Interview: Photographer Damian Drewniak (Poland)

Can you tell us a little about you?

Hi. I am 42 years old, unfortunately every year more :) I live in Czestochowa, a city known primarily from the monastery in Jasna Góra. I have a wonderful family that gives me a lot of energy. I am passionate about art and good music. I try to live by faith, be good and give as much good to others as possible. I believe that good comes back. Besides, I live like any other person. I am lucky that by doing what I love, I can earn money to support myself and my family.

How and when did you get into photography?

The answer is not clear. In fact, I've always had my camera with me ... but conscious photography has been with me for about 5-6 years

What does photography mean to you?

Everything. It's a way of expressing myself. To present my own imagination. A way to relax. It's also a way to earn money. it's my hobby, passion. This is my music, lyrics and air. It's something that makes me meet lots of fantastic people.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I don't really know how I could summarize it. Maybe it's a surreal portrait, or maybe melancholic stories of loneliness. Certainly it is a lyrical photo because in addition to the image, invisible content matters to me. I always try to tell a story thanks my pictures, I try to pull the viewer into trying to interpret what he sees in his own way

Where do you get inspiration from?

Inspirations sometimes lie on the street. Sometimes it's our everyday behavior. It happens that the inspiration is a place where I come across by accident. Painting gives me a lot of energy to create. I love the paintings of Vermeer, Edward Hopper.

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

Yes, of course ... always. The basis is planning everything. Beginning with the story I want to tell, through composition and colors. They never shoot spontaneously. Preparations always take me much more time than the photoshoot itself

Studio, on location or both?

I feel limited in the studio. I prefer open space or atmospheric interiors. I always take photographs using natural light.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Both. As I said before, photography is my passion and I also have a way to earn money to support my family. I am lucky to be able to combine one with the other. There is a saying in Poland. Do what you love and you'll never work. I am doing it for now and I`m very happy with that

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

It's difficult, I have the impression that my view of business is very old-fashioned. The most important for me is human. If I work with a client, I try to listen to him above all. If I come to the conclusion that realizing myself, I can also meet customer expectations, then I accept the order. If not, I suggest other photographers to the client. I don't want to do anything by force. The most important thing is to be yourself, photograph with your heart, give the best to others .... I think that if you stick to these principles, money will come by itself. Be yourself

What has been your most memorable session and why?

It may be an evasive answer, but I think such a session is still ahead of me. There are many photos of which I am really happy and it would be difficult for me to point out this one

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I use Nikon but I support the theory that a brand of equipment is the least important thing. I take pictures with my heart, eye .... equipment is just a supplement. When it comes to lenses, my favorites are 85mm and 135mm 1.8

What do you think of our new magazine?

I appreciate what you do. I see that you are guided by good taste, the more I'm happy that you want me to be part of one of your magazines. You promote good art, good photographers. Well done :)

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