Interview: Photographer Andreas Reiter (Germany)
Can you tell us a little about you?
My name is Andi, born in germany. My mother is Italian and I am happy to speak the Italian language perfectly. I am a beauty photographer, product photographer and retoucher. Most of the time I work with my wife, who is a make-up artist and my assistant. That makes life easier. I take pictures for various companies and agencies, sometimes I also photograph weddings - you should take advantage of the variety in photography. I have a little daughter that means everything to me. Of course, I try to devote the little free time to her.
How and when did you get into photography?
I started photography in 2014 as a hobby. First I photographed in nature - I love landscape photography. Unfortunately, now the time is missing for that. A little bit later
I came by chance to people photography, mostly on the street, in narrow streets you can influence the light very well. Now for a good year I photograph mainly beauty and products.
What does photography mean to you?
With photography you can express everything you feel. For me personally it means creativity, variety, relaxation ... It is like a kind of therapy. Photography can change a person. Of course there are also very stressful moments but that's what makes it so exciting and varied.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
Photography is often explained in a complicated way... I try to keep it simple. I usually shoot beauty with just one flash and reflectors to brighten up the shadows. Less is often more. In the editing I try to keep my pictures clean and natural. I love textures and that's why I love close ups of beautiful skin or macros of products. The better you photograph, the less time it takes to retouch, That's why I always tether in my laptop, so the whole team can control and correct if necessary.
Studio, on location or both?
I would say 95% in the studio.
Where do you get inspiration from?
Other creatives, even those who are not necessarily involved with the photography industry. You see so many pictures today that you have to choose well from what or whom you want to get inspired. Social media is a nice thing but you have to be careful that it does not get out of hand.
Think you in advance what you want in the picture?
Yes. In my opinion you should always have a plan - at least in which direction you want to go. Especially when working with a team. If it does not work, you have to improvise of course.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
A professional should always have the passion of a hobby photographer. But you should not sell your work below value. I think a mix of both makes it perfect. I'm a photo lover and lucky enough to earn money with it.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
What always stays in my head is the fashion shoot with Vicky Sonntag in a large swimming pool. The staff has closed the whole area for our team. It was September of last year, the weather was incredibly hot, the sun was beating and we did not have much time. In those few hours, I've learned to deal with very harsh sunlight. Opposite the swimming pool was a construction site. Of course Vicky did not have much clothes on. I think it was the day the construction workers made the least :)
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Since the beginning I actually only used Nikon. Sure, the camera models have changed, but I'm very happy with Nikon. My favorite lens is the 105mm Macro. It's perfect for beauty and product photography.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
Stay true to yourself and don`t give up. It will not always be easy, but patience, perseverance and hard work will be worthwhile. Never stop learning. A camera, lens or flash can be replaced if it is broken but you can never replace knowledge.
What do you think of our new magazine?
It's very important that such magazines exist and one of the best thing about it is that you can read the stories of the artists.
Model: Bertile Fry - Hair & Make Up: Manuela Reite
Model: Viktoria Sonntag - Hair & Make Up: Manuela Reiter
Model: Vanessa Adesina - Hair & Make Up: Manuela Reite
Model: Anabel Fanke - Hair & Make Up: Manuela Reiter
