Interview: Photographer Marsel Aljammal (Syria)
Can you tell us a little about you?
Hello everyone, let me give a quick introduction about myself. My name is Marsel Aljammal and I live in a city in the middle of Syria. I am 44 years old and I'm married with 2 kids. My occupation is making hand-made jewelry. I started by photography journey only 3 years ago. The camera I started with and still currently using is Crop frame camera . Most of the photographs I take are in the studio I have set up at home studio lights .
How and when did you get into photography? I started drawing when I was young and I remained a fan of drawing and Fine Arts, and I continued to follow artists and new updates about art, especially photography. Due to the outbreak of the war in Syria that lasted ten years and as a result of great psychological pressure, I decided to escape to art by purchasing a professional camera, and within three years I prepared myself well.
What does photographymean to you?
Photography is one of the great arts that allows you to be creative and translate your ideas through the image. Photography is light, idea and moment with a magic template. It is the place where I cast my worries, grief and struggles and turned them into creativity.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I photograph in Fine Art Portrait, which is one of the styles of portraits, which is a very special and distinctive style and depends on the production of works that are somewhat similar to paintings and drawings, especially the old ones in the Renaissance. I developed my style of photography and editing without relying on any paid lessons, workshops or purchasing special filters.
Where do you get inspiration from? I take inspiration from Renaissance artists old masters , especially Dutch painters such as ( Rembrandt - Johannes Fremier - Whistler and Van Gogh) and what memory (visual nutrition) stores throughout the days, as well as from some international films.
Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
Yes, of course. Most of my work, especially fine art portrait , was planned in advance and accurately (idea, type of lighting, posing , clothes) and when i shot most of it is under my control. As for the photos of street life, I sometimes plan it and sometimes leave it up to whatever happens in the moment.
Studio, on location or both?
I prefer the studio, and given that I shoot mostly low key I need to control the light completely without interference from any out of control light source.
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I am a complete hobbyist, I never get any money from anyone and all of the characters I portray are my personal choice and fit the idea I am implementing.
What has been your most memorable session and why?
The first planned photo session in the (Artistic Photo) was titled "The Writer", which is what started my journey and love for this hobby. I recieved great approval and support from my friends and family. They gave me great motivation to continue through this very difficult journey.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
Honestly, I do not care about the camera because it does not significantly affect the beauty of photography as I shoot with the crop frame camera . My favorite lens is (24-70 .. f 2.8 )
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
My advice to new photographer beginning their journey is not to chase after the newest and most expensive camera, these ads are only for commercial marketing. Also I would advise them to persevere in their work and ask and consult those with experience. My advice is also to pay attention to the image with its most important details, as if it will be printed, not just for social media.
What do you think of our new magazine?
12- I am pleased to have to opportunity to share my experience with you in your distinguished and diverse magazine that is interested in fine and beautiful arts, and I wish you all success.
