Interview: Photographer Dariusz Sankowski (Poland) Winner of the month
Can you tell us a little about you?
I was born in 1985 in Wroclaw, the most beautiful city in Poland. I am photographer, who thinks a lot and is observing; someone who demands more from yourself than from others. My approach to photography is very technical. For me, the most important things are details. I love black&white colors. Heavy reportage photos talks to me the most; especially the portraits. We are conducting a photograph studio named "Portetownia" from few years and I am organizing Photograph Events "OKAMI" with my model, Paula Merycedes Młynarska since 2017. We are warmly invite you to participate :)
How and when did you get into photography?
My beginning with the photography was not a romantic story. I did not get the old analog camera from my gradpa and i did not participate into additional classes from photography in school. I have bought my first camera, digital camera(!), because I won’t spend my first money on ridiculous things. Although I bought the camera, i have never before did even one photo, so I was not wandering if it was really needed. I was quite old, I was 18 then, but I’m pretty sure that my first photo changed my life immediately. Yeah, it seems to me that this particular day was the day that I could tell about myself, that I am a photograph :)
What does photography mean to you?
For me, the photography is the moment of flicking of shutter release, the joy which eventuate just after. Of course, the integument around like planning, preparing, exhibitions, publications or even graphic processing makes me happy and it is a significant part of photography, but I guess, the most important for me is what I see through viewer.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I do not have one particular style. I like too much in photography to resign from all everything in order to choose one style. Certainly, I am sure that viewer after watching my photos knows who is the author, but it is not a result of style, it’s rather generally understood aesthetics. I would not change it.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I explore the internet, the magazines or works of my friends, but the truth is, I do not try to find the inspiration. A lot of things appears in my head by itself. It happens often that the model inspire me by her or his ideas. I like to do the job which is great also to others.
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
Initially yes, but during the session a lot of can change. I am trying to observe, think; I behave a little bit as a reporter closed in the room. I rather avoid detailed scheduling.
Studio, on location or both?
It does not matter for me. It is important to hold the camera and have the occasion to use it. I don’t like cramped rooms, I love space.
If its about the light, I prefer the low-light photography, which gives me a lot of easiness. I like to move during the session and often to change the frames. Happily, I’ve got that comfort that my studio does not limits me in that case. Obviously, it is not like you always work as you like and artificial lighting is not strange for me.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I am not an amateur, but its hard to say about being professional photographer. In my opinion, an indicator of professionalism is not the money you get. Unfortunately majority of people who are working in that field are not professionalists. If its about me.. I am professional hobbyist :),
What has been your most memorable session and why?
First photograph event was the most memorable to me. I organised it with my favourite model, Paula. It was huge if, because we have arranged it almost in 5 minutes ! The main goal of that event was integration of known photographers from different communities. No one refused, it was really great :)
What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?
When you do what you love, you don’t need special inspiration. You’ve got perpetual desire of creating the new pictures. Of course, there are crises sometimes but the models and the photographers come with the help.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Currently, FujiFilm is my number one and I’m really surprised that our friendship last so long. I was changing equipment often till now. I use also Mamiya and a Polaroid and if I must - an Iphone; it is really neutral to me which kind of tools I will use.
If it is about lens: Canon 50mm, in Nikon different Sigma ART, in Olympus 75mm, in FujiFilm wide-angle 16mm, although my favourite are 56mm and 90mm. GFX is also worth of telling with 120mm :)
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
Take the photos for yourself, not for others ! Do it as much as you can. If you have no possibility to take the photo, try to remember frames, think of what you want to photograph. Read the old books, look through the albums and acquaint with painting and sculptures. Do not limit yourself. Listen and talk with people. Do not think about money, but regard yourself. Believe in yourself !
What do you think of our new magazine?
I like the most your fresh approach to new people, its huge risk and hard work, but you are doing it well :) I think that you encourage people who want to see something different and original. I knew You earlier and I willingly dip into every new magazine.
