Charlie Thomas Interview
Each month we ask a photographer to picture a Corneliani Travel Jacket -the iconic overshirt- somewhere in the world. These are shots by British photographer and writer Charlie Thomas, including self-portraits, taken in Melides, a small town on the south coast of Portugal.
Where did you take these pictures?
These photos – including a self-portrait in front of white tiled wall, and sunrise shots of blue doored buildings – were taken in Melides, a small town on the south coast of Portugal. The town feels slow-paced and relaxed, and is handily located next to a white sandy beach.
Who’s wearing the Travel shirt-jacket?
I’m wearing the travel jacket, and shot this on a tripod with a self-timer. I found some good locations, like a simple tiled wall, with the light hitting it just right in the early morning.
What was the mood you were trying to convey?
As natural as possible, which is always difficult when you have a tripod bearing down on you. It was important that the shot could be fairly easily placed in Portugal, without it being too clichéd. I hope the image looks as though someone else has taken it!
What do you like about the location?
I live in London, which often feels very hectic and rushed. In Melides I instantly felt at ease and relaxed. This might have been to do with the ever-present sun and blue skies, the relative lack of people, and the beautifully simple architecture.
What do you like about travelling?
Travel gives you a chance to broaden your world-view. Seeing new things and experiencing different cultures can only be a good thing. Whether you’re flying to the other side of the world, or visiting a different part of the town in which you live, going to new places is addictive. If you can travel, then why wouldn’t you want to do so?
What are the key things you always pack?
I always pack an overshirt or field jacket with multiple pockets. I usually keep my passport in the jacket’s chest pocket, and when passing through security fill the rest of the pockets with my phone, wallet, sunglasses and watch. I then take it off through the scanner, knowing my valuables are in one place. I always pack a camera which I keep in a shoulder bag, stored in my backpack. The shoulder bag then becomes my day bag when out and about, while the backpack stores laptops and chargers for use in the hotel or AirBnb.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d give to fellow travellers?
It’s something Anthony Bourdain once said, a man who travelled more than most. It’s that you should leave room for spontaneity, and not plan a trip too rigidly. Sometimes mistakes will happen, and not everything you experience has to be the most mind blowing thing.
Do you have a packing tip?
Roll your clothes rather than fold them. Pack light. If in doubt, wear dark colours that work together. Pack your socks inside your spare shoes - it saves room and the shoes hold their shape.
Hand luggage or check-in?
I always prefer hand luggage. I’m impatient and don’t like to wait in baggage reclaim. And there’s the perpetual fear of your suitcase getting lost or left behind.
How did the Corneliani Travel jacket do – what’s your review of it?
The fabric was a standout. It’s reassuring to know that it won’t crease. Even if you throw the jacket in the bottom of a bag, take it out and it will bounce back to life. It’s also very lightweight and breathable. The pockets are excellent also. The two chest pockets fit passports and wallets, while the two side pockets can be zipped up and they’re surprisingly deep. It’s also a jacket that can work for all occasions. It’s smart and can be dressed up with tailored trousers, but it also works with denim and drawstring trousers.
CHARLIE THOMAS
Charlie Thomas is a UK-based writer, journalist and photographer. His work focusses on culture, style, motoring and travel and has appeared in Financial Times How To Spend It, GQ, The Times, Robb Report, The Independent, the London Evening Standard, NME, Esquire and Black + White Photography magazine.
