Interview natuurfotografie.nl

8 april 2020

News

On April 6 I was interviewed by the website natuurfotografie.nl. Below are the highlights of this fun interview:

Interview Elvis Dallie

WHO ARE YOU AND WHY ARE YOU SO INTERESTED IN NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY?

My name is Elvis Dallie and I live in Arnhem. About three years ago I discovered nature photography through an acquaintance. Nature always appealed to me, even without photography. However, this day changed the way I looked at nature, an eye opening experience. I started studying photography that day. By diving into well-known photography magazines I read everything there is to read. The purchase of a camera soon followed. On social media I looked at inspiring photos of other nature photographers and thought: “Wow, I want to be able to do this as well!”. To get better, I started practicing a lot. First at home, so that I could start at the beginner techniques. Once I mastered those, I was able to start playing with light, settings and subjects. More and more I felt the freedom to become more creative and develop my own style.

YOUR TYPE OF PHOTOGRAPHY?

My photography is characterized by passion. I do this by keeping on the move and by constantly raising the bar. I want to keep improving myself and especially show my heart, soul and personal sense of nature in my photos.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A DAY OF PHOTOGRAPHY (TOPIC CHOICE, LOCATION, EQUIPMENT, ETC)?

On the days when I have to get up early, my preparation usually starts the day before. By selecting and preparing all my stuff a day earlier, the chance that I’m forgetting equipment is much smaller. That way I won’t be annoyed or distracted once I’m in the field. My equipment is cleaned and ready to go before I go outside. My tripod, three lenses and my filters also get a place in my bag. I like to be flexible when I’m on the road. The choice to take three different lenses with me ensures that I can respond optimally to the conditions that I encounter. I also like to choose the location in advance, and know the weather conditions, since they play a big role. Finally, I make sure I bring enough coffee and small snacks.

HOW DOES A DAY “IN THE FIELD” LOOK WITH YOU?

During a day of photography I first plan a route in the area of my choice, which then explore. Sometimes I walk for miles and enjoy the freedom and beautiful views and atmosphere that nature has to offer. Once on the road I clear my head and fully trust my intuition and creativity, resulting in my work.

WHAT DO YOU FINALLY DO WITH YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS (FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, CREATE AN ALBUM OR …?)

I put the photos I’m most proud of on Instagram. Before, I also posted more on Facebook, but a lot less now. I now mainly use Facebook for sharing information and events, as a kind of bulletin board. On Instagram, it is important to use the correct hashtags to get the right attention. The photos are my ‘business card’ and I want to reach the widest possible audience. In addition to these two social media channels, I plan to build my own website with a portfolio where I can organize my photos even more specifically and make them stand out even better.

OF WHICH PICTURE DO YOU HAVE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MEMORY?

I don’t really have one specific photo with a fondest memory. All my photos are my favorites! For example, my recent trip to Iceland made a big impression on me with many beautiful photos, but frankly, photography in the Netherlands can be just as beautiful. It is about the person behind the camera, who makes the images and who lets the image tell the story. First and foremost, I take pictures for my own pleasure. I try to get the most out of it, to be proud and satisfied with the end result. It is very nice that I can also share my passion with others.

MORNING OR EVENING PHOTOGRAPHY?

That is a difficult choice. If I have to choose, I would choose the morning. The serene silences, the awakening of the day, the smooth water surfaces, misty landscapes. Those mean everything to me.

WITH WHICH PHOTOGRAPHER (M / F) DO YOU WANT TO GO OUT ON A DAY OF PHOTOGRAPHY?

Photography is a personal activity, but I also like to go out with someone who shares the same passion and ambition!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO IMPROVE TO DEVELOP YOURSELF AS A PHOTOGRAPHER?

I have already mentioned that I am constantly improving myself, standing still is not an option. I am thinking of different things I would like to improve on. For example photography, in which can be used in series or documentaries. I also want to gain an even better understanding of situations in the field. Finally, I would like to be able to distinguish myself even better from other nature photographers by creating a clear and personal style.

Elvis Dallie Editor