Lonesome Street
by Enrico Markus Essl
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Dear Enrico, Could you tell us how did you discover your passion for photography? Actually, I’ve been interested in photography since my childhood and I’ve always been interested in different genres of it. About five years ago I was struck by street photography during a trip to Berlin. The final impulses were set alight by starting with street photography from In-Public, a street photography collective. What characteristic feature do you try to catch and feature in your work? |
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
Honestly, it’s all about composition: Colors, shadows and geometrical elements and their special arrangements play the most important roles in my photography. Additionally, a tang of irony and humour are always part of my work and characterize my approach to street photography.
Do you usually have an objective before starting a photo shoot, or do you just take pictures everywhere and then divide them into different subjects?
I go both ways. Sometimes I have explicit intentions because I am either working on a special series or I have a clearly defined theme. But mostly I’m just strolling around without specific plans. In fact, I may have projects in my mind, then these thoughts might influence my way of looking at motives, even unconsciously.
From my experience, this is the best way to capture some amazing shots. That’s why I always take my camera whenever I leave the house.
Your works have featured in numerous exhibitions and you have received several awards. How does it feel to compete with other artists?
I consider it thoroughly whether to take part in a competition or not. It plays an important role for me who the jurors are. Furthermore, it makes fun to compete with other photographers and it honors my work.
Do you like to exchange opinions with other photographers or do you prefer to enjoy their photography as presented?
Basically, I believe it’s interesting to exchange opinions with other photographers. But I’m not really great at networking. I try to find my own way by developing my own style.
Do you usually have an objective before starting a photo shoot, or do you just take pictures everywhere and then divide them into different subjects?
I go both ways. Sometimes I have explicit intentions because I am either working on a special series or I have a clearly defined theme. But mostly I’m just strolling around without specific plans. In fact, I may have projects in my mind, then these thoughts might influence my way of looking at motives, even unconsciously.
From my experience, this is the best way to capture some amazing shots. That’s why I always take my camera whenever I leave the house.
Your works have featured in numerous exhibitions and you have received several awards. How does it feel to compete with other artists?
I consider it thoroughly whether to take part in a competition or not. It plays an important role for me who the jurors are. Furthermore, it makes fun to compete with other photographers and it honors my work.
Do you like to exchange opinions with other photographers or do you prefer to enjoy their photography as presented?
Basically, I believe it’s interesting to exchange opinions with other photographers. But I’m not really great at networking. I try to find my own way by developing my own style.
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Do you like to hear others comment about your work or do you avoid critics?
I absolutely don’t have a problem with people criticizing and commenting on my work. Apart from this, I wish people took sufficient time to look at my photography thoroughly and then they can dispute or argue with the photographer’s intentions.
Do you prefer black and white photography or do you believe that a pop of color is always more expressive and powerful?
Actually, I prefer color photography. It suits my way of photography best because I love to work with colors. The emphasis on bright colors and distinct contrasts corresponds with the designated idea of “pop art street photography”.
For me personally color photography is much more difficult and it presents a bigger challenge than taking black and white photography. The composition of colors and geometry in a good shot is a big dare.
Who are some of the artists that inspire you with their work?
I cannot say I am really inspired by them, but I like the photography of Helmut Newton, Rene Burri and Siegfried Hansen.
Do you have long term career goals?
My one and only long term goal is to see even one of my pictures exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Other than that, I’d like to have an exhibition in NYC. In my mind this city is the world’s most important art center.
For now, I’m glad if I share my experiences with other photographers and photography lovers alike.
What is your No# 1 advice for young photographers or artists who are passionate about their art form, but maybe intimidated by fierce competition?
I’d say “Go your way, take your shot.” No one should be afraid of competition. It might help with progress and development.
I absolutely don’t have a problem with people criticizing and commenting on my work. Apart from this, I wish people took sufficient time to look at my photography thoroughly and then they can dispute or argue with the photographer’s intentions.
Do you prefer black and white photography or do you believe that a pop of color is always more expressive and powerful?
Actually, I prefer color photography. It suits my way of photography best because I love to work with colors. The emphasis on bright colors and distinct contrasts corresponds with the designated idea of “pop art street photography”.
For me personally color photography is much more difficult and it presents a bigger challenge than taking black and white photography. The composition of colors and geometry in a good shot is a big dare.
Who are some of the artists that inspire you with their work?
I cannot say I am really inspired by them, but I like the photography of Helmut Newton, Rene Burri and Siegfried Hansen.
Do you have long term career goals?
My one and only long term goal is to see even one of my pictures exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Other than that, I’d like to have an exhibition in NYC. In my mind this city is the world’s most important art center.
For now, I’m glad if I share my experiences with other photographers and photography lovers alike.
What is your No# 1 advice for young photographers or artists who are passionate about their art form, but maybe intimidated by fierce competition?
I’d say “Go your way, take your shot.” No one should be afraid of competition. It might help with progress and development.