Jeremy Cohen on his Experience with NFT Photography
We’re thrilled to invite Jeremy Cohen for a bite-size interview with Them Frames. Cohen’s client list includes the likes of Adobe and Dropbox, and his images have been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times. He joins us to talk about his experience in the world of NFT photography, and why he minted his innovative photo series, ROOFTOPS.
When the pandemic came, photographers had to reimagine new ways to remain creative. There are only so many times you can photograph your family before you become tired and uninspired. To keep things fresh, Cohen took advantage of New York City’s famous rooftops.
During lockdown, rather than stay in their homes all day, some New Yorkers went to the peak of their apartment block and hung out. Some would chill, others would exercise. Whatever their activity of choice, Cohen was there to document it all.
People saw the series far and wide, and it brought the already revered photographer to the forefront of the industry. Coinciding with the series’ popularity was the rise of NFT photography. It made sense for Cohen to mint ROOFTOPS. and sell it on the marketplace. At the time of writing, he has 77 offerings, currently owned by 66 collectors. Here’s what Cohen has to say about his NFTs, and he also shares some thoughts on photography in general.
Them Frames: What attracted you to NFT Photography?
Jeremy Cohen: I saw the opportunity to sell my work to collectors. An opportunity I never felt like I had the access to in the traditional art world.
Them Frames: Why do you feel ROOFTOPS was the perfect collection to put on the NFT marketplace?
Jeremy Cohen: I felt like it was the most important body of work I’ve created to date, and I think it was different from most photography projects and could stand out in the space.
Them Frames: What has your experience been like with the NFT marketplace so far? Share the good and the bad.
Jeremy Cohen: The good: the feeling of people collecting my work because they truly feel connected to it and want to invest in me as an artist. The bad: seeing projects that are really really strong that don’t sell well, and in reverse, projects that feel lazy or are just not that interesting sell really well.
Them Frames: What helps you be at your creative best?
Jeremy Cohen: Early mornings, bike rides, jogging, meeting interesting people by chance, hanging out with friends that inspire me, and traveling to new places and experiencing different cultures.
Them Frames: What do you think NFTs mean for the future of print photography?
Jeremy Cohen: Not only do I think they can coexist, but I think NFTs can boost the traditional art market. An IRL tangible print can never be replicated–it’s a special feeling.
Them Frames: You have photographed many well-known names. Talk us through what it's like making a photo of someone that's likely going to be seen worldwide.
Jeremy Cohen: It’s exciting! Taking portraits of people is a very intimate experience, and when it’s of a celeb, it’s a little surreal since you’re just so used to seeing them on screens, but actually, they’re also just regular people for the most part just like you or me.
Them Frames: Which image or series are you most proud of (and why?)
Jeremy Cohen: Ahhh that’s such a tough question. But I’d say I love the tennis image of the guy practicing his serve. Roger Federer even retweeted it!
Them Frames: What's in your camera bag right now? Why does this work for you?
Jeremy Cohen: Sony A1 + 35mm 1.4 lens and 85mm 1.4. That’s my go-to setup, but when I’m shooting my rooftop series, I use a 100-400mm.
Them Frames: What are your current short-term and long-term goals in photography?
Jeremy Cohen: My short-term goal is to put together my next photography project (that I’m very excited about!!) out there in 2 months during NFT NYC. Long term goals are to: buy a house, start a family, and keep making art until I’m dead
You can enjoy more work by Jeremy Cohen by visiting his website. To see more of his NFTs check out his collection here.
