“I guess one could describe my style as naturalist, feminine and somewhat nostalgic. I usually do not work with a particular method. When a topic or something catches my eye, I devote time to project the images that I have in mind and want to accomplish.”
Inés Tanoira
Inés Tanoira is an Argentine photographer, who does conceptual proyects as well as editorial work and advertising campaigns. She was born 1979 in Buenos Aires (Argentina).
From 1998 to 1999 she studied photography at “Escuela Argentina de Fotografía”. Later on Inés Tanoira participated in several workshop held by Lutz Matschke, Adriana Lestido and Florencia Blanco.
Interview with Ines Tamoira
Inés, what was your first camera and photographic experience?
My first camera was a 35 mm FUJICA, which actually belonged to my father. I can remember that I found it just lying around in a closet. That was when I looked through the viewfinder for the first time. I knew right then that photography was going to turn into a passion. Shortly after that, a the age of 16, I bought my first camera: a Canon A-1 that I still have and use.
Why did you become a photographer?
Because it’s what I’m passionate about, it’s a way of life. Photography is a great partner that is always accompanying me in different moments of my life. Sometimes more active and sometimes more quiet – but always at hand. In it I often find answers to things that happen to me or to questions that are running around in my head. It’s a parallel language.
Which photographer has inspired you most and why?
According different moments in my life, I have been inspired and accompanied by different photographers. If I had to name a few, the most important ones would be Diane Arbus, Nan Goldin, William Eggleston, Larry Sultan, Rinko Kawauchi, Rineke Dijkstra and Adriana Lestido.
Your favorite photography quote?
“Take pictures of what you fear.”
Diane Arbus
How would you describe your photographic style and way of working?
I guess one could describe my style as naturalist, feminine and somewhat nostalgic. I usually do not work with a particular method. When a topic or something catches my eye, I devote time to project the images that I have in mind and want to accomplish. Then I actually begin shooting and work simultaneously with the images that actually appear and try to match them with my imagination. A project at one point develops its own dinamics and I just go along seeing where it’s taking me. There are no strict formulas, I just render and submit myself to the images.
What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes?
Magic.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?
From all the things that are around me and happen to me. From what I see and observe.
How do you keep up to date with new developments in photography, to keep on learning new things?
I continue to attend workshops where I get in contact with other photographers that stimulate me. Also I enjoy visiting exhibitions in galeries or festivals. And of course the internet, which is a great ressource of information. Recently I’ve spent a lot of time looking at AMERICAN SUBURB X.
What kind of camera and equipment do you use?
I use different cameras according to what I want to what I’m working on. Each one has its role and purpose. At this moment I’m very close to my beloved Rolleiflex.
Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a professional photographer?
Enjoy it very, because photography is beautiful.
