Dark clouds gather around a Lara farmhouse on the July page of the Geelong 2020 Calendar. The man behind the lens, Chris Huby, speaks to Luke Voogt.
Tell us about yourself:
I’m 49-years-old, from Newtown and have been married for 14 years, with four kids. I’ve owned a line-marking business for 10 years and it keeps us very busy.
What’s your connection to Geelong?
I emigrated to Newtown from England with my family when I was three-years-old in 1975. I live two houses away from my childhood home, where mum and dad still live, which is great for our kids. Mum, a midwife from Ireland, has worked at Geelong hospital and St John of God. She still works to care for local newborns. Dad, a ‘scouser’ from Liverpool, transferred to Sacred Heart College to teach science and maths. In the 1960s my dad used to drive his sister’s boss’ band to concerts. He met the Beatles at a festival and they asked him to drive them to their next gig across Liverpool when their transport was unavailable. They were far from famous at the time, and had to scrounge around for a few bob for fuel.
How did you get into photography and why do you love it?
My year 12 photography teacher, Larry Davis, instilled in me a real passion for the art. There are two sides to photography. On one side you document a moment in time. It’s a journalistic view of the world and can be very powerful. On the flip side, photography is about art and creativity – this is what photography is for me. It’s all about light and texture; moody landscapes full of clouds, crashing waves, rocks, cracked cement and steel all shot during the crisp winter light. Getting out to take pictures helps me clear my mind from a busy life. It takes planning, as the light may only be right for 10 minutes or so. You head to a location, usually with a shot in mind; sometimes you get it, sometimes you don’t. If the epic scene doesn’t work out, you explore and sometimes you come away with something incredible. That’s the magic.
How did you feel seeing your photo in Geelong council’s calendar?
I was humbled and excited to have four images make the final 24 in 2019, with two appearing in the calendar. To have another image selected in the 2020 calendar is a real honour.
What do you like to do locally?
I love the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast for taking pictures. When I get time, I like to play golf or go watch the Cats with the family down at GMHBA Stadium. Local wineries are a definite choice for a long lunch with friends.
How are you coping with COVID-19?
I’m lucky as the construction industry has not slowed due to the pandemic, so I’ve been working as usual. My wife has had to home school the kids, so that has been interesting!
What’s something about you that people might not know?
I will claim that I played one game for Geelong, although my wife won’t accept that it counts. Big M little league, Cats vs Saints, Kardinia Park circa 1981, aged 10. I kicked a goal and got a photo in the paper taking down the opposition as the Cats came away with the win.
