We had the opportunity to speak to this dynamic photographer about her 10 year history of photography and it was amazing. Sit back and go on this journey with us.
Tell us a little bit about you:
I am a professional photographer for almost 10 years, mainly people. Now I have decided to experiment and create new quality. I cooperated with magazines form Poland and abroad. Associated with fashion world – shooting tests for models (including Model Agencies). Privately: in love with music, addicted to chocolate, absentminded optimist and owner of two cats. I don't have dreams, I have goals.
Where is home?
Home is where the cats are.
If you could live anywhere on this awesome planet, where would you build your dream home?
I truly believe, that I am able to build home in every place on earth and... it would be “my dreamed one”.
What is your current state of mind before we continue with the interview?
I'm ready for this journey.
What sort of work do you specialize in?
I love working with people. Mainly I'm focusing on fashion and beauty editorials, but from time to time it is good to jump into honest, raw, live story telling like portraits or even nude art.
Did you go to school to study photography?
To be honest, my core education is Master degrees in Business and Law; apart from that I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication with elements of graphic design. Photography, itself, was my steppingstone long before college stage of my life.
How long have you been a photographer?
Next month, it will be over 10 years.
What or who got you started in photography?
My stepfather borrowed me first camera for summer trip. I never gave it back. Oops, SORRY DAD!
How would you describe your style?
First of all, I'm addicted to strong, real emotions. Sometimes even pushing people to their boundaries to achieve my goals: making silly jokes for smile, throwing objects to make them angry or even causing muscle contraction to see pain and live tears.
Secondly, I love to play with colors. High saturation, wide color spectrum and intense color spots. Black and white, however, is always strong if it goes to contrast and exposure points.
What type of cameras do you shoot with?
For commercial and studio works I always use full frame digital camera (NIKON), but I love to create my stories in old-fashioned way on camera film. I have few, old, soviet ZENIThs and one semi-automatic NIKON.
What is your favorite photography accessory, other than your camera?
I can't imagine outdoor photoshoot plan without reflector disc – it's perfect when it rains, nothing will get wet.
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
I have huge sentiment to Nikkor 50mm, f/1.8, cause it was my first, non-KIT lens, which proved me that even I can create fairytales. Nowadays, I'm in love in my Nikkor 60mm, f/2.8D Micro – it is perfect to catching close-up, micro emotions, make up and skin details.
What lighting equipment do you take on a shoot?
As always, it depends. I love to use natural light, reflections, flash lights or even mix all of them. All depends of my and photoshoot’s mood.
Can you describe how and when you use flash, video light, reflectors and natural light during a shoot?
It depends on the photoshoot, but I try not to duplicate settings.
What are your favorite computer/editing accessory, other than your computer?
In first few times I was suspicious, but now I can't live without my Wacom Tablet.
How important is Photoshop in your final images?
Not at all – sometimes (even while working on digital camera) I am setting photoshoot plan for hour or more, cause I am focused on specific effect. In addition – I'm lucky because I have awesome creative team on my back, so I don’t need to apply any make up, hairstyle or styling corrections.
Are you a MAC or PC lover?
My heart is in love with MAC, but my wallet not necessarily so. Well then, PC, I guess?
Do you plan on buying any new equipment and if so what do you have your eyes on?
I'm always looking for “new” old cameras. That's why I love thrift shops and eBay.
Can you briefly describe for the readers your photographic workflow?
First it's all about THAT spark. Then brain storming with my creative team and... freestyle on the battlefield. That's why I love it – You never know how it will end.
How do you feel about cropping an image?
Only one exception – if technically something is impossible and we need this shoot.
What gives you ideas and inspires you to create such great imagery?
Life, music, emotions... Sometimes it is small spark in head. Word. Color. Anything.
What has been your most memorable assignment and why?
My first commercial work – I were so stressed that I will fail, so I didn't speak a word on whole photoshoot, just... went with the flow. In the end, Client was pleased and I understood that I can trust my instincts.
Do you have an assistant? If so why?
From time to time I agree to take with me on photoshoot someone. I'm more than glad to help them grow – I exactly remember how hard beginnings are.
Where would be your dream destination assignment?
My dream is to work with unusual animals on set. Destination is less important here.
What is your favorite image you have shot recently?
It was commercial work – campaign for European Lingerie Company. We were shooting in a penthouse with wonderful city view. I asked our cute, oriental model to lay on back on bed near window, so dawn city lights made beautiful contrast to yellow bedside light. Crimson red satin and black lace just fulfilled image.
What do you think of the photography industry at the moment and where do you see it in 5 years from now?
It's hard to be an “AAA” Artist, but as hard as in other industries. Doing a solid work sometimes does not cut it, but with a little bit of luck it just might be fine. I think that in 5 years from now we, as photographers, will need even more luck to be noticed in the industry.
A photographer who inspires you?
From Artsy side – I'm in love with David La Chapelle esthetics. From Commercial side – Alexi Lubomirski is my Prince Charming.
A website and/or blog you visit often?
My each day must-have is (besides AAA Fashion Magazines) businessoffashion.com and local/national news-portal.
The first photographer that comes to your mind and why?
Still in love with La Chapelle and Lubomirski.
One way you market your photography?
I... don't. Luckily, now I can choose which projects I want to do and which not. Basically there is not possibility to “buy” my services by private people.
How important is an awesome website for your business?
I believe that omni channel strategy is the answer. Awesome website won't give any results if we forget about social media. And... It’s even a little bit more complicated than that. We need to set market strategy, think about our customers groups and market target. Only then we can choose best channels for our communication. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr, LinkedIn... all of them have different communities. And I don't think that using either none or every single one of them is a good strategy. It only means that you don't think about your business in a serious way. If you are serious about something you must stay focused.
Is there anybody or anything you would love to photograph?
It would be honored to create something with Cara Delavigne. I admire her ability to express emotions.
What advice do you have for somebody who wants to pursue photography?
Learn, learn, learn, learn, learn... on your mistakes and listen to constructive criticism. But most importantly – don't give up!
I’ve learned the most from…
My own mistakes.
What talent would you most like to have?
Instantly making people happy.
Something you’re still learning?
Being grateful for each lesson I've learned.
Something that is overrated?
Fitting in.
Something you’re saving up for?
House... for my cats.
If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Myself... 15years ago.
Your favorite film (movie) of all time?
Labyrinth (1986) with David Bowie!
First thing you would do if you won the lottery?
Make a selfie – to remember who I am.
And the last questions, if you had one wish…
I would be Unicorn, who will make others’ dreams come true!
Your readers can find out more about me:
Website: http://linapaslawska.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linapaslawskaofficial/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinaPaslawska/
Wardrobe Credits: Dress: SingleStyl | Shoes – Vintage | Skirt – Vintage Headband – Stylist Own | Earrings - eCarla & Zara | Tights – Marylin Blouse – Atmosphere | Gloves – Stylist Own | Rings - eCarla Body – Vintage | Belt – Moschino
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