Interviews / Stories
Interview: Photographer Xenia Udalova (Germany)
Tell us something about yourself
I moved to Brussels 1,5 years ago from Berlin, where i studied Business Communication. I love art, jazz, travelling, dancing and decorating my home :) The photography is my main job and i love to tell the people about Belgium and other countries through my pictures (@xeniaudalova) Very open to collaborations, addicted to fine art i try to show every person how beautiful and interesting he/she is.
How and when did you get into photography?
I was always inspired by photography and i started as a model 10 years ago. After couple years i decided to try myself in styling, cause i saw the picture i wanna create and i loved to communicate with a model. Usually the models were usual girls, clients, not professionals at all. So i felt happy seeing how i can find the way to their hearts and open their souls on the pictures. And voila after couple years i got the camera in my hands and felt in love with it. In the beginning i was scared it will be difficult form technical point of view, but finally when i´ve learned and understood how the light works, nothing better could happen, then to be able to juggle the light and catch the souls. I spent 4 years in Germany learning how to communicate in Business, how to play with awaitings and images. That was a time when i felt deep into photography and captured my first portraits and weddings.
What does photography mean to you?
It´s my way of expression. But expression through the happy eyes of girl i have captured.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I work with bloggers in street- and lifestyle for their instagram, fashion stylists and make-up artists for styled shootings and magazines. With travellers – for capturing the best moments of their trips. With couples and familiys – for capturing the weddings, maternity and newborns.
I am addicted to fine art.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I get inspired of people i make photos. Inspiration from magazines and art is the only one-way inspiration, much more important is for me to show, what is in heart and mind of model.
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
I get ready to each shooting, to give it mood and style. Location, light, ideas of styling and posing – everything should be in mind.
Studio, on location or both?
Depends on the style and goal of the shooting. The professional can work and create everywhere. Still i prefer natural light and openair.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
Its my profession, and its my passion. But its not a hobby anymore. If i travelled with the camera before, nowadays i sometimes prefer to have nothing hanging on my neck while travelling, but to eat the view with my eyes and keep it in my head.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
The wedding photoshooting in Provence. It was +35 degrees, the lavender field was full of bees, my shoes were full of orange ground, the bride was very tired of heat in her wedding dress. But in the end we got such amazing pictures, which were published by more than 4 magazines. They still stay my favorite work.
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
Im inspired by the fact that i can always get better.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Canon 5D markIII, Helios 44M-5
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
Practice, networking and good light.
What do you think of our new magazine?
If you ask about WINNER DESIGNER AUDREY – im not a fan of such vampire fantasy style in photography. In general: you should better follow the trends and promote the instagram account.
Its very nice that you represent the talented artists. I hope it will bring much success for both sides!