I did a photo shoot with him in my little studio, and it went really well.
He loved the images so much he offered to fly me to Byron Bay where we spent the entire month shooting. Two weeks later, he said “yo, I want you to travel the world with me. I’ll pay for your flights and accommodation.” Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity. I got rid of my upholstery business and started travelling the world.
Taking photos?
Taking photos of him and collaborating with other artists too. Then I touched down in Los Angeles, and that’s when things really started to take off.
While travelling the world, was he paying you for the work, or was the payment in the form of flights, accommodation, etcetera?
The latter. I left Australia with negative 50 cents in my account, so it was very, very scary. But I trusted him. He became a really good friend of mine.
How long ago was that?
Just over a year ago.
Wow. So, it’s been a quick rise! And do you think that the modelling and the photography has helped with the self-worth issues you mentioned?
100%, I am a completely different person to who I was two or three years ago. My friends can't believe how much I’d changed in such a short period of time. I realised that some of the people I used to hang around we’re holding me back from reaching my highest self so it was time to rethink who I allowed in my circle. Toxic people can be like leeches that suck your energy and don’t give anything back — and I knew that if I was going to give my new life a real shot, I needed to make the switch.
Looking at your Instagram, there's a really stark difference between the photos you were taking at the beginning and those you take now. Your shots are now a lot more “out there”?
I get what you mean, they're a bit riskier and somewhat dangerous so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for everyone. I tend to find inspiration in things that give me an adrenaline rush; but with that being said, it’s important to work with professionals.
I also found different people to inspire me, took bits from everyone and created my own thing over time. To me, a great photographer is someone who can enhance the features that make someone unique and create their own aesthetic. It’s important for me to help artists express themselves and I believe I can translate that through photography.
Jonti’s old style of work:
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
Jonti’s new style of work:
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
Do you do a lot of post-processing on your photos these days?
Yes and no, it depends on my how I’m feeling. With some images it’s pretty simple and I leave them as they are, with a little bit of editing. I do really like how you can completely change an image in post, or enhance how it felt being in that moment.
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
Do you still have to worry about finding clients or work?
Not really. Sometimes there’s a dry month, but I’m financially stable. Especially because this big rock band hit me up for touring and doing a bunch of work for them and it pays very well. Then, I get like campaigns and stuff from brands, random clients. I don’t really have to worry too much. If I go into a different country, because I have a following, I can put up a story on Instagram and say: “hey, I’m here. If anyone wants to book me, I’m here”.
And how much has social media played a role in your success over the last two or three years?
A huge, huge amount. In the beginning, it was Tik Tok. I got some traction, people started noticing. Then I focused more on Instagram and posting reels and trying to come up with my own trends. I tried to stay away from looking at other people’s content and trends and stuff, because them I just don’t want to follow it. I don’t want to be a sheep. I just want to do my own thing. But yeah, social has definitely skyrocketed my career. I’ve had videos blow up, and then get a bunch of people following me and wanting work from me. Without social media, it would have been harder for me to get noticed, and get clientele.
Many social-based photographers these days leverage their look or persona. Do you think that being a model has helped your career and that your persona is essential to your craft?
I think I learned a lot and gained confidence in modelling that I brought back to my photography. Photographers would take the time to talk to me – get to know me and make me feel comfortable so that I’m not nervous. I think that really helps in attempting to capture someone’s emotions and authentic self. So, they’re not, like, hiding.
Also, everyone loves an Aussie. In terms of my persona. Showing people the behind-the-scenes aspect on social lets people know who they’re hiring and how that person works and acts. If you’re a photographer and not showing yourself or how you work on social, people might question that, you know? I feel like knowing who a photographer is as a person and what they look like, helps a lot.
I read that you once used a fish tank as a camera housing?
Yeah, for that shoot, we wanted an underwater look. But we didn't have much money and I didn't want to go fork out a couple grand for water housing. So, I came up with a clever, not-so-clever idea of putting my camera in a fish tank and then dipping the fish tank into the water so I could get under the water. Very risky.
Was it sealed up?
No. Very dangerous. Camera was not insured. Lots of risks involved but the results came out pretty sick. I basically held the camera down, pressed on the bottom of the fish tank and made sure the fish tank didn’t overflow with water. We got a nice, deep tank.
Did the camera get wet?
No. I was very careful with it!
Outside of your stunt photo shoots, how do you manage to stand out in this oversaturated world of content creation?
I love to show behind the scenes. Sometimes, behind the scenes does way better than the actual photos. I’ve kind of branded myself as well, where I’ll just wear black and then I’ll wear a little scarf thing. I get recognised in public places every now and then and I think that’s a big factor. It’s not something that everyone wears.
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
Was that a conscious choice?
Honestly, it’s a bit of both. I’d probably wear it anyway; but I’m also aware it’s a strategic choice to wear things that make you recognisable for social media.
In your photography and your persona, do you consciously think of things that will stand out on social, or just follow your instinct?
I don’t dress to follow trends, I dress based on how an outfit makes me feel. I’m trying to brand myself in a way that just screams my name. I’m still developing my own style. In photography, heaps of people tell me that I have my own style, but personally, I don’t know. I go through Instagram and see a photo and I’m like: “oh, such and such took that”. Like, I know who took that photo even without looking at the name. I’m still in the development stage of that... but my girlfriend would definitely disagree with me haha!
It's good to be aware of that.
I’m just trying to brand myself.
And when it comes to reels and stories, do you put them together yourself?
Yes, I edit them all myself. I just use my mobile phone. It’s easiest and a very powerful tool. Super quick and convenient.
On one of those apps?
Yep! Slap it all together. I’ve found myself a system that’s super quick and efficient. I just think the most important thing is starting off with a bang and ending with a bang – with something that makes you want to watch it again. The first few seconds are very important.
Are you getting more into video?
I’ve dabbled in a lot of video. I’ve got my highlights on Instagram. I’ve made a few short films. I used to challenge myself – I did a two-week challenge of making a short film every day. I love cinematography, movies, and aesthetic-looking things. I’m slowly veering into video, but photography is my main thing and what I want to be known for.
What software did you use for those short films?
Final Cut Pro. In the beginning stages, I was definitely editing on my phone, and shooting on it as well. I did a few videos for clubs and bars in Mittagong and Sydney.
I don’t like being tied to one thing-- I don’t want to be known just as a fashion photographer. I like diversity and knowing that if anything is thrown my way, I can tackle it.
Do you have two or three tips to someone wanting to get into fashion photography?
First, I’d say focus on the significance of what you’re photographing; if it’s a fabric, experiment with how it moves and what silhouette it creates. It’s also important you don’t add too many bold elements in one shot or else it’ll distract from what should be the main focus... For example, if the main focus is the outfit, consider shooting it against a clean background with simple hair and natural makeup. The other elements should be complimentary - It could be architectural lines that lead towards the piece.
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
What about in terms of bringing the best out of a model?
I always set aside time before a shoot to have a normal, one-on-one conversation. Get to know them, make them feel comfortable. It’s very important to loosen them up. If they’re feeling stiff, I’ll get them to shake up a bit and get it out of their system. Sometimes, doing weird facial expressions or poses can feel super awkward and stiff—yet those usually make the most interesting shots!
Also, a big factor is putting on music that they like so they can get into the groove. That makes a massive difference! For example, if I played music that I like, they might bug out at that vibe. It’s very important to put out s**t that they really f**k with.
© Jonti Wild
© Jonti Wild
So, say someone was where you were three years ago and struggling with self-worth, what advice would you give?
I would tell them to explore different things. Step out of your comfort zone, even when it’s super hard because you can learn about yourself, and the process can be inspiring! I’m constantly trying to push myself and get out of my comfort zone, and it’s thrilling. Chasing your fears, even if it’s not photography related, will impact your mentality and life a lot. Facing your fears can make you feel so powerful.
Also, reaching out to other creatives. Ask them if they’d like to shoot or if they’re interested in a concept you’ve come up with and just play with different things. Try working with creatives who have different styles so you explore your own personal range as an artist - Network!!
If for some ridiculous reason, everything you’ve ever created is going to be destroyed, let’s say by natural disaster…and you can only hold onto one thing. Do you know what that would be?
I do. When I was starting my photography journey, my grandparents were my biggest inspiration. They always told me to follow what I’m passionate about and they’ve always introduced different kinds of art into my life. They’ve also always chased their own careers. My grandma’s an artist – she used to do catalogue art back in the day for things like tools. She’d illustrate the tools. Then she began doing art classes and painting and made that her career. That was all very inspiring to me because she loved what she was doing.
One day, I decided to photograph my grandparents in their retirement village. In my eyes, they’re just the coolest people. So, I dressed them up in skater wear and put knee and elbow pads on them. They’re holding skateboards, sticking their rude fingers up. It’s actually iconic haha! Everyone in my family has that photo printed somewhere in their house. Quite the family heirloom ha! That to me, holds a lot of sentimental value.
If we were to peek inside your gear bag, what would we find?
You’d find my Nikon D750 and Nikon Z 6. You’d find my NIKKOR 24-70mm and NIKKOR 50mm lens. My fish eye. Lots of spare batteries, lots of SD cards and a water bottle. Oh, and an emergency sewing kit.
You’ve been with Nikon since the beginning, yes?
I’ve never used a different camera.
What made you stick by Nikon?
As I said, mum has always used Nikon and I have a special relationship to the brand now because it’s what gave me my start. At this point, I could probably use Nikon in my sleep! I’m most comfortable with the features and layout of their cameras. They’ve become such a crucial tool not only in my career, but my lifestyle as well. In fact, I quite literally never leave the house without it. Ask my girlfriend.
Last question. Do you have anything that you’ve always wanted to do professionally? Any specific plans over the next couple of years?
I’m about to drop my first ever preset pack for editing photos, which I’m super excited about. I want to release some texture packs as well. A lot of aspiring photographers tell me they’re inspired by my work—but like I said before, I believe in going against the grain and creating art that is original and speaks to you. Therefore, I think these preset packs are a great way to pull inspiration from my aesthetic while making it their own. I’m really excited to see what my followers create!
I have a lot of career goals: I’d like to release a coffee table book featuring some of my personal favourite photographs, have my work displayed on billboards, work with notable artists who inspire me, have my art in galleries, or even have my own exhibition!
Considering how much you’ve achieved in the last year, those goals sound highly achievable.
I mean, I’ve already worked with my favourite band as a kid – Bring Me The Horizon. I used to go down the coast and listen to their music. My mates used to jam to them. And little did I know I’d be working for them a few years down the track!
Awesome.
Yeah, they’re super dope. I never would have imagined it. It’s a dream come true.
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