Interview: Photographer Jessika Romero (Spain)
Can you tell us a little about you?
My name is Jessika Romero, I am 34 years old, I live in Seville (Andalusia) Spain, I consider myself artistic, sensitive and very spiritual. I value the little things, I live in my own inner world, I constantly try to express myself and capture through writing and photography each of the emotions and feelings that live in me and show it to the world without fear. I try to leave my personal mark on each of my photographs, beyond the rules, limitations and prejudices... From the best intention and the purest of feelings.
How and when did you start in photography?
At 18 years of age I started in the world of fashion as a photo model, This led me to live more than 10 years of experiences in front of the camera which I enjoyed very much, I challenged myself, I defeated my complexes and I met many wonderful people. Photography always caught my attention, although I never had anything scheduled. 5 years ago I had the opportunity to buy my first camera, at first the idea was to motivate myself with a new hobby, but as time went by it became a way of life, of expression, a vice that once you try it is impossible to get out of the. The camera became my companion, photography was my medicine, photography is my angel.
What does photography mean to you?
I have always been a storyteller... Photography is a link between the vision of my mind and myself, to transcend to tell with images what I want to convey...
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
My style of photography is characterized by the use of black and white as an emotional vehicle, I am a painter of light and shadows, I try to represent women in a deep way and without artifice, in which makeup and even clothes functioned only as background sound. Although I don't like to pigeonhole myself into a single style, I am curious and try to break my own limits. My purpose is to be able to make others happy, showing them their true brightness and beauty, the one they never dared to see for themselves.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I think that the smallest thing, any little detail can be a source of inspiration. I tend to constantly see photographs, paintings and fashion editorials, they are a great inspiration and learning guide. The education of the eye and creativity are very important factors for a photographer. If I had to name a photographer, Peter Limberhg is my reference. But my main source of inspiration always comes from the person who poses in front of my lens, I turn them into my muses, the true essence of each person is a different "perfume" I just try to describe it and capture it in the best way I know, for the humility and the passion I have for my work.
Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
I usually carry a base in my imagination, to work through it, but I like surprises, living in the moment and telling the story along the way. Enjoy and savor it little by little, I'm not looking for perfection, every imperfection can also be beauty. In the meantime is when magic arises, the result is the reflection of it. Although my motto is always present; “Less is always more”.
Studio, on location or both?
It depends on the results you are looking for, both are important. I learn a lot both in the wonderful natural study that we all have, that privilege that is a gift within everyone's reach, and in a photography studio with artificial light which leads me to develop other tools and skills as a photographer without any limits. I enjoy in any scenario, I consider that variety is the pleasure and taste of choosing, diversity and contrast usually please.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I am always an amateur, even if the session or the work I do is paid. I am an amateur because I always consider that I must learn more, and that is the magic of photography, that is the motivation, something new is learned every day, experiences enrich us, mistakes are small obstacles full of learning.
Where is the limit? I value my work and I am happy with what I am building little by little, in the end I think the photos speak for themselves. The value is not reduced to the material, although we live from this profession to cope with the day to day of our lives. Professionalism is a seal that should not be linked to money, I think it is linked to the personality of each one, whatever the profession you perform.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
They have all been memorable, they all have their stories behind them. My self-portrait sessions are moments with me alone, in my privacy. They take me away from bad days, I disconnect from the outside world and I manage to completely forget about any problem I may have. The sessions that I do with other people show me other visions of different lives, for a moment I put myself in another skin witnessing how a person tries to overcome part of their fears and complexes that live in their minds, it is very nice to see that metamorphosis, as they trust in themselves and little by little they dare to be, they show themselves without masks and dare to fly.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Although a good photography equipment is important for a photographer and can facilitate the path to the result, I consider that learning and knowing how to handle it correctly is more important. I started with Canon, I have become familiar with it, I have a lot of affection for it, an emotional bond unites me. In the future I don't know what can happen, I can't deduce beyond what I know and I don't close myself to using other photography tools and enjoying them. My favorite lenses are the 85mm and the 35mm sigma art, they are the ones I use the most in my photographs.
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer to a new photographer looking to start their own business?
My advice is always to dare, if it is what makes you happy you have to dare and fight for your dreams. We will go through different stages, both bad and good, and all of them will have a significant purpose of learning and personal and professional development. You don't have to be afraid, you just have to project it in your mind and take steps every day. Dreams come true but first you must believe it, believe in yourself.
What do you think of our new magazine?
I believe that Modellenland Magazine is a meeting point for photographers, models and fashion professionals, a showcase of recognition, where we can enjoy each other. A museum of Inspiration and illusions. A recognition of the effort, a reward. I appreciate the appreciation of my work and being able to be part of your family, thanks for the opportunity, it means a lot to me. Thank you for letting me share part of my world in your own.
Kind regards, Jessika Romero.
https://www.behance.net/romerojessc58e
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