Desiree Sydow
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
Hi, I
2. Where did you study photography?
I learned the majority of my photography skills during a one year course at City Lit in London, UK. I did consider going back to university, but I couldn
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
I do remember the first shot that got me very passionate about photography
4. What equipment do you use?
I have used a Nikon D750 for the last years and recently also got a Nikon Z30 which is great for shoots during my travels as it is nice and light. I also use studio flashes and some light modifier for my self-portraits. My favourite accessory is my small beauty dish that creates beautiful light.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
So much! I would love to keep improving, win more competitions and be published in different fine art photography magazines. I also write a photography blog and want to expand the educational side of my business, i.e. teach others how to take fine art self portraits and how to start a photography business.
6. What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
A friend recently told me that my images always make her
7. What inspires your unique storytelling?
Pretty much anything and everything: classical painting, fashion photography, symbolism and dreams, particular colour combinations, my own emotional landscape, classical music
8. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Evocative, dreamlike, moody
9. Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
I
10. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
I entered this image because it
11. How has winning an award developed your career?
It
12. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Lidia Vives, Brooke Shaden
13. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
The camera is just a tool
14. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
I would say that there is space for everybody in photography. When I started out, I thought photography wasn
15. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
I think it's very important to establish a creative routine - for example, I aim for one shoot every week. It's best not to wait for inspiration but to show up regularly and just create something, to keep going even when you don't feel inspired - that's often when I create my best work. Also, don't be intimidated by expensive gear or things you`re meant to have
16. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I can
17. Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
Just thank you again for the award! And for this interview :-)
