Who is the person behind the photos?

I am Cristi López, eighteen years old. I am currently studying at the University of Florida, working towards my BFA in Graphic Design. My passions in life include photography, drawing, writing, and traveling.

How did you discover photography and what makes you keep on doing it?
In eighth grade, I was given a point and shoot digital camera for Christmas. I would photograph various things for fun, mostly small details of inanimate objects, like lace or blades of grass. At first, I was not confident enough to photograph people. My freshman year of high school, I began photographing my friends for fun. I fell in love with portraiture, a passion that continues to grow and evolve. I am constantly trying to find new ways to capture each subject's essence through the lens.
What keeps me going? I'd say it's the obsession I have with improving my work- with making each image better than the last. I am planning a series of photo shoots in the near future that are quite different from my usual work. I'm quite excited to see what comes of them. I find that experimentation is a catalyst for growth.

Which artist would you like to work with?
I don't even know where to begin. One of my favorite photographers right now is Paolo Roversi. Working with him would be an absolute dream. His portraits are raw, gorgeous, ethereal, otherworldly... just amazing.

In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a photographer,and what differentiates it from a good photo taker?
It depends on your taste, really. I think one of the ingredients of success in an image is its ability to evoke emotion in the observer. I love it when I can relate to photographs- when they make me feel. I don't think every photo has to have this elaborate reason behind it, though. I think that images that we find simply beautiful have immense power. Each person identifies beauty in different things and for different reasons. This varying, undefinable property of beauty fascinates me.

What is your favourite photo or artist?
I have so many favorite photos- it's really hard to pinpoint just one. Though "Damaged Child" by Sally Mann is definitely one of my favorites. Also, Caitlin Hatchett is one of my absolute favorite artists. Her illustrations are awe-inspiring.

Choose a question and reply.
What is my favorite time to shoot?
I adore sunset light. It's unpredictable, varying on the season and weather (as all light does), but it's always lovely. I also enjoy early morning light but it quickly becomes noon sun which is not-so-lovely for portraits.

What do you expect from your photographic future?
Sometimes I wish I had a definitive goal, but right now I do not. All I want is to have a job doing something I am passionate about. I have always and will always be passionate about art-making, so I am sure that my job will entail such. I am excited to see what the future holds.

 Thanks to Cristi López