Interviews / Stories
Interview: Photographer Giannis Rewekis (Germany)
Tell us something about yourself
Hello, my name is Giannis. I am from Ladenburg, a small town near Heidelberg, Germany. I have spent a part of my childhood in Greece, which is my home country.
In the early 80’s I returned to Germany.
How and when did you get into photography?
I have started photographing 9 years ago shortly after my daugther’s birth. She was my first model and is definitely responsible for the first 2000 to 3000 shots.
Very soon afterwards, followed mainly by female models I gained experience more and more in photography. I have not yet reached my own limits and always try to keep improving myself. Photography is a neverending learning process, which requires a lot of patience and hard work.
What does photography mean to you?
To me photography means a tremendous pleasure and hard work at the same time. It allows me to express my creativity and makes me forget the day-to-day routine.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
My preferences are clean photographs with an almost plastic effect.
I like pretty much shooting in front of clinker brick and other industrial constructions representing a lot of character.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I find inspiration when finding without searching various and differentiating spots. Sometimes other photographers bring inspirations into my works. Most of the time ideas come up and get developed on site. I am not the kind of person who likes to make plans in advance.
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
No, not really. Nevertheless there can be a basic idea, which must be taken into consideration when selecting a new spot. The picture itself is created at the very moment and interaction between the model and the photographer.
Studio, on location or both?
I enjoy working on site and, if possible, with available light. I also use beauty dishes, umbrellas and reflectors when needed.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I am a part-time photographer and run my own business, which I started 3 years ago. Since then I have had the opportunity to accompany several people for many occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, baptisms, etc.
Of course, I enjoy shooting portraits and boudoirs as well.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
Last year I was happy to be booked for two wedding shoots in Portugal. I have gained valuable experiences abroad and had the chance to work within a large team with other photographers, a camera crew and a pretty stunning make-up artist.
It was a very challenging but also a fascinating experience which inspired me in many ways and which I would like to renew anytime.
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
My inspiration comes up through the existing huge variety of fashion and photo magazines, but as well through different internet professional photographers’s sites.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
I have been photographing with a Nikon since the very beginning. Currently with a Nikon D810, a more than terrific camera, whose potential is by far not exhaustive.
Two of my favorite lenses are the Nikon 80-300 2.8 and the Sigma Art 50mm 1,4.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
It is a hard business where one needs to persevere in order to succeed.
In my opinion it is absolutely essential to be passionate, always remember one’s goal, but also know your abilities and learn how to assess them in order to compete successfully on the market. The device keyword here is risk taking.
What do you think of our new magazine?
I have to admit I was not acquainted to look up to the Modellenland Magazin until a couple of months ago. One of my colleagues brought my attention to this magazine by showing me at the same time his works that were exposed in this magazine.
Since then I had the chance to get a closer look on many other MM editions and I have to say that I really like the quality.
It’s great that newcomers have the opportunity to present their works in many countries all around the world, which definitely enables to establish new contacts easily and to reach out for a broader network.
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