Hoda Moghadasi
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
My name is Hoda Moghadasi, and I was born in Iran and now live in Vienna. I graduated with a degree in Architecture Design, and I've always been passionate about art, particularly photography. My father enjoyed taking photos for fun, and he gifted me my first camera when I was a child. It was a digital compact Sony camera, and I took many pictures, often missing crucial elements like heads or legs. This experience sparked my interest in photography, leading me to purchase my first negative Nikon camera at the age of 17. Since then, I've captured numerous photographs, and in recent years, I have worked as a freelance photographer specialising in architectural photography.
2. Where did you study photography?
A course in Architecture university and by myself.
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
While I didn't receive any formal training, I did take a lot of pictures in my grandfather's garden in a village in northern Iran.
4. What equipment do you use?
I have a Nikon D90 and a rented Sony Alfa7 for my project. Recently I used my iPhone to take photos.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
I aspire to host a photography exhibition in Vienna and eventually showcase my work to the world.
6. What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
My goal would be to exhibit my work once I win a photography contest or receive an award for my contributions to the field.
7. What inspires your unique storytelling?
Historical buildings and objects. I observe all objects around me a lot and that inspires me all the time.
8. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Minimal, pure and simple.
9. Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Thank you for guiding me toward this photography style; it has motivated me to continue pursuing my passion as a photographer with even greater determination.
10. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
It was a simple architectural photograph capturing one of Antonio Gaudi's remarkable buildings in Barcelona. The structure was filled with fascinating angles and spaces that lent themselves perfectly to photography. I chose this image because it was taken using a simple iPhone function—a long-exposure setting that, with patience, can produce breathtaking results.
11. How has winning an award developed your career?
I believe winning this award would be a source of encouragement for me and could serve as a way to introduce my work to potential clients, demonstrating my capability for success in all aspects of my photography career.
12. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
I like a different genre of photography. Kaveh Golestan was an Iranian photographer who was very talented and famous. Mario Testino is a fashion photographer and Maria Svarbova who is a perfect minimalist photographer.
13. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
Keep working hard and never give up, even in the face of adversity.
14. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Pay attention to details and have a desire.
15. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
I take photographs not because I want to sell them or for any other external reason, but simply because I enjoy the act of capturing moments and creating images that reflect my unique perspective.
16. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I frequently use Google and social media for inspiration, but my love for movies has also played a significant role in shaping my creativity. Watching famous films has helped me stay informed about global trends and has provided me with many ideas. Additionally, reading is a great way to stay updated on various topics and keep my mind fresh with new perspectives.
