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