For Rob Tennent, creativity comes in many forms. Most well-recognised for his photography, Tennent also dabbles as a model and is a published author of several photography books – Come Back to Bed and I’m Going to Miss You – both of which showcase his incredible affinity to capture people.
Since developing a passion for photography at a young age, Tennent has since gone on to collaborate with an array of Kiwi labels such as Mahsa, Paris Georgia and Wynn Hamlyn on multiple occasions, and more recently, shot campaigns for Aje as well as editorials featured in Vogue Australia.
The Cambodian-born creative has recently relocated to Sydney to continue expanding his network, having lived in New Zealand for over ten years.
Tennent has a few core memories from his early life relating to photography, including being given a small digital camera by his dad and running around his grandma’s house capturing different moments. Since 2017, Tennent has been using an old Yashica point and shoot to capture incredible people and beautiful cities, sharing his work with thousands.
“I have always been obsessed with it. I am not sure why, but looking back, it has been such a huge part of my life,” says Tennent.
When asked what inspires him, Tennent attributes his work ethic to his mum. “It’s been wonderful for her to watch me grow into the creative I am.”
With an incredible ability to capture interesting people doing mundane things, Tennent’s work has accumulated a few career highlights which, according to him, include premiering his second book in Italian Vogue, Jacquemus reposting his work and reaching out to say he loved it, and shooting the musician Labrinth for Vogue Australia.
More recently, Tennent relocated to Sydney, Australia (Gadigal Land) and has been going from strength to strength. “The first few months were tricky as I had to find a house and also introduce myself to the Sydney community,” he says. “Moving here has changed my life. My work has grown astronomically and the access to resources is incomparable. I have been able to really hone in on my craft and expand my knowledge. I exclusively shoot film, which has not changed since I moved from Aotearoa.”
Creating with his newfound community is the core focus for Tennent, however a third book isn’t completely off the cards. “My first book turns five years old this year, and my second turns two. If history is to repeat itself, I should put out another one in a year,” he says.
“For now, I will continue to go with the flow as that is where the magic happens.”
Quick-fire Questions:
I would describe my style as… Ever-changing.
Where you’ll find me holidaying this season… On the coast of Italy.
If I could have dinner with any three people on earth, dead or alive, I would choose… TS Maddison, Tiffany ‘New York’ Pollard, and Wendy Williams.
The most cherished item in my home is… My cameras.
My favourite place to travel to… Northland, New Zealand.
Hometown’s best-kept secret… Ripe Deli’s Halloumi Sandwich.
My guilty pleasure is… A full sugar Coke.
