Exploring the Artistry of Daniil Slomakin: A Visual Q&A. In this exclusive interview, Russian photographer Daniil Slomakin shares insights into his creative process, motivations, and perspective on the world of photography.
Who are you?
My name is Daniil Slomakin, I'm a photographer, born in Russia, and I've been seriously involved in photography for the past three years. Previously, I worked as a waiter and a welder, but photography has profoundly changed my life, and that's something to be happy about. I'm also an ambassador for Aputure, which is really cool in my opinion!
Why photography?
Photography initially interested me because it has a relatively low entry barrier. You can become a photographer simply if you have an artistic vision, and that's wonderful. However, as you delve deeper into the subject of photography, you realize that it's much more complex than it initially seemed, with the theoretical knowledge of composition and digital color correction. This actually makes photography even more interesting, and that's wonderful. It's multifaceted, with many different stories, never boring.
What is your trademark photographic style?
I wouldn't say that I have a signature photographic style. I've thought about this for a long time, but now I've come to the conclusion that I'm primarily engaged in photography, not stylistic masturbation. I like to photograph in different ways, and I must admit - I don't have a specific style, but that makes it even more interesting. You can see various works from me, but I can confidently say - my photography is about my inner state and about other people.
What truly inspires you?
I'm primarily inspired by my motives to become a really cool photographer, which I wouldn't call myself at the moment. I believe that if you say you're cool and you know everything, then you're a fool, so you need to learn. This desire to become better than my previous self inspires me first and foremost. When it comes to inspiration for creating new concepts - it's definitely movies and other photographers. I also draw inspiration from music and people.
Where do you go when you close your eyes?
The question is quite interesting, and honestly, I would like to answer it. Since I left home 8 months ago, I really miss everything I left behind. Lately, when I close my eyes, I go home, where my friends and family are. They are wonderful, they have always supported me, and without them, I wouldn't have achieved anything, I dare say these words.
Where is home for you?
Home is where all those people I mentioned earlier are. Factually, it's St. Petersburg. But if those people lived anywhere else, that's where home would be.
How would you describe your lifestyle?
Earlier, I led a rather destructive lifestyle, there was a lot going on in my life, and alcohol was constant. When I came here, I realized that this couldn't go on for long, and now I lead a healthy lifestyle. Self-discipline has greatly changed my approach to creativity. Sports and proper nutrition, reading, and meditation. This is roughly how I live now, haha.
What makes a great shot?
Firstly, what makes a shot great is its content, and then technical execution. I believe that a really good shot cannot be taken by an inexperienced person with poor exposure. And if they do, they won't even realize it. The result is that to take a good shot, you need to look at a lot and get inspired, and then learn the technical knowledge of photography.
What gear do you prefer to use?
I use the Sony a7iv camera for big shoots, and for everyday use, I have the RICOH GRiii. Also, in my arsenal, there is a huge amount of Aputure lighting, since I am still an ambassador, it would be strange if it weren't so, haha.
How do you view the world?
I look at the world with an eternal search for beauty. After all, beauty can be found even in the repulsive, right? I don't want you to think that I romanticize everything possible, but otherwise, you won't survive in the world of photography, I believe. Without the ability to notice beauty in the ordinary, you'll rarely find a photographer, otherwise, what would we photograph? What perspective would we convey?
What is an important lesson you have learned?
I would like to say a couple of phrases that are worth paying attention to if you are involved in art, they will help you to relate to it easier. "This too shall pass," "The presence of an audience is not important, I do art primarily for myself," "When you take a shot - love it, but when you come home and start processing it - analyze it with a clear head."
