Interview: Photographer Tomek Delongiewicz (Poland)
Can you tell us a little about you? My name’s Tomek Delongiewicz, I’m 31 years old and I live in Warsaw. I love photography and I’m also an avid voleyball player.
How and when did you get into photography?
It all began ten years ago, mostly because of my first girlfriend who loved taking photos of nature. In time I developed an interest in photography and postproduction. In the beginning I took only photos of landscapes, after a year I had my first photo shoot with a model.
What does photography mean to you?
Photography has always been my passion, it gives me a lot of pleasure and fun. On the other hand, it’s my job. I earn my living taking photos. It may be surprising, but apart from sensual pictures I also specialise in wedding photography.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
It’s not a secret that most of my photos were taken in a bed. I show sensual, seductive women dressed in tempting lingerie, as well as clothed in nothing. My pictures are sultry but tasteful, I avoid lewd, provocative poses. The most important for me is presenting my models the best I can, showing how attractive they are. I always try to capture their beauty in a photograph.
6 Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
I’m definitely not a planner. I enjoy working spontaneously. However, before each photo shoot I know its style, an overall effect, but I don’t focus on details.
Where do you get inspiration from?
For me the best inspirations are my models, their character and inner beauty. I get inspired watching how they act in front of my camera. Also the locations and light are important for me. Sometimes inspirations lead to dissapointment, because we are unable to archieve the same results and we end up making copies.
Studio, on location or both?
I have been working as a photo assistant in a studio for 5 years. So this is not something unfamiliar to me. However, I prefer taking photos in locations where I can use natural light.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I consider mysef a professional and a hobbyist. Photography is my job, I earn photographing weddings and couples in love. I take sensual pictures as a hobby, I do it for free :).
What has been your most memorable session and why?
My Most memorable photo shoot was my first sensual session. For me, it was something new and overpowering. I tried to be calm and composed, but my emotions took control. The results of that session exceeded my expectations. I was so excited that I wanted to show the pictures everyone and everywhere as fast as I could.
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
My main source of inspiration is maxmodels.pl, a website connecting models, photographers, makeup artists and stylists. I visit it almost everyday to follow the latest trends in Polish photography and observe my friends’ work.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
I use Canon 5d mkIII. In lenses mostly canon 50mm 1.4, canon 85mm. 1.8 and sigma art 35mm. 1.4.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
In the beginning you have to discover what kind of photos you like, and take pleasure in what you do. Enjoy taking pictures, develop your style and master the technique. But most of all, follow your instincts and feelings. Try hard to be the best as you can, above the average.
What do you think of our new magazine?
This is an interesting source of inspirations for everyone who loves photography. It also gives us a great opportunity to become familiar with other photographers’ work and it helps to get to know them better; to see them as real people, not only nicks next to their pictures.
