Interview: Photographer Örkény Zsombor (Italy)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I was born in Budapest, but so far I have spent most of my life in Italy. I live in Milan and I study photography in Mohole. I am a hiker, a type of traveler. Mountains, seas, parks, they all pass. I'm fine everywhere, but at home I'm the happiest. I've always been attracted to artistic things, even when I didn't understand a thing. By now I have realized that I can find art in everything and if I understand its meaning, its beauty, it makes my day happy.

How and when did you get into photography?

It is difficult to remember. Photography has always been there, although technically I didn't understand much of it. My father's Kodak camera was still a game, the Sony Nex that I bought 10 years ago already gave me a hobby and 2 years ago I started knowingly photographing with Fujifilm. In Milan, I decided to take photography to a more serious level. Closely related to the topic of this decision, I must say that the role of the companion of my life - Georgina Hobor - played a very important role, which I initially accompanied and helped with the photographic work, and therefore I was able to see and learn. I could say that I'm more advanced in portrait photography, but it's not the only thing that really attracts me. The trips with my father to Hungary and the frequent trips with my partner to Italy have fascinated me with natural and human constructions, which in some way I will try to convey to people.

What does photography mean to you?

A direction, a mania, a communication, an emotional decision, I have not yet formulated it. It separates over time.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

This is a difficult question. I still don't know which folder to put myself in. My style is a little confused right now. Ownership for beginners is "I try everything". This approach is simplified and clarified over time.

Where do you get inspiration from?

In the field of the profession, information flows through all channels, it is very difficult not to be inspired.

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

I usually start the day with ready-made plans and it can vary depending on the circumstances, but essentially I get what I want, otherwise no party.

Studio, on location or both?

Both. Although I prefer the location chosen outside, but it's just a matter of plan.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Neither. I am no longer a hobby photographer, but contrary to my technical knowledge, I am not of a high standard in terms of equipment, so I still cannot call myself a professional. In the current situation, if I am contacted with an attractive professional invitation that helps to add something more to my portfolio, we will discuss the terms, but otherwise I will only undertake paid work.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

The most memorable of my photos are taken at home. I’m a lucky guy because I have a supermodel girlfriend who’s very professional and she has a creative idee and two beautiful bengal cats. So I always have easy things at home and good photos are guaranteed and from there the day remains memorable. If I work in a family environment, even if I am in a studio, the job is great, to the point that I don't even consider it a job.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Big brands, with better lenses than the best ones and without a doubt Canon has very high level lenses, but none of these are my favorite ones.Fuji is my favorite, absolutely value for money.

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

I'm new too, but all I can say is that you don't need expensive supplies in the beginning. When you finally learn the profession, you would unnecessarily waste expensive equipment. All you need is a good camera but with an excellent lens (not necessarily expensive), many ideas, but even more books or things to learn and inspire. These conditions are equivalent to a school.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I still have many old Modellenland issues. With colorful and interesting personalities, many photographic collections. I hope that with my performance I have been able to add it to the newspaper level.

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