“I try to take photos which arouse strange, warm feelings within me. Without unnecessary words I leave it up to the observer to perceive the image in their own way. As for me I have my personal more or less strong emotional history which associates me with places where I take pictures.”
Natia Rekhviashvili. Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, Natia Rekhviashvili currently works as a freelance photographer in her hometown. She is shooting people and life around her. Some of her works have been published in several online and printed magazines and art blogs. Besides photography Natia Rekhviashvili has a keen interest in philosophy, psychology, art, religion, and literature.
Artist statement
“I’m inspired by stories and people around me. old places where you can see history, emotions.”
Interview with Natia Rekhviashvili
Natia, what was your most memorable moment shooting pictures?
I have many memorable moments shooting pictures, almost every time I have a camera in my hands. But I can remember a special one: When I shot flock on the way to Tusheti. I was above clouds, it was an incredible experience.
Why did you become a photographer?
I want to tell others what I see, feel, and think.
What does photography mean to you and what do you want to say with your pictures?
Photography is serious work, and also art. It is a great way to tell a story, and create images, faces, history that will last next centuries. Photos get more valuable when they become old. For me it is my story, just as a writer tells his stories and feelings with words, so I want to show my stories and feelings to the viewer through my images.
Which photographer has inspired you most?
I love to watch portfolios of photographers. Some of them inspire me, but I know that I must tell my own story. We human beings all look-alike, sometimes we have the same problems, the same emotions and feelings, even the same thoughts. But we express it in different ways. I like many photographers, but I don’t know which one has inspired me most.
How would you describe your photographic voice and creative process?
I try to take photos which arouse strange, warm feelings within me. Without unnecessary words I leave it up to the observer to perceive the image in their own way. As for me I have my personal more or less strong emotional history which associates me with places where I take pictures. There are places where I was thinking about the future when I was a child and dreaming about many things. I was asking questions to the world trying to find answers to them myself. There are other places where I was possibly crying or just the contrary, was very happy. Somewhere I felt enormous emptiness which was exactly expressing my state of mind.
Natia Rekhviashvili, what’s important in order to develop an own photographic voice?
To be original, and to be able to listen to one’s inner world.
What qualities and characteristics does a good photographer need?
Knowledge of the camera technique, skills, a good eye, ability to select, and good taste.
What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes? Especially keeping in mind the over abundance of photographic imagery in today’s society.
It needs to be true, emotional, tasteful, technically well accomplished, original, and aesthetic.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?
Everywhere around me. Sometimes in my private life, from simple people in my city or village, artists, beautiful people, places. Sometimes also from book, films, music lyrics, poetry, love, sadness…
What kind of photography equipment and photographic supplies do you use?
Nikon D90 and 50mm 1.8. 18-105, 18-55mm lenses. I also have a Nikon N60.
What’s your favorite website about photography?
I often visit Magnum Photos, VII Photo, Photovogue, and Le Journal de la Photographie.
What photography book would you recommend?
Any book by Lee Frost. For example: “The A-Z of Creative Photography, Revised Edition: A Complete Guide to More than 70 Creative Techniques”.
Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a (professional) photographer?
Practice a lot your skills in techniques of camera use. Watch many online portfolios from other photographers. Read articles, books, attend workshops, ask more experienced photographers for their advice. Visit museums and galleries. Do not miss important photo festivals. Listen to your own inner world. And make everything with love.
