Interviews / Stories
Interview: Photographer Fotis Fotopoulos (Greece)
Tell us something about yourself
I was born in 1977 in Greece and for the most part of my life I have been studying and playing music. That’s how my relationship with art begun and for many years I worked as a professional musician.
How and when did you get into photography?
I remember myself wanting to buy an SLR camera since high-school, but always something got in the way. Many years passed and I finally got my first DSLR 3 years ago! It was an entry level camera and I thought that I will take the path of street photography since I wasn’t comfortable taking people’s pictures from up close! I did street photography for one day. Just one day. Then I shoot a couple of actor friends that needed head shots and immediately fell in love with portraits! Sold my entry level camera after 4 months and bought a full frame. Since then I only take pictures of people and I enjoy it the most!
What does photography mean to you?
Is another way of expression and communication for me. I love it from the start, the planning of a photoshoot, the location scouting and concept, if any, till that magical moment where you and your model connect without noticing the camera in the middle. Then pictures get real for me. Then I can capture that unique sparkle in someone’s eyes!
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I guess portraits in general, with a touch of fashion and beauty sometimes.
Where do you get inspiration from?
Mostly music and movies. Sometimes in other photographers works.
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
Not always. Sometimes I plan ahead of time, especially if I am working with a make up artists or a stylists and other times I just take a walk with my model and see what happens.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I consider myself a paid professional, since I get paid… well most of the times! But being a professional is not about the money. Is about respecting your art and other people around you.
Studio, on location or both?
Both. Depends on my mood, my model, the weather and how much I want to experiment.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
I wouldn’t say most memorable session, rather memorable moment in these sessions when I feel the connection with my model. Oh, and one time that I didn’t have enough batteries! Then I bought a few more!!
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
People and life itself. And mostly the sad parts…
Nikon or Canon? Favourite lens?
Well neither! I have a Sony and I am very happy with it! And I absolutely love my 50mm 1.4
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
It would be the same advice for every person that starts his own thing! You have to love it. There will come dark and scary times. So you better be in love with what you do, or else you will not make it through. Simple as that.
What do you think of our new magazine?
I really like it and think it’s great that you give the opportunity for artists to show their work. It is certainly an honour for me to be featured in here.
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