Interview: Photographer Jakub Specylak (Poland)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I'm Jakub Specylak, also known as FLTM. I'm freelance photographer based in Wroclaw, Poland. I've been taking photos for 3 years and specialize in streetwear photography.

How and when did you get into photography?

I bought my first camera in 2015. I used to ride bmx and I had wrist injury and I decided to recording my friends on bmx when I couldn't ride any longer. After couple months I realized I much prefer taking photos instead making videos. After this I had a break with camera. I came back to taking photos after year or two and stared with photos on concerts. The real breakthrough happened at the beginning of 2018 when I made first session with models. 2018 was very busy for me because I've had 51 photo sessions and I still work full time as graphic designer, but I hope it is just the beginning of my journey ;)

What does photography mean to you?

It's hard question but I'm sure it's very important part of my life. I still looking for inspirations, think about next session. Right now I can't wait for good weather and start shooting.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I think the best word to describe my style is "streetwear". I really enjoy urban photos with concrete in the background. My dream job is to make lookbooks for streetwear brands in Poland or even abroad. I think I feel really good in this style but every now and then I take a different picture just to avoid monothony.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Instagram is the most-used app in my phone, but I try to looking for inspiration everywhere. From my favourites photographers or interesting place.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

No, hah, I'm only set up models' outfits before the sessions and somewhat pick the session's subject. I also usually set the session's location up after discussing it with a model, but it usually ends up a spontanious decision anyway.

Studio, on location or both?

Definitely location, but when weather sucks like right now I have to take a photos in studio or at my house. But I think this winter break from street session is very good because I try very new things and learn a lot.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I think somewhere in between, but my goal is become full time professional photographer in future.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

I think my "Projekt Chemia". I've done it with my friend Karol, It was biggest session in my career, almost 13hours of work and more than 3000 photos. You can read more about it on my website

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I have been used Canon from beginning of my photography. but I'm far from attending the Nikon vs Canon fan war. If I will have to choose only one lens it will be Sigma 35mm 1.4.

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

Be patient, I think is the really important. Many photographers at the beginning of career want to make cash as soon as possible but it's really hard. Don't give up, try and learn ;)

What do you think of our new magazine?

I really like it. Always read everything and looking for inspirations. I appreciate that I can be part of it right now.

instagram @fltm.photo - website http://fltm.photo

Nikola Solarczyk

Patrycja Penszko-Oskar Litorowicz