Interviews / Stories
Interview: Photographer Anja Ekstrøm (Denmark)
Tell us something about yourself
Anja Ekstrøm, 41 years old, 5 years in photography, Live in Copenhagen, Denmark, Working: worldwid, www.anjaekstroem.dk //
www.instagram.com/anjaekstroem
How and when did you get into photography?
About 5 years ago, I lifted a camera for the first time – I was asked just to shoot a quick portrait of a friend, with an ordinary “household-camera” and no edit opportunities except insta-filters…. That started a spark within me… I was blown away about how much I loved it… I borrowed the money for a decent camera, got help from fellow photographers to get me started and the rest is history. But a fun fact that my photographer career started “By chance”
What does photography mean to you?
It means everything! Its my passion and livelyhood now – I am so fortunate to be able to live of what I love to do! I really believe that is my greatest gift in life – to smile every morning
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
Its very different, I think…. Depending on, if it is a portrait, a fashioncampaign or something different… I ALWAYS want a feeling/mood/personality/energy to be the hero in the shot, but I love to play with colours, makeup etc.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from everywhere…. A colour, a feeling, a set of clothing, other people etc…. I save it in my mind and at some point its in a photoshoot in its form or to a certain degree
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
Absolutely – I ALWAYS have an idea or a thought, about what I want, but I also know that it is a “fluent process” to shoot – It always evolves in different directions which creates art and new ideas
Studio, on location or both?
I am 90% studio and 10% location but I am planning to even that out a little bit more J My comfortzone is the studio as I have everything near me and can control the lights etc – its a bit harder to do to the sun ;-)
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I consider myself as a paid professional as I am doing this for a living
What has been your most memorable session and why?
I actually have several big ones that I love, but one springs to mind. Me and a GREAT team made a photoshoot where the big gowns/dresses was mad entirely out of fresh flowers and we got to shoot it at a castle…. That came out SO AWESOME and the day was so much fun and the team were magnificent and we all LOVED the vision and idea and made it work 100%
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
Colours/Makeup in the creative shots and personality in the portraits.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
I am a Canon-girl J My faverite ones is a 50 mm 1,4 and a 24-100 mm – I am hoping to get 24-70 mm as I hear that is an amazing one.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
It is simple: IF YOU CAN DREAM IT – YOU CAN DO IT!! Follow your gutfeeling in all aspects
What do you think of our new magazine?
I like it a lot…. I just think there is a bit much “sexy-photos” and to little fashion and creative beauty/avantgarde….
www.instagram.com/anjaekstroem