BEHIND THE CAMERA: DANNY LA VEGA
Behind the Camera
For a couple of weeks, we did an interview with the fashion model Alexandra Kolossov but going through her photos, I discover a super cool photograph, and I really wanted to know who was behind the camera. Danny La Vega is a passionate young photographer who is making a name as a photographer here in Vienna, and we interview him, to know more about his work and how this passion started.
When did you first get interested in photography? What sparked it, and when did you decide that it was what you were going to do?
Photography is actually a very young passion of mine. I’ve always enjoyed the art of photography, but what really sparked it was Instagram. Originally I started using the app to promote my work as a DJ & musician. Browsing through my newsfeed I constantly discovered stunning work. One day I said to myself that I want to be part of this and create something that people can enjoy.
Were you educated in photography, or are you self taught?
I never thought about taking photography classes. In my opinion, photography is something intuitive, something that comes from within – technical aspects can be taught, but in the end, it’s your creativity and vision that makes the picture.
What camera do you use the majority of the time?
Currently, I’m working with an Alpha 7R2 – but I also love to use my Yashica T4.
You mostly focus on fashion photography. Once you’ve mastered this, is there any other type of photography you’re looking to move into?
There is still so much to learn and discover about fashion photography, that I didn’t even think about moving into new spheres. What I know for sure is that I want to keep working with interesting individuals. At this point, I don’t care about how people might call it. In the end, I just want to create pictures that catch the heart and evoke instant emotions.
Comparing where you are now with where you were when you first started, what could you have done differently to get to where you are sooner?
I enjoyed every step of the journey so far and I really don’t know what I would have done differently to get to where I am today. Try to make every day count and don’t let yourself be worried too much about the future – since, to be honest, I never expected to be at this point at all.
You’ve clearly worked with a wide range of models. What tips can you recommend to people looking to expand their portfolio?
Be patient and take one step at a time. Get a clear vision of what you’re trying to achieve and then have fun. You are about to create something beautiful, so better enjoy the process and don’t get distracted by what someone else might think.
Describe a typical shoot.
My shoots are pretty laid back. I’ll put some music on and try to get to know the people I’m working with. When working with a big team, I make sure that somebody’s taking care of the organizational things, so I can focus on the image in my head.
How much time do you spend taking photos, versus retouching photos?
At the moment I’m spending more time behind the computer than actually shooting, but I see this as a part of the job and enjoy the process. Some people will know how much time was spent in darkrooms to develop negatives – the same is true for digital photography and post-production. There is so much space for additional creativity in your post-production. Movies always inspire me, especially when it comes to colors. Colour grading is probably the thing I tend to spend the most time on.
Favorite accessory?
On-Camera Flash
Who would you like to work with most?
Jasmine “Golden Barbie” Sanders
Favorite photography book?
Mario Testino Private ViewView
To know more about this amazing photograph, please visit: Danny La Vega
