Interview: Photographer Robert van Grinsven (The Netherlands)
Can you tell us a little about you?
First of all, thank you for the opportunity of this interview!
My name is Robert van Grinsven, autodidact photographer, living in the oldest city in The Netherlands; Nijmegen. I work at a big IT company as manager and use photography as a creative outlet. I am married and have 2 lovely kids. As I find my family life important and have a full-time job, the time I can spend to photography is sometimes limited.
How and when did you get into photography?
Photography has interested me for the past 40 years, but since 2009 I started to acquire more in-depth knowledge and understanding of photography via online training, books and fellow-enthusiasts. I love wedding photography, but as this is a 'first-time-right' business, I started training myself in seeing the light and understanding posing etc. via model photography (what now I do most).
What does photography mean to you?
Photography not only is my passion, way to express myself, creative outlet, but also has become part of my social life. I love meeting people end hearing their life's stories, beliefs, passions etc. Also sometimes it is an adventure to scout for the perfect location or shooting at locations you never saw as a great scenery for a concept.
Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.
I love playing with light, interacting with the human body.
Where do you get inspiration from?
I get inspiration from social media, things I see around me, online trainings, but also from working with people. The images I love the most create themselves within a location or concept.
Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?
It depends. In assignments, I do it most of the times. But as every individual, location and time of the day is unique, I also let things evolve from a concept.
Studio, on location or both?
I shoot in studio and on location (with OCF if needed)
Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?
I consider myself as a paid hobbyist as the money I earn with photography pays for my equipment, website, occasional workshops, licenses etc
What has been your most memorable session and why?
I have several, for various reasons. The one now on top of my head is the ballet shoot at "De Oversteek". It was a unique evening where we had this iconic bridge completely to ourselves, with great music coming from a party nearby in the background. Formally this was not allowed, but both the security and police understood we could not let this opportunity pass and allowed us there for a while. They even offered us some drinks so we could continue longer.
Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?
I love shooting with my Sony A7IV, whenever possible with my Sigma 105 1.4 lens. The separation you get with this lens I find gorgeous and still it is "light" enough to carry around (instead of f.i. a 200 1.8).
What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?
Follow your own path, but be open to advises from others. Take from that what resonates with you and respectfully discard what doesn't. But always be thankful for the advises you get.
What do you think of our new magazine?
It looks great and is a fantastic opportunity to showcase work.
