At just 15 years old, Isaac Savage has already established himself as an accomplished photographer, earning international acclaim even and a Landscape Photographer of the Year award. We caught up with this talented young Yorkie to find out what makes our city so snappable…
Hello, Isaac! How long have you been taking photos, and what is it about photography that you find so appealing?
I’ve been taking photos since I was about nine, but my interest really started when I saved up to buy my first proper camera, a Nikon D3300, which I still use now! What I like best about photography is the ability to look at the world around you differently. York is such an interesting, inspiring city with endless possibilities. I love the historic buildings, unusual quirky streets and little snickelways. I love being able to capture this beauty in the quiet and stillness of the early mornings, which for me, is the best time to be in York. Mornings offer so many opportunities – not only is the light ideal, but you notice the small details and unusual angles – like a reflection in a puddle, or a blooming flower that perfectly frames a subject. Many people just walk straight past these things during the busyness of daytime.
You’ve taken some great snaps of the city, and won a Landscape Photographer of the Year award for your photo of the Minster. Do you have a favourite local landmark to photograph?
It’s hard to say, because York is filled with so many beautiful subjects and landmarks. Winning the Landscape Photographer of the Year 2023 Youth Cityscapes category for my photo of York Minster (taken from Chapter House Street) was a massive highlight. My photo of the iconic Bile Beans sign with the Minster in the background has become one of my most popular photographs. I also love The Hospitium in York Museum Gardens (in spring, the tulips in the foreground make for a really good photo). Another favourite is Lendal Bridge, and the shadows it casts onto the pavement in morning light. I once won a local competition for a photo of The Hospitium, framed through Lendal Bridge in a warm golden light.
You held your first solo exhibition last year, and your work is displayed in various locations around town. Where can our readers currently see your snaps?
I currently have my photos up in Bailey’s Café & Tea Rooms on Museum Street, Palormade on The Shambles, and Sojo’s Café & Bar in Acomb. I’ve just had an exhibition of 25 of my images on display in the main corridor of York Hospital. Having been a patient there myself, it felt good to be creating a calm, joyful environment to help staff, patients, and visitors feel a bit more relaxed.
Visit Instagram: @snapshots.by.isaac, Facebook: Snapshots By Isaac, or www.isaacsavage.photography to see Isaac’s latest work.
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