Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Who are you :
My name is Oz John Tekson, the owner of Photone Photography. I studied graphic design at the university and worked in advertising at multinational companies for over ten years. I worked as a senior art director for brands such as Nokia, Philips, Peugeot, Guerlain, and Coca-Cola. I have a PhD in visual communication; and also taught design and photography related courses in three universities and in a college for 16 years. I’ve been shooting for 20+ years.
Your current job :
I am a freelance graphic designer and a photographer. I still do visual related workshops.
In which city are you located?
I am located in Toronto. Time to time I go to New York; one of my favorite cities. Lastly, I did some work in Europe, which was a great experience.
A word to define what kind of worker you are :
I come from a German education system that I am grateful and proud of. So, I value discipline and punctuality. I can say that I am a hard worker and well organized all the time. I pay attention to things and to details most people don’t even notice. So, I am more a perfectionist rather than a pragmatist.
What tools are essential to your life (app, software, etc..)
I come from the analogue era of design and photography. I am not desperately attached to the digital technology. I can work and produce work under all circumstances. I can even produce and take pictures with a camera obscura : ) However, I appreciate and use the latest tools that the technology offers us. I am not a Luddite.
What does your office space look like?
I share a studio with an artist friend of mine in Junction, Toronto. For the computer work and the post production I prefer working at home in my home office.
What kind of music do you listen when you are working ?
I am an amateur jazz musician, too. In general, I listen to contemporary jazz, rock or classical. However, while working I prefer something that doesn’t cry for my attention too much. I am not good with pop-culture and its productions though.
Do you have a way to organize your day to maximize your work ?
No.
What tips would you give to improve productivity ?
Having different interests and time for them; and a brain not disturbed by pre-occupations.
You’re better than your colleagues to :
what?
What is the best advice anyone has given you ?
Some people tried to give me some advice in the past. I don’t think that I am good at getting and following them.
What is your best tip for saving time ?
Being organized.
What is your routine start and end of the day ?
Having a breakfast and checking out my e-mails. Going to the bed.
Aside from your computer and your phone, what gadget can you not go without?
I already don’t use a cell phone. I have one, but I only take it with me if I am going to meet with somebody or waiting for a call. Hmmm… maybe, my small Fujifilm camera—not always, but most of the time it’s with me.
http://www.modelmayhem.com/photone
https://www.facebook.com/PhotonePhotographyToronto