Interview: Photographer Slawek Patoka (Poland)

Tell us something about yourself. I was born and live in Poland, near Warsaw. I like riding motorcycles, enjoying the nature, reading books and drinking wine. But my big love are traditional photography and old cameras.

How and when did you get into photography?

The first camera I got from my parents when I was 9 years old. That's when I fell in love with photography. And so, with little breaks, it continues until today.

What does photography mean to you? Photography has been with me for so long, so it's just part of my life.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers. My style? Hm… I use medium format camera with black and white film usually, so my style is ... black&white and square. I love taking pictures of people, especially naked people – men and women and showing relationships between them. Most I like the photos that tell a story.

Where do you get inspiration from? I take inspiration from everyday life. I also watch works of traditional photography masters. My idols are Helmut Newton and Jan Saudek.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture? Always. My pictures are created first in my head.

Studio, on location or both? I prefer the dailylight. So outdoor.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional? Professional hobbyist. When I'm working, I'm a professional, when I'm creating I'm a hobbyist What has been your most memorable session and why? I like to think that my most important session still is ahead of me.

What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work? The biggest source of inspiration? As I said - great masters of 20th century photography and their pictures. And life. And always my wife, of course.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

None of them. Currently old Russian camera Kiev88 and Volna 80/2.8 lens.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business? Look trough eyes, follow your heart, have head full of ideas and stay openminded. What do you think of our new magazine? Great idea. Many good photographers and many great models in one place.

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