Page 18 - Demo

Q: How do you approach conceptualizing and planning a new photographic project?A: When conceptualizing and planning a new photographic project, I start with a simple yet effective tool: a notebook. Jotting down ideas and brainstorming on paper helps me organize my thoughts and develop a clear vision. I begin with a central theme or concept and build around it by exploring various elements such as location, lighting, subjects, and props.I also consider the story I want to tell through my photographs. Each project is an opportunity to convey a narrative or evoke specific emotions, so I think about how different components can work together to achieve that goal. I sketch out ideas, note potential challenges, and outline the steps needed to bring the concept to life.Q: What techniques or styles do you specialize in, and why do they appeal to you?A: Most recently, I have become an educator in the field of AI, seizing the wave of the future and teaching the positive aspects and potential of this technology. At first I was skeptical about AI, but after spending a week in a class with a photographer that is also a physicist, made me feel that AI in photography editing and compositing is okay.However, the work I%u2019m showcasing here focuses on my digital paintings created in Photoshop from my own photography. I specialize in transforming photographs of zoo animals and domestic animals into illustrative paintings. This process involves numerous steps, starting with the original photograph and then building it up through layers of digital painting techniques. I meticulously work on each layer to add depth, texture, and artistic elements that transform the image into a unique piece of art.This style appeals to me because it allows me to combine my love for animals with my passion for digital art. It%u2019s incredibly rewarding to see an image evolve from a simple photograph into a detailed and expressive painting. The process challenges my creativity and technical skills, and it%u2019s always exciting to see the final result. By blending traditional artistic techniques with modern technology, I%u2019m able to create works that are both visually stunning and deeply personal.Q: How do you balance your roles as both a photographer and an artist in your work?A: For me, there is little separation between my roles as a photographer and an artist. My photography is the foundation of the art I create, and the two are deeply intertwined. I don%u2019t see myself strictly as a %u201cphotographer%u201d but more as an %u201cartist%u201d who uses photography as a starting point for my creative process.When I capture an image, I%u2019m already envisioning the final piece of art it will become. The photograph is just the first step in a journey that involves transforming it through digital painting and other techniques. This seamless integration allows me to fully express my creativity and bring my visions to life. By viewing photography as an integral part of my artistic process, I maintain a harmonious balance between the two. Each photograph I take is not just a moment captured but a canvas waiting to be enhanced and evolved into a unique piece of art. This approach allows me to continually innovate and push the boundaries of both photography and digital art.Q: What are some challenges you face in maintaining creativity and originality in your projects?A: One of the biggest challenges I face in maintaining creativity and originality is simply that the days are too short. I have so many ideas and concepts I want to explore, but finding the time to bring them all to life can be difficult. Balancing my various roles and responsibilities means I have to be very disciplined with my time and prioritize my projects carefully.Another challenge is the pursuit of originality. In a world saturated with images and art, trying to create something that hasn%u2019t been seen before is a constant struggle. It requires a lot of experimentation and a willingness to take risks.To overcome this, I draw inspiration from diverse sources and continually push myself to think outside the box. Whether it%u2019s through new techniques, blending different art forms, or exploring unconventional subjects, I strive to keep my work fresh and unique.Staying curious and open to learning is also crucial. By continuously expanding my skill set and embracing new technologies, like AI in art, I can keep evolving and finding new ways to express my creativity. This mindset helps me navigate the challenges and maintain a steady flow of innovative and original work.18 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 48