Interview: Photographer Jakub Bodys (Poland)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I am a 20 year old Poland based photographer. I currently work in Polska Press Group. I also cooperate with numerous cultural institutions and stage artists. I organise workshops and I’m the initiator of the innovatory project involving sensorial photography, addressed to visually impaired people.

How and when did you get into photography?

Photography was somehow always around me, as a family tradition. Quite naturally, it was passed on to me. What’s more, I had an early chance to join my first editorial staff. That’s where I’ve met my mentor – Ignac Tokarczyk with whom I work till this day. Not only did he teach me the basics of photography, but also showed me the art of portraiture and nude art.

What does photography mean to you?

It’s quite a paradox actually. On the one hand, it means a world to me. What was just work to begin with, gradually evolved into the way I perceive the reality. On the other hand, the presence of photography on a daily basis taught me to appreciate the moments when I don’t have to look through the lens.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I don’t think there is a key to describe my style. It always begins with an inspiration. A quick look, a brief moment, the amosphere, they all create a scene for the shot. I try to orbit around faded colours, heavy shadows and true emotions showed on each of my works. It’s not a rule though, as the result is always an outcome of working with another human being.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Most of my inspiration comes from Ignac, as I have mentioned before. I try to travel as much as possible and meet people whose works I admire. One of my favourite destinations is Podlaskie Plenery Fotograficzne, a quarterly event gathering photographers, models and stylists. I’ve also created a similar event called Plener OdDyseja – it’s another source of inspiration. What's the most importrant is that I have the luck to work with brilliant people and create extremelly creative team. For example – I love to work with Magdalenna Nocoń-Łysko and Berta Stępkowska, one of the best make up artists I've met. They also inspire me and complete our creations.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

I always try to show up on the scene having a ready scenario in my head. I sometimes sketch up frames for the shoot, but it’s usually the beginning of a process. I always face models ideas and emotions on the set, which affects the initial idea.

Studio, on location or both?

On location as long as it is possible. I like the way light affects the session and makes photographer think in advance. Let’s not forget about the background – it plays a crutial role in setting up the mood of the frame. I don’t avoid studios either. There’s something tempting in the intensity and onirism of shooting at three in the morning.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Photography has become my way of living. I don’t really consider myself a professional, especially when it comes to portraiture and nude art, but I work as a photojournalist on a daily basis.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

There has been a few. There is always a thrill of excitement when you meet a long awaited model. There have been a few sessions in quite extreme conditions, weather and locationwise.

The one I remember well is the first meeting with Alicja, one of my favourite muses. It was both stressful and awfully exctining. I was just a beginner while she was already a pro. We’ve done many sessions since then and evolved, but I still remember the first meeting.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Nikon, it just feels better in hand. I experiment with both Nikkor and vintage lenses, but if I have to choose one, I would go for “nifty fifty” – Nikkor 50 1.4D.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Always look forward to meeting people. Try to link as many of them as you can. And always keep on learing from their experiences. It always pays off.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I really like it. It’s refreshing to see such form, with huge variety of different talents and personas. It filled the space that needed filling, great work!

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