Interview: Photographer Kate Medowaya (New York, USA)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Kate Medowaya. I am a photographer, writer and model. I was born, grew up and lived for 30 years in one of the most beautiful cities in the world - Saint Petersburg, Russia. This is a city of special energy and spirit that filled up me and my work. I received a Bachelor in a history of art, fashion and photography. In my 30 years, more than 3 years ago, I took a chance and started my life and my career from scratch in a foreign country. I moved to the city of my dream New York.

How and when did you get into photography?

I loved being alone and looking at old photos in a family photo album all my childhood. All my life, I look at the world as if through a camera lens, so in my head, there is constantly shooting. I always loved to photograph, but the search for myself and my business was long. I started to shoot professionally at 25-26 years old, and I took breaks several times. And only after moving to New York, I began to shoot constantly and fully work as a photographer.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography is my way of seeing this world and a means to show people the beauty of this world. This is my realization and part of me. I cannot imagine my life without a photography.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I do fashion photography, model tests, and I shoot portraits and lifestyle photoshoots on the streets of New York with the spirit and energy of this incredible city.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I am inspired from various sources that I love. First, real life. I like to look at people around, walk around the city and feel the flow of different lives. Also, I am inspired by good cinema, poetry, classical literature and modern art.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

I know what I want to get in the picture, it is always in my head, in my imagination. I never seek references for ideas, and I don’t create mood boards. Everything in my head. But I also always let creativity flow through me and let me to be creative and flexible in the process.

Studio, on location or both?

I shoot a lot on the streets of the city. New York is a huge studio for me. This is an amazing place. Before moving to NY, I was shooting mostly in the studio, and now I also like to shoot in the studio. It depends on the shooting task. But I prefer the streets in New York.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I am a paid professional. I am a commercial photographer, and my professional experience in photography is over 8 years.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

It was a photo session for a new campaign of a famous Italian brand. It was unforgettable because I was also the producer of this shooting, and I created a great team of professionals. It was a very difficult, time consuming, but at the same time interesting and fun shooting day.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I shoot on Nikon, my favorite lens 85 / 1.8

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

Give yourself to the maximum and do not feel sorry for yourself, use all the opportunities, do not be afraid to experiment.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I think you are doing a great job, and this is a wonderful opportunity for many talented people. I wish your magazine growth and great success.

https://www.facebook.com/katmedowaya