Spotlight Interview … Fashion Photographer Iakovos Kalaitzakis
JRP Blog is pleased to feature the photographic world of Fashion Photographer Iakovos Kalaitzakis. Thank you Iakovos for sharing a few moments with JRP Blog’s readers.
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: Thank you too!
JRP: Where do you call home Iakovos?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I come from Crete island, Greece. I love this island. I grew up there so I call this place home but London is a very familiar and friendly. It feels like home as well.
JRP: What led you to a career in fashion photography? Do you have any formal training or assisting in your background?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I love fashion photography and all my life is around this. I started shooting after I won the 6th prize at the European competition, “Canon Professional Photo Awards 2004″.
JRP: Do you work with a regular creative team? What roles do they fill?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: Yes, I have a regular team which assists me in photo shoots, editing, and always works under my direction.
JRP: Is there a photographer whose work has inspired you and your approach to fashion photography?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I get inspiration from famous fashion photographers but I am also inspired by all types of art and everyday life.
JRP: What would we find in your camera bag for a typical assignment shoot in studio or on location?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I always have my camera, two different lenses,a lot of memory cards and my laptop.
JRP: What is your approach to lighting? Is there a set up you tend to start with? What are your most used light modifiers and could you give us a visual example?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: The lighting I use depends on what the feeling of the concept is and what I have in front of my camera at the time of shooting. This is exactly what inspires me to set up my lighting.
JRP: Do you spend a lot of time processing images? Could you please describe your digital work flow and the software you use?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: The time I spend for retouching depends on the needs of each shot. Generally, I am very careful in processing images as I consider that this is an important part for the best final result. I use Photoshop software.
JRP: Do you make use of a lot of custom white balances when you shoot?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: Not a lot but I always have my own white balance.
JRP: Do you print your images, how do you handle requests or display prints?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I print images only for my portfolio and all the other prints come from the magazines, campaigns. etc.
JRP: As you look through the viewfinder what is the most critical moment in the capture of an image?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I always try to capture the right moment. What I see through my camera can make me happy.
JRP: With today’s economy what changes are driving the fashion market place and how have you adjusted?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I love fashion photography and I am dedicated to this, regardless of the current economic conditions.
JRP: What was the biggest obstacle to over-come in building your client base?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: I don’t think that I have to overcome any obstacles as the clients who come to me usually have already seen my portfolio and know in advance the result of my work.
JRP: If not fashion photography what would Iakovos Kalaitzakis be doing with his time?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: Definitely something creative like drawing or make up art.
JRP: What has been the best advice given to you by another photographer?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: To keep my own style in photography.
JRP: What advice would you like to share with photographers starting out?
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: It is very important for them to stay informed about fashion and everything relating to it. I do the same!
JRP: Thank you Iakovos for sharing your thoughts and images with us. It has been a pleasure talking with you. We wish you continued success.
Iakovos Kalaitzakis: Thank you very much indeed.
JRP: To view more of Iakovos Kalaitzakis’ photography please follow this links: http://www.iakovoskalaitzakis.com/
