Interview: Photographer Dan Leszek Kołudzki (Poland)
Can you tell us a little about you?
I was born in Poland in Wrocław, and now I live in the Silesian Province near
Katowice. I've been involved in photography for a long time and I have the impression that it goes through life with me and accompanies me in both nice and less pleasant moments, but it is always a great escape from the hardships of everyday life.
How and when did you get into photography?
To be honest, my photography beginnings were very chaotic: family, macro, celebrations, street, landscapes- I was looking for my own way all the time, but I simply couldn't decide and I was unsatisfied with the results I achieved. A photograph of flowers in the garden taken on 17/03/2015, marked the beginning of my adventure in close up photography.
What does photography mean to you?
For me, photography is a way of life. It's time spent outdoors, where observation of this small ecosystem allows me to look at nature and the surrounding world differently. It fills me with optimism.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I deal with nature photography, so-called close-up photography. I photograph flowers, insects and I try to show the world of plants with my eyes. I would like the viewer to feel invited to this enchanted garden of mine.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I am inspired by the surrounding world, movies, books, and nature. Every time I am in the meadow or forest I lose myself in this living ecosystem... this is a very special moment for me.
Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
Yes, today, when I go outdoors, I know exactly what I want and I assume in advance what kind of frames I want to bring home with me, so I choose the appropriate manual lenses (I photograph only using those) and the right time of the day. Light is the key in my photography.
Studio, on location or both?
My photography is pure nature and each frame is taken outdoors, in a natural setting. These are meadows, forests, I also visit home gardens. Everywhere where can I find something interesting worth photographing.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
Photography is my hobby, and I am a typical amateur running around the meadows with my camera.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
The most important was the first one that directed my interest in nature photography. It changed my imagination and the way I perceive beauty in the common plants.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Definitely the one I have at hand. I was a Canon and Olympus user before and now I own a Sony, and I must say that we like each other very much... Lens? There are several of themand I cannot choose just one, but ias I said before I use only manual lenses.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
The most important thing is to stick to the path you are taking. It's important not to pay attention to biting remarks and comments from others, but at all costs strive to develop your own unprecedented style. It should be a priority for every photographer.
What do you think of our new magazine?
It is a great place for all the photographers. In a way it's a bridge connecting photographers from all around the world and I'm grateful that I can be one of them.
