Tony Fetters Explores The Beauty In The Mundane With His Photography Exhibition, Para//e/s

Longtime South Slope neighbor Tony Fetters leads busy life. When not developing promotional campaigns for cable television networks, the freelance creative director (and new dad) is traveling around the world with his camera, taking gorgeous photographs of things that many in our smart phone driven era would walk right past without a glance.

After recently spotting Tony’s photographs on display at OS Cafe, we decided to sit down with our talented neighbor to learn a bit more about him, his photography style, and what he hopes people will take away from his Para//e/s exhibition.

South Slope News: First of all, tell us a bit about yourself.

Tony Fetters: I am the shorts-wearing, world-traveling, wine-sipping, husband and proud Papa of a two-year-old child (newly adopted from South Africa) who lives just up the avenue from OS Cafe in South Slope.

What brought you to South Slope, and how long have you lived in the neighborhood?

I have lived in South Slope from 2006-2008 and 2012-present. I was drawn here by the lack of dress code, chain stores, and formulaic restaurants.

Congratulations on your recent adoption! What is the best thing about being a parent in the Slope area? And the most difficult thing?

The best thing is that practically everyone is a parent – and that means shared experiences come easily – forming a strong sense of community.

Navigating The Land of SUV Strollers can often be troublesome.

When did you first become interested in photography?

Since my teenage years I’ve had a keen eye for design — graphic, architectural, typographic, product, etc. Photography brings all those elements together for me.

Who are some of your favorite photographers? What do you like about their work?

I really enjoy architectural and landscape photography. My favorite photographers capture the emotion of the moment — and guide me to understanding that place at that time.

When you go out with your camera, do you have a plan of what you want to shoot, or do you prefer to live in the moment and see what you can discover?

I never have a plan. I just open my eyes and try to discover things most people walk by every day. I work quickly and click the shutter as close as I can to first glimpse.

What was your inspiration for Para//e/s?

I wanted to reveal the unique union of disparate imagery — Uncover connections that would normally be missed. As with any presentation, I wanted to capture the interesting shapes, textures, and personalities others pass by.

How long will the show at OS Cafe run?

Two months.

What do you hope neighbors take away from Para//e/s?

A reminder that we pass by the most interesting things every day. We need to keep our heads up — and our iDevices down — and realize what we are a small part of.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Your life’s goal — Grow before you go.

Meet Tony at OS Cafe (535 6th Avenue, between 14th and 15th Streets) this Saturday, March 21, from 4-6pm, for the opening reception of Para//e/s. Admission is free, and credit cards will be accepted if you would like to take a photograph home. For more information, email tonyfetters@gmail.com.