Interview: Photographer Andra Victoria (Romania)

Can you tell us a little about you?

Hello! My name is Andra, I live in Bucharest, Romania and I am a photographer.

How and when did you get into photography? The story of my photos starts 5 years ago. I was a child with many ideas who always wanted to be able to express herself. From the growing desire to create that I had, I started to do things like painting, dancing, singing, and finally I got to take photos. That moment was “THE MOMENT” when I said, from the bottom of my heart, that this is what I want to do from now on.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography is for me the best form of art by which I can express myself, create and convey all my ideas and vision out. Photography - a big responsibility that turns into satisfaction after you've done some hard work.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

Most photographers out there have a distinct photography style, I know that, but personally, I don't have one yet. I cannot define my style, because every person I work with is different, and what I want to do with everyone it’s to give them space to express themselves in their own way. This is how my undefined “style” was born. I don't like to confine myself to a particular style, because I feel I’m limiting myself and my imagination. A good photographer, in my opinion, is the one who knows how to handle in any condition and can work with anyone.

Where do you get inspiration from? Photography is one of these art forms that is constant evolving. I take inspiration from everyday life, whatever I see or hear. Also, I am inspired by the works of the two famous photographers: Helmut Newton and Annie Leibovitz. If you have an open mind anything around can help and inspire you!

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture ?

It always depends on who I work with and how much freedom they offer me. Sometimes, I set up a project in time, I put the result in my mind and everything is thought out. Other times, on the other hand, I leave my imagination to think for me, so in the end I get natural, expresive and emotional pictures.

Studio, on location or both?

On location, certainly. I love natural light! A big amount of the photo sessions I have achieved so far were the source of natural light. I think it suits me best. On the other hand, I have worked several times with the studio lights. I also like this style, it's interesting and complex, but it doesn't define me so well at the moment.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” “Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it." I don’t think I could formulate a better answer than these quotes from I guide myself when it comes to photography.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

In my wish to capture more of a woman's nature, I had the opportunity to take pictures of an naked, thin and vulnerable body. It was one of the most beautiful experience, because she had the courage to display this way in front of my camera and showed me that you should never be ashamed of yourself and your body. You have to trust and be proud of what you are! A woman, a camera and a dim light were needed to take these images that I watch and am proud of now.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

My favorite is Canon, of course. Preferred lens, 70-200mm and 24-70mm.

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

I'd tell him to believe in his instinct. If he thinks he needs to do this, start studying the art of photography, just do it! You have to learn a lot, experience until you get better and better with every day that passes. If you are not sure and you start asking everyone whether you should do or not do, you should definitely not get started. If you need the othes’ opinions and external validation to do something, however small it may be, it simply don’t!

What do you think of our new magazine?

I love your magazine. It is a new, fresh publication that I hope will get as far as possible. I like your own nice concept of promoting talented people from this industry. Last but not least, I would like to thank you lot for your invitation and this unique experience that you gave me to express myself, my emotions and my feelings throughout your wonderful magazine and i wish you all the best and good luck with your carrier.

Instagram: @andravictoriaphographic