By Brandis Ohlsson
English born New Yorker, Ben Watts, releases his latest photo book, “Montauk Dreaming” this month. Dreaming is a fun and vibrant homage to the photographer’s second home in the states and a look into one of the east coast’s most laidback surfer towns. In comparison to other city dweller getaways, like the Hamptons, Montauk is the hipper, younger option to beach and relax commuting distance to the city.
Shot almost entirely on an iPhone, the bold and bright imagery captured for “Montauk Dreaming” feature Watts’ friends and family having fun on the beaches of the oceanfront town.
‘Montauk is a candid, casual place,’ he says. ‘It has changed a lot, but now there are options. If you want it, you take it; if not, you stay at home and cook. Either way, it’s a magical town.’ Ben Watts
Typically you would find Ben Watt’s work in numerous international fashion magazines, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and many more. He started his career as a photographer by becoming an assistant after studying at the Sydney College of the Arts in Australia. In 1995, Ben Watts moved to New York City. A bit obsessed with urban culture, he began hitting the clubs and on the streets to find his inspiration. He eventually moved on to shoot campaigns for brands such as Nike, Jockey, Miller Light, Kodak, Tommyboy Records, The Gap, Sony Music, and many, many more. He has also contributed work to several New York City Group exhibitions, including but not limited to “Art in Photography” and is a regular Victorias Secret photographer. Not too shabby.
Ben is a regular contributor to AMFAM, shooting our more notable and star studded Dining in the Spotlight events.
“Montauk Dreaming” by Ben Watts is available for preorder on Amazon now & will be holding a launch at The Surf Lodge on Memorial Day weekend.
