Interview: Photographer Olga Gasnier (France)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m a fashion photographer based in Paris. I started my career back in 2015 in Russia. My passion in photography is to help brands in creating their visual identity in photographs and tell their beautiful stories.

How and when did you get into photography?

Since the early childhood my « best friend » was a pencil, I drew sketches everywhere, that’s how I found myself in the School of Arts. One day I opened for myself a photography as a mean of self-expression and discovering the world. I remember myself being keen on fashion, but I started with portraits. Few years after, in 2015 I established a fashion photography brand and now I continue to enjoy photography every day in the studio in the heart of Paris in the 4th arrondissement.

What does photography mean to you?

When I come into studio - I feel myself being at home. When I take the camera I have so much energy. So photography means a world to me. I love the emotions that I receive from taking photos of people and their creations, as I always receive a positive feedback. Now I’m focused on the new brands and working with independent designers, as I admire their passion.

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

Yes, sure, for me shooting is 60% of preparation and 40% of improvisation. Nothing should distract the photographer and the model in the moment, so before I think about the result, create the moodboard and discuss the references and details with my team.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

It’s difficult for me to describe my style, because every shooting for me is special. The model, the mood, the light and the style inspire me each time. For me - less is more, and if we can simplify the image, I do it without any hesitations. Too strong light? - we soften it. Too many accessories? - we remove them. Too much drama? - we calm down. All these decisions make an image more realistic, but never boring. I’m also not a fan of over retouched images with not natural emotions. Models tell me that they like to work with me, because I have a gentle character and I never create a mess and a stress on the set. That also explains, why I invite to my team only positive and confident professionals.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I take inspiration in art and in life. For example, my last editor for L’Officiel « Exceptionnelle » was inspired by the exhibition « Mercury and Venus » by Viviane Sassen that I visited in Huis Marseille gallery (Amsterdam). We amalgamated the aesthetics of antiquity and vivid colours, creating a static and relaxed mood. During the shooting I’m always inspired by the model and everything that surrounds her or him. It’s a wonderful feeling when you got that image where everything matches beautifully.

Studio, on location or both?

It depends on the aim, how we can compare winds and waves of Étretat and perfect light scheme is the studio? I love both. Moreover, I use my mobile studio to be sure everything is under control even on the location.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I consider myself being lucky as I have the possibility to make profession out of my hobby.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

My the most memorable session was an editorial shooting on a yacht with a great team. I was born and raised by the Black Sea, so water gives me so much energy and inspiration.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I’m a « canonist », my favorite lenses are universal Canon f4 24-105, f2.8 70-200mm and for portraits Sigma 1.4 50mm.

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

If we are talking about the business, it’s important to have all the documentation, as we have a lot of nuances in the photography. The other advice is to create different PDF-portfolio books and be ready to send them to the clients. It’s also necessary to organise your working routine, because when we are talking about photography as a business it’s also marketing, PR, accounting and many other things you should take care about. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for help of the other professionals to grow your business efficiently.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I was glad to discover for myself ModellenLand Magazine and I find it being a perfect platform for photographers to share their passion. The editorials are so different, I always read the magazine from the first to the last page with a sincere curiosity. I think that the team of ModellenLand Magazine does a great job! Thank you for an invitation!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aglography

Website: www.aglography.com

Instagram: @olga.gasnier