Henry Sandbank has a lifetime of experience in photography and film. Henry’s work is recognized for its strong graphic approach and clarity of concept. His bold, minimalist and sometimes subversive work appealed to those leading advertising’s creative revolution in the 1960s. In New York, Henry collaborated with Madison Avenue’s luminaries to create many of the ads that represent the essence of this creative revolution.
Henry later transitioned to directing television commercials. The print medium was succumbing to television and more and more of his clients urged him to take up the film camera. His commitment to clear, simple statements remained intact, even as the projects he was offered became increasingly complex. He quickly developed a reputation as a problem-solver and much of his best-known work is visually, beautifully simple, and yet technically, extraordinarily complex.
Henry produced over 1700 commercials, for companies such as IBM, Xerox, AT&T, BMW, Volkswagen, Volvo, Honda, Mercedes, Sony, Kodak, Nestle, Chanel, General Motors, and many other big name brands.
Today, Henry has returned to the more introspective art of still life photography. To view his portfolio and read his biography, be sure to visit HenrySandbank.com.
How did you become interested in art and photography?
At 13 years old, I knew I didn’t like formal schooling. I wanted to express myself creatively and did not have the opportunity to do so in a formal school setting. Bronx School of Industrial Arts is a high school that focused in on gifted kids who wanted to do something different. I was interested in photography and knew that they offered it. School taught me about the organizational aspect of photography, as well as helped me to develop my creative talents.
What type of training best prepared you for your career as a photographer?
The art school that I attended surrounded me with creative thinking. It was the perfect environment for a curious student like me to grow in. Art school also provided me with mentors which are crucial to any artist’s creative development. Mentors offer encouragement and support. If you can find a school that will provide you with an education in art and design as well as give you a liberal arts education, you will benefit tremendously.
What was an average day at work like for you?
There is no average day at work. It’s a daily challenge. Each day brought new problems to be solved and solutions to find. Because of this, I grew as a photographer both creatively and intellectually every day. Without challenges, you will never grow.
What did you like most about your job?
I never considered my work a job. I considered it an opportunity to get involved within my mind and my creative energy.
Were you were inspired by any other photographers?
I tried to be different then other photographers. I would be respectful of other’s work but I wanted my work to be less influenced by style, and express my own feelings. It may have been a naive way to work but it enabled me to progress and develop my own individuality.
Are there any photographers that you know who have been inspired by you?
Many photographers have told me that I was a great influence on them. I had many assistants throughout the years that keep in touch and have told me how much that they appreciated all that they learned while working with me. But I always wanted them to develop their own style and not be influenced by my vision.
How do you feel about the technological advancements that have been made in photography? Has the shift to digital photography influenced your work in anyway?
It doesn’t really affect originality or creativity. Digital photography is just another way to get your message across.
What advice do you have for others who are interested in pursuing a career in this profession?
Be focused. Have long term plans. Take your ego out of the equation. Find a mentor and don’t be afraid to go inside your own mind and grow each day creatively.
Struggle always creates and exposes solutions to problems. It also allows you to build confidence in yourself.
