Gaspar Marquez
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
My name is Gaspar Marquez, and although I currently live in Brooklyn, New York, I was born and raised in Mexico. Since I was very young, I have always been attracted to photography. I used to flip through mom's magazines like Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Vanidades, etc., and comment on the photos, thinking I could take better pictures! Interestingly, I don't think the sharpness or composition of this photo appeals to me. Who knows? I found the act of capturing a moment in a frame quite impressive.
2. Where did you study photography?
I consider myself a self-taught photographer who has learned a great deal about technical photography literature, including how to develop your own film, print, mount, and present your images. Nevertheless, I took the main foundation course in San Francisco, California. Over the years, I also worked as a teaching assistant at the School of Visual Arts and the International Center School of Photography in New York. I also have a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration.
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
Not really, but when I was younger, I would borrow my mom's camera to shoot and have fun and explore.
4. What equipment do you use?
I used Canon 5D Mark 2 and Polaroid film, and Canon AE1 film. I'm a very light photographer. I have three or four external flashes, so whether I'm hiking or heading into the desert, I don't need to carry a bulky power pack and flash. For shooting in the studio, I also brought about 2,000 Norman power packs and flash.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
To inspire future generations and push fine art nudity into more modern science and technology, I wanted to leave a bad ass legacy in my portfolio. And gain recognition as an excellent artistic, avant-garde nude photographer.
6. What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
I think it was when I was a student at SVA in New York. I sent my homework to my teacher who, after reading it, replied, "I've never seen anything like it, you don't have to come to my class anymore, it's up to you!" Everything is ready for you! Just get to the finals!
7. What inspires your unique storytelling?
The naked body of the female attracted me. This is where I get my inspiration, and I'm always compelled to photograph it because, deep down, I want to capture the spirit of perfect female beauty.
8. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Avant-garde, contemporary, erotic.
9. Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
It's an honour to have my work recognised. I find it really energises and motivates me to keep shooting and pushing my work forward.
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 don't know how to put it, but I think it has something to do with a person's determination and confidence to think their work is worth it! After years of research, filming, honing one's style, trial and error, inspiration, strong drive, and a lot of hard work, it's just something one feels and believes in! I chose the European Photography Awards because, for some reason, I thought we were on the same page or had something in common. It is also very modern and cosmopolitan.
11. How has winning an award developed your career?
As an artist and professional, it gives you greater weight, status, confidence and self-esteem and feels great inside. Needless to say, it makes you feel good when your friends or other members of your social circle tell you they've seen my accolades online or elsewhere.
12. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Man Ray.
Nick Knight.
Helmut Newton.
13. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
I was advised to keep doing what I loved, no matter what others thought. Just keep shooting and follow your passion!
14. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
No doubt the same! Continue perfecting your style while photographing what you like. Explore galleries, museums, publications, books, social media, and other online and offline resources to stay abreast of the latest developments in technology and knowledge.
15. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Success is a state of mind! However, I believe what you're really saying is discover what drives you, fall in love with photography, and then push yourself to the limit next time. It's a never-ending cycle!
16. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I love this process! Since these are all part of the interview, I even like to fill out these forms. It's part of my life, my work and my photography. I also browse galleries online for inspiration. People, movies, museums, etc.
17. Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
It is important to note that becoming a fine art nude photographer is not a career that can be pursued right after graduation. It took me some time to find it, investigate it, believe in it, develop my art, perfect it, and share it with the world, but in my case, I think I always had it.
There is no established route to achievement or anything like that; You forge your own path as you go! It's your gift to read signs, follow your instincts, and most importantly, have fun on the road! Don't be afraid!
