Interview: Photographer Rene Erik Olsen (Denmark)

Can you tell us a little about you?

Previously I was a banker, but now my life is photography and painting. I live in Copenhagen in Denmark.

How and when did you get into photography?

I have always been taking photographs. More for fun than for professional reasons. Five years ago I decided to learn how to use flash on and off camera and I have not looked back since.

What does photography mean to you?

I have always been fascinated with catching a moment in time. Be that as a painter or as a photographer. When I paint you have time on your side to a certain degree. When you photograph you are almost always hunting for the right moment or the right expression. As a photographer you never know when or if you ever take “the” picture. That fascinates me.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

As such I do both Portrait, Fashion, Art Nude and Erotic. I have “no” particular “style. I try to be inspired by the model, the setting and by the moment. I try to think creatively and use the light for interesting mood. I often try to create a “painting” in my photography, so both model and light is beautiful.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Inspiration is almost always from the models I meet for a shoot. People inspire me in general.

I do like the portraits of Peter Hurley.

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

No – I have general ideas when I see pictures of a model I do not know in advance. If I have shot with a model before, I may have specific ideas (such as clothes, look and mood).

Studio, on location or both?

I happily work in the studio, large hotel apartments or on location. It is equally inspiring for me. If you shoot a nude model outdoors there is of course things to consider, so that needs a bit more preparation.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I would consider myself a professional and a hobbyist (when I do special shoots).

What has been your most memorable session and why?

Every shoot has its moments – so no models, environments or lighting were particularly special. I would say that on a shoot – the model is the “key” every time and that experience I have at every shoot.

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

My greatest improvement and enjoyment in photography was when I began to work with professional models. It lifted the quality of my pictures and I only use professional models today.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Canon 6D. Lenses Canon 85mm 1.8 and my good old trusty Canon 70-200mm 2.8.

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

Be serious about every aspect, listen to good advice and then - make your own choices.

What do you think of our new magazine?

It is truly phenomenal – a lot of inspiration and I hope the best for many years to come.

Website – www.olree.dk