Behold Adan Soroka AKA Slinky – a nickname he got as a young teenager for his spontaneity and happy go lucky attitude towards life; you know what I'm talking about, the colourful coil that wobbles down the stairs. He is always looking for the next fun thing to do, whether that's chasing waves, skating with mates or learning a new hobby. Adan has recently moved down to Christchurch from Nelson and works as a barista at a local café. He is also a passionate photographer. He bought his first camera at 18, a canon 750d with a stock zoom lens. From there, a small passion for telling stories through images blossomed.

More specifically, a deep affection for film photography developed. On an op shop trip around town, Adan came across a nice Pentax which is still the one he currently uses. "These days it can be considered basic because every odd young adult takes film photos and wears recycled clothing. Maybe not everyone, but there is a sub-culture of 'different' individuals. I guess the seeking of nostalgia is a FOMO response to everyone who missed the 70s and the 80s etc."

He appreciates the effort one has to put in when using a film camera - as opposed to some of the technologically impeccable digital cameras available these days. "My dad always used to use the term 'delayed gratification', meaning the longer you wait for something, the more you appreciate it. You cherish the results more than machine-gunning a DSLR."

Adan's images are reflections of his life and passions. Capturing his hobbies or things he admires: aesthetic landscapes, buildings, vehicles, and people. "I love people; therefore, I'm drawn to capturing them. My spontaneous nature had led me to take random photos of things I can't explain. No story or explanation behind the image; it is what it is."

Despite his action-packed lifestyle, Adan always comes back to what centres him: his faith. "Everything I do derives from my core beliefs as a Christian." This shapes his work, as well.

Pauanui Beach is a rich man’s playground in the middle of the Coromandel Peninsula. My parents live here in a small beach house, so a few times a year I go and visit them; I am always inspired by how picturesque it is. This photo was taken on my routine morning surf check, and now it is one of my favourite film shots I've ever taken. The most ordinary of moments can produce something extraordinary.

Ever broken a bone? I hadn't until the middle of last year. This was my desk for weeks after I snapped my collarbone clean in two pieces. Many drugs, keys for driving nowhere, shades to keep my cool, and a photo of myself to remind me of who I am. I landed on a rail snowboarding right at the start of the season and was left kicking myself while all my friends went up the mountain.

On my way to just your average surf, I came across a different Surf. It had been a dream of mine to own a 60s Series Land Cruiser or an old Surf/4Runner. I saw this beauty on the side of a country road while driving to the beach. My friend made a comment saying he would check it out on the way back from our surf and I told him "back off, I'm buying that truck". That night, the truck was mine. She's very photogenic, in my eyes.

I enjoy capturing unique vehicles and scenery. This rad looking bus parked up in front of Lake Rotoiti is tranquil and comforting. Snow on the hills, fire in the bus was going, coffee brewing… "heart eyes". After I got the dreamy photo, the boys and I tore up the grass in the truck. No one's too old for a wee skid until of course the DOC ranger came down and started chasing us in his ute. After a five-minute Tom and Jerry chase, we thought we lost him – we were wrong. He pulled up next to us and gave us an earful. Apologetic and humbled, we carried on and just laughed it off.

I found an underwater film camera in an op shop and bought it knowing I would never use it. Every time there is waves, I'm going to surf over taking photos. Over Christmas, there were waves all week up in the Coromandel, so I forced myself for just one session to take some pictures. This day, the Whanga Bar was pumping; I surfed first then dusted the camera off and got a few snaps.

Ahh, festival season. I am not the biggest festivalgoer but living in Nelson meant I had to attend Bay Dreams. Pre-drinks started around 10 am down the road. This photo does enough to explain how the day went – a jolly good time.

Am I in heaven? Nestled in the little Sumner community is the Sumner Anglican Church. Having just moved here and heard about this ramp made me think am I really in heaven, and what happens if it rains? No problem, being indoors means endless sessions.

The underexposure, deep red tones, and heavy contrast are evocative and tell an intimate love story. Ironically, the love story was being shot behind us as we were on the set of a mid-century music video. Go check out BEXY on Spotify.

A New World sandwich, a can of beer, and a dart. Lunchtime for Wellington skaters who spend most of their days down at chafers. This guy couldn't make the 5-0, but it still made a great shot.

A friendly reunion. The weekend I took this photo was the weekend of a friend's wedding. I love weddings because amigos from near and far are brought together. These are two of my close friends Jared and Sam. Just by looking at this photo, you can tell we had a good night.

Through faith and passion: Photography by Adan Soroka