“I prefer democracy in photography with no assigning to some styles or techniques.”
Oleg Koval (born 1989) is a contemporary street photographer currently based in Lviv, Ukraine.
Oleg Koval, what is the series “New Story For The Place” about?
It is just about daily life, observing and looking around with hope to find something usual or unusual with interesting color, shape etc.
How did you come up with the idea?
I was inspired with travel photography of such photographers like Robert Frank, Joel Meyerowitz and others.
What were the most beautiful, challenging or remarkable moments working on this series?
Provence. It was a brand new experience in my life.
How was the creative process? How would you describe your photographic language and creative process? How do you plan and execute a project? Both technically and conceptually?
For first look it might remind some snap shooting with no selection, but I tried to understand a place, to feel its atmosphere. I don’t like some rules or frames like “projects” or “series”. So it was more like collecting photos through some time period, analyzing them and then selection of much-more delightful pictures to show and share with other people. I`d like to continue my photographic experience in such calm way.
Why did you become a photographer?
To collect some frames from life, to roll back in memories to live through some moments again.
What does photography mean to you?
It is a part of my life, my way to communicate with others and express myself.
Which photographer has inspired you most? Did you have a point of reference when realizing you series?
William Eggleston.
Which photographer has caught your attention lately?
Valery Konevin. His great nonconformist point of look and great feel of taste.
What’s in your photography bag? What kind of equipment do you use?
I prefer democracy in photography with no assigning to some styles or techniques.
I use Contax G2, Mamiya 645, Yashica T*, Pentax ME.
What’s your favorite website about photography?
stampsy.com, aintbadmagazine.com.
Which advice would you give someone who wants to get started with photography?
Just try it, if you will like it you will be involved for all life.
