GARÇONJON, PHOTOGRAPHER
Working under the moniker of GarçonJon, award-winning photographer Jonathan Daniel Pryce has built an extensive portfolio that goes way beyond fashion, documenting his subjects’ individuality in an authentic and inspiring way. Jonathan’s books and prints include an assemblage of bearded males in London and a showcase of masculine dressing in capital cities around the world, each image telling a story that is honest, raw and captivating.
GarçonJon is one of several creatives we have joined forces with to celebrate our 225th anniversary this year. We reached out to individuals and brands who share our passion for quality craftsmanship, heritage, innovation and community - artists and makers whose values reflect our own – and collaborated on projects to coincide with our brand’s milestone birthday. We asked Jonathan to photograph a series of artists across the globe wearing and experiencing Johnstons of Elgin’s Cashmere designs and chatted to him and his subjects about their sartorial and lifestyle secrets.
What’s your favourite city in the world?
I've lived in London for most of my adult life, so I feel a special connection to that city. It's constantly changing and always evolving. Every day, I'm presented with a new visual that inspires me. The trick is to keep my eyes open. Having said that, there's something captivating about New York. Whenever I go there, I feel an optimism and an uplifting energy. No matter where they come from, the city inhabitants believe in the city they live in, and that makes them New Yorkers. New York is full of personality and provides the freedom to truly be yourself.
Can you describe what Scotland means to you?
When I spend time in Scotland, I feel like I remember the true value of life. I know that sounds contrived, but it's true. I feel grounded when I'm back home. I've spent a lot of time there over the past two years, probably more than in the previous 10, and I remembered who I was. The boy in me that just loved exploring and spending time with people for the sake of connection. I remembered the joy of living. The landscapes are beautiful, the people are open and friendly, and I feel very fortunate that's where I'm from.
We’ve been asking creatives to style our products in their own way. How would you describe your own style?
My style is influenced by my profession. As a photographer, I need clothes that can traverse different environments. I can be shooting in a studio for half of the day and outside for the other, so I like layers and clothing with lots of pockets for batteries, cables and lens caps. I could be on my knees getting the right angle of the shot, so I need trousers with hardwearing fabric. Then later that evening, I could be going to an event, so I like soft tailoring. I would say I’m usually dressed in a way that is understated, classic and comfortable.
How did you feel walking around our weaving mill?
The first words that come to mind are heritage, family and quality – the connectedness of doing something you value. Pride, honestly and a sense of doing things right.
We encourage our customers to buy less and buy better. Is that something you can relate to?
Throughout my career, I've seen many brands come and go. Walking around the mill, I really get a sense of truth. The true sense of doing things in a sustainable way. An authentic way. I appreciate that deeply, and it reflects my own consumption habits – I try to be conscious and spend a little more on quality items that I know will last.
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