Photographer: Kamila Iwona Szymañska @kis.i.s
Makeup Artist: Angela Linares @angielunares
Model: Federica Greppi @federica_greppiKamila, could you please briefly introduce yourself, and tell us about your first encounter with photography? Who has influenced you to start taking photographs?
I have been interested in photography since I was a little girl. At 15, I bought my first camera and spent all my savings on film reels and processing. Professionally I have been in photography for 6 years and it all started when I received a Canon DLSR for payment of modelling work. From that moment I knew that my place was and always will be behind the camera.
From your point of view, what are the most difficult aspects of professional beauty photography?
I think the hardest and most important thing is to find a sufficiently expressive model. A photographer can make a photograph that is technically brilliant, but a great model has the ability to connect with the viewer and take the project to another level. Editing of photography is also very important. It must be subtle and real.
As the expert you are, what are the unique features of this kind of photography and the keys to master it?
Expressive and unique models, subtle editing and lighting. With the right light I can create environments and atmosphere. Beauty photography requires good light.
In your opinion, how beauty is perceived at the present age? What does beauty mean to you personally and what really makes a woman beautiful?
Todays beauty cans have changed a lot. While models classically perceived as beautiful are still sought after, what matters most is individuality and confidence. To me a beautiful woman loves herself and who is proud to be who she is. We all are unique. (and photography has a role to play in embracing how we view ourselves).
Tell us a bit more about your project "Color efflorescence". Is there any particular message you would like to get across to the viewers?
My favorite motif in beauty photography is flowers. I love the diversity, delicacy and colors of plants. I think a beautiful woman is like a flower - unique and unrepeatable. The project aims to give women the confidence to emerge and show their identify and beauty.
Are there any other photographers you lookup? Who?
Cult hero Helmut Newton is my favorite photographer. I also love the work of Annie Leibovitz and Xenia Lau.
You are going about conducting a photoshoot, could you take us through the typical planning process for your images?
First comes the idea of the session, will it be portrait, fashion, fantasy? When I'm clear about what I want to get, I look for a team and location that will enable me to realise my visión. Lighting is very important. Depending on the theme of the session several lighting sets may be required.
In addition to being sharp and well lit, your photos are beautifully edited. What is your retouching/production philosophy?
I try to make editing subtle and realistic. I use photoshop to remove imperfections but without changing the essence of the photo. I love playing with exposure and color, but have a real fondness for pastel colors.
What would be your tips/advice to models looking to expand their portfolio?
Be yourself and try to capture your dreams in front of the camera. Be bold... Shyness is an enemy of photography.
What projects are you working on next, and what are your goals for the future?
Together with my wonderful team, we are preparing a series of photographs based on epic movie scenes like that of the Titanic. A modern take on photography through the lens of nostalgia.
Where can we see more of your works and get connected with you?
They can follow me through all my social media profiles such as Instagram or Facebook.