Interview: Photographer Milena Mylka Gunia (Poland)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Milena. I am a young, self-taught photographer from a little vilagge. Already I live in Gdańsk-Poland. I work in photographic shop. I am still learning and looking for my style.

How and when did you get into photography?

When i was child, i had a small compact camera. I was taking photos of evertyhing: my family, cats, flowers, trees... and even events at my school. I really loved it. One day I asked my parents for a new camera.They have bought it for me, it was Nikon with a standard lens. I was so happy!!! And again i started shooting everything and everyone. My photographs have been becoming more and more pretty. I started cooperating with new people and inviting them for sessions. I still continue it. It’s been going on for 10 years.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography means well spent time for me. I meet new people, make friends and do cool things. Thanks to photography, i became brave and open-minded.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I like portraits, beauty and fashion photography. Each of my sessions is different. I'm very flexible. Once I feel like delicate portraits and once on high fashion. In my portfolio everyone will find something for himself - from flowers to dark portraits.

Where do you get inspiration from?

For beauty photos i am inspired by ordinary items, i can see something on the street or in the store and get inspired by it. I often add some items to the stylization. I also look at make up photos. And for portraits: beautiful eyes, freckles, hair, places.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

Yes, in the evening, one day before session, I am closing my eyes and i can see everything i would like to do. I always think about place, background, light, make-up, clothing, poses, i'm buying the necessary things... But the best photographs are coming out spontaneously.

Studio, on location or both?

Both, through the whole year i like studio. It's very important for me to have comfortable place to work and a hot tea for my team! Most of my photos i take in my small home studio, but in summer i like leaving it and going outside

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Definitely I consider myself as a hobbyist. I rarely do photographs for money. I hope, during the time it will change.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

I had a lot of memorable sessions, each of them was unique. Different people make a nice atmosphere on the session. It's hard to choose one.

What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?

New people, makeup...

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I started with Nikon, but now i work with Canon. I like lenses with bright light and a long focal length. Now it's 85mm and 70-200. My dream lens is Sigma 150mm macro or Canon 200mm 2,8L :)

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

Firstly: practice, practice and practice. Secondly: don't give up. In my case it works. :)

What do you think of our new magazine?

I really love yours magazine. I saw a few issues and some of my friends has publications in it. It's a great idea and i wish you good luck.

https://www.facebook.com/MylkaPhoto/

mod. Natalia Michalewska, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod. Aleksandra Makiewicz, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod Zuzanna Zatyka-Malva Models, Makeup Monika Szwelicka, dress Magdalena Mól

mod Paulina Krzysztalowicz

mod Klaudia Wielguszewska, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod Natalia Michalewska, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod Irmina Moeller, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod Berenika Godlewska

mod Karolina Piernikowska, makeup Monika Szwelicka

mod Aleksandra Skupinska, makeup Monika Lider