Featured Photographer

We speak to master of black and white minimalism, Nina Papiorek

Photographic Speciality/Style:

I chose monochrome photography as my main style.

Black and white generally means a reduction of the essentials of an image to me. It makes the subject of the photo the central focus and gives an artistic aspect in my opinion.

I am into landscapes, architecture and street photography, but all have some kind of minimalism as a central point.

Short Bio:

Nina, born in 1979 and based in Oberhausen, Germany

How did your love of photography start?

I started with photography in 2004. I, however, only really got addicted to it in 2007 and I would now call it a “never ending love story“.

I started photography relatively late after finishing my studies in business administration, when I rewarded myself a trip to Ireland. It was my first “big“trip abroad and I wanted to capture everything through photos.

What’s your long-term photographic ambition?

Of course, I always try to improve my skills, find nice spots and the perfect moment.

I’d like to travel again and being influenced by foreign places and cultures.

I always have the ambition in my mind to make my pictures even more minimalistic though. Maybe this is a personal goal for the future.

DUESSELDORF KUNSTPALAST

Where does your photographic inspiration come from?

I have always been a very creative person and I found my passion in photography. While traveling, there are foreign places and cultures which are a source of inspiration for me.

What would you consider to be your greatest achievement (or achievements) in your photography to date?

I would say it is just being totally satisfied with your own shot.

That is a goal every photographer should pursue.

Of course, it’s always great to receive awards in international competitions. I take part in them every now and then, but most of them are individual decisions and you have to pay a fee to participate. It certainly helps to make a name for yourself through it, but it should definitely not be the essence of your photography.

What’s your favorite photo you've ever taken & why?

I really can’t say…

I sway a lot. Basically, it’s always the last one I did.

But I am particularly proud of a photo of my two little daughters walking under some impressive treetops, which I took this winter. Outsiders cannot recognize them, but for me this one means a lot.

LIEGE THE KISS

What's inside your kit bag?

There is always way too much equipment in my bag because I am a real perfectionist who does not want to miss an opportunity for a perfect shot. As a result, I carry everything around with me and do not use most of the stuff.

I am a dedicated Canon user. Right now, there is a Canon R in my bag and various types of Canon lenses. I do have a preference for extreme wide angles though. One of my favorite lenses is the Canon EF 14 mm f/2.8 II USM.

I also like to work with ND filters on landscapes and waterscapes, mostly an 1000x ND filter.

What's inside your dream kit bag?

Just give me the Canon R 55…

Which piece of kit couldn't you do without?

My eyes and my camera ;)

What words of advice would you give to beginners?

A more expensive camera does not automatically allow you to take better photos. It is the person behind it who takes the picture, not the technique.

In the beginning you may look at photographers you adore and try to find out how they made a shot and what’s their secret. But don’t try to copy them. Try to add your own style and make it unique.

Don't be disappointed if you don't take a perfect photo every time you are out. That is not realistic.

And then there is only one thing left: Go out and practice, practice, practice!