Fashion photographer interview

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Category: Professional Interviewed

Fleeting moments with a fashion photographer - Miroslav Zaruba spoke to ePHOTOzine about his love for fashion, studios and his wife.

Posted: 30th October 2009
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Photo by Miroslav Zaruba
Photo by Miroslav Zaruba.
Did you always want to be a photographer?
"If somebody told me three years ago that I was going to be a photographer I would have probably laughed at them. Back then I only had an Olympus C-760 and I was taking photos of my family and holidays."

Tell us a little about your career. 
"I finished Military Academy and spent almost ten years as a professional soldier. I was slowly climbing up the ladder but soon realised that life in the army didn't satisfy me. When I married my lovely wife Tati, I realised it was time for a change. I left my old job and moved to Cyprus, than to the UK. Here I decided to improve my knowledge of the English language and signed up for English classes at Cambridge Regional College. After that I went on a FDA Professional Photography course at Anglia Ruskin University, where I hopelessly fell in love with photography."

Where do you do most of your work?
"At the beginning I considered myself as a landscape/wildlife photographer, but when I discovered studio lighting I was 'hooked' and a studio became my second home. However, I am still undergoing an evolution and at the moment I prefer to shoot outdoors where I feel less restricted."

Photo by Miroslav Zaruba
Photo by Miroslav Zaruba.
What equipment do you use? Is this a personal preference or one that makes your professional role easier?
"At the moment I use an Olympus E-3 DSLR and I love this camera because of its sturdy build, construction and reliability but I am considering buying a Canon 5D Mk II because of the full frame sensor and the great range of lenses and accessories. I also use several Zuiko Digital lenses but my favourite is an ED 50-200mm f/1:2.8-3.5 SWD lens which is the equivalent range of 100-400mm on a 35mm film camera. It is a very light and compact lens. I like the fast autofocus and excellent sharpness."

Who has influenced you and why?
"I really like Irving Penn, Helmut Newton and Nick Knight. I'm influenced by their photos as they are simply beautiful."

How would you describe your style?
"This is a difficult question. My main signature would be a play of light and shadows. I am always trying to get some interesting contrasts in my photos."

How do you approach a photo shoot? Are they all different? Do you have a favourite technique?
"For me, every shoot is different. I don't like to follow the same pattern all of the time and for me, what's most important is the atmosphere and relationship between the model and me. I always have a plan in my head but I also try to improvise and work creatively with the model. I always get to know the model and I usually do this before shooting, when my amazing make up/hair stylist and wardrobe stylist does her magic."

Photo by Miroslav Zaruba
Photo by Miroslav Zaruba.
How important is the internet for your career?
"The internet is a very useful tool. I think it's the strongest and cheapest way to advertise and you can reach millions of people all over the world. Also, there's plenty of photography advice out there and frankly, 90% what I know I learnt from the internet."

Do you only shoot fashion? If yes why? Is it because of the money or is it something you really enjoy?
"I shoot everything, but mostly I shoot fashion work. I consider fashion to be a fascinating subject full of never ending fun."

Do you have a client/magazine or model you would love to work with?
"My dream, like many fashion photographers, is to shoot for Vogue and if I could get the chance, I'd love to photograph Kate Moss, Gisele Bundchen and Adriana Lima."

Any advice for young photographers and our readers?
"Never give up on your dreams, be a child in your heart and perceive the world with pure curiosity."

Visit Miroslav Zaruba's website for more information.


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