Interview: Photographer Marcel A Vie (Germany)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My Name is Marcel, I’m 30 years old. When it’s about photography I’m "Marcel A Vie" (Mar[cel la vie]) - not everybody gets it. It’s a pun from the french "C’est la vie" meaning 'It is what it is. Thats Life.’.

How and when did you get into photography? Im into photography for around 6 or 7 years now. Back then my girlfriend at this time bought me a Diana F+ - my first analog camera. Before I already was interested in taking photos (with my good old lady Eos 350D), but not that „serious“. And when I pressed the trigger for the first time, something happened. It was magical for me to think about composition and double-exposure and stuff, and that I had to wait for the result. To start with analog was a important thing for me.

What does photography mean to you?

Everything. It’s the most important thing for me. There is no off-button. You know that feeling when you hear a song you don’t listen for a while, and you are back-connected to a special moment, special feelings, special what-ever. You are back in this situation. This is photography for me. Take a good capture is a chance to hold something forever in your mind. Look at a photo you have taken, and you never forget what kind of situation it was, what you felt in this moment, what happened around. You will remember everything. It’s a mind-tattoo.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

My style is very personal. Near. Authentic, but dreamy. Sensual.

Where do you get inspiration from?

From other artists, of course. Ben Sasse for example is one of my absolutely favorite photographer. But also from just going out. We life in a world which is full of inspirations. Just leave your place and open your eyes. „Put a frame on it“.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

Not really. There is a raw guess, a construct. But you never know what will happen. So I stop making plans.

Studio, on location or both?

On Locations! I work with available light only. No Studio.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Something in between. Im not a fan of calling myself a „professional“. I do what I love, and sometimes I get money for it.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

I dont have that „one“ special session. There are tons of good stories :) When you can feel free, you feel a special connection to the model, you work together to create something … simple things make me feel high on life.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Im a Canon user. But not because Canon is better“ It just came that way and Im in love with the system. I grow up with it. I had a few chances to work with Fuji, Nikon and other systems, and Im pretty sure all of them are very very good in what they do in their way. My favorite lens is my 35mm Sigma Art. A portrait with this one can „breathe“.

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

Yep. Dont copy! Feel free - you are an artist, live it!

What do you think of our new magazine?

It’s fantastic! You have a great collection of outstanding artist. Go on the good work!

https://www.facebook.com/marcelavie.zeitfenster/