Passion in Motion

DOWN RANGE WITH Marjorie

1. How did you start with lifestyle and mood photography? What interested you in this style?
I began my journey into lifestyle and mood photography out of a passion for capturing the essence of everyday moments and the emotions they evoke. The inspiration came from a desire to tell authentic stories through images, reflecting the beauty and subtleties of real life. I am very sensitive, even hypersensitive; everything can move me. I love natural light, details, and the beauty of the moments. I can fall in love with the colors of the sky during a sunset or a simple ray of sunshine that reflects off a glass of water on a table, or even the sand on a wet body emerging from the water. I love the delicacy of simple moments.

Initially, my interest was sparked by the candid, unposed photos I saw in magazines and online portfolios. These images had a genuine feel that was often missing in traditional, posed photography. They conveyed a sense of intimacy and spontaneity that resonated deeply with me.

I was particularly drawn to the challenge of capturing fleeting moments that tell a story or convey a mood. Whether it's the joy in a child's laughter, the quiet reflection of someone lost in thought, or the dynamic energy of a bustling street, lifestyle and mood photography allows for a rich exploration of human experiences.

The more I practiced, the more I appreciated the storytelling power of this style. Each photograph became a narrative, a small slice of life that could evoke memories, feelings, and connections. This storytelling aspect is what continues to inspire and motivate me in my work, as I strive to create images that not only capture moments but also touch the hearts of those who see them.

2. Why do you choose to use a Leica camera? How does it affect your work?
I grew up in a family where my dad worked in a photo laboratory. I was surrounded by film photographs and different cameras throughout my childhood. As a curious little girl, I had the opportunity to explore the cameras and understand the process from shooting to developing to printing.

Shooting with Leica was a deliberate choice. I tested many cameras, but Leica was my favorite. I preferred the type of lens that allows me to stay close to the subjects I wanted to shoot (35 and 50 mm).

I choose to use a Leica camera because of its unparalleled build quality, exceptional image quality, and the unique shooting experience it offers. Leica cameras are renowned for their precision engineering and craftsmanship, which translates into reliability and durability—essential attributes for a photographer.

Leica lenses are legendary for their sharpness, clarity, and beautiful rendering of colors. The ability to capture fine details and subtle nuances in light and shadow enhances the overall quality of my photographs. This is particularly important in lifestyle and mood photography, where the texture and ambiance of a scene play a crucial role in conveying the story and emotions.

Leica cameras, especially the M series, emphasize manual controls, which encourages a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to photography. This manual engagement helps me slow down and truly consider each shot, leading to more intentional and composed images. The tactile feedback of adjusting settings directly on the camera fosters a deeper connection with the photographic process.

Overall, the choice of a Leica camera enriches my photographic experience, enabling me to produce images with a distinctive look and feel. The combination of superior optics, manual controls, and discreet design helps me capture the essence of life's moments in a way that aligns with my vision and style.

3. How do you create the mood in your photos? Can you explain your process?
I am very sensitive to the environment around me. My senses are quite heightened compared to the average person; I am hypersensitive. There are many signals that I pick up. I feel a lot of emotions and am very attentive, trying to be as present as possible.

Creating mood in my photos involves a combination of technical skills, artistic vision, and a keen understanding of human emotions. Here’s a detailed look at my process:

• Before I even pick up the camera, I spend time thinking about the mood I want to convey. This involves understanding the story behind the photo and the emotions I want to evoke. I consider the setting, the subjects, and the overall atmosphere I aim to create.

• The choice of location and timing is crucial. Natural light plays a significant role in setting the mood, so I often shoot during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) when the light is soft and warm. For more dramatic or moody scenes, I might choose overcast days or indoor settings with controlled lighting.

• Lighting is perhaps the most critical element in mood photography. I use a mix of natural and artificial light, depending on the desired effect. Soft, diffused light creates a gentle, serene mood, while harsher, directional light can add drama and intensity. I often use reflectors or diffusers to shape the light and enhance the mood.

• Composition helps guide the viewer’s eye and reinforces the mood. I pay close attention to framing, using techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space to create balance and harmony. The choice of lens and focal length also affects the composition and the overall feel of the image.

The expressions and body language of the subjects are pivotal in conveying mood. I strive to capture genuine emotions by creating a comfortable environment where subjects feel at ease. For candid shots, I let the subjects interact naturally and wait for the right moment to capture authentic expressions.

Editing is where I fine-tune the mood of my photos. I use software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to adjust exposure, contrast, and saturation. I might add vignettes, adjust highlights and shadows, and apply selective color corrections to enhance the overall atmosphere. The key is to enhance the natural mood without over-processing.

By combining these elements thoughtfully, I can create photos that not only capture moments but also evoke a specific mood and connect with viewers on an emotional level. The process is both intuitive and deliberate, requiring a balance of technical skill and artistic sensibility.

4. Can you share a time when a location really influenced your photo shoot?
Certainly! One memorable experience where the location profoundly influenced my photo shoot was during a trip to Milos. The island is so calm, authentic, and pure; everything is clean, white, and vibrant. My photos were very refined because I wanted to keep the serenity that I had felt during this trip.

Milos is known for its picturesque coastal villages. The white and blue houses, narrow winding streets, and stunning sea views provided a unique and vibrant backdrop.

My initial vision was to capture the charm and timeless beauty of these villages while highlighting the serene and romantic atmosphere. I wanted to create images that conveyed a sense of wanderlust and the joy of exploration.

The white and blue colors influenced my choice of palette. The natural light during the golden hour amplified these colors, adding a warm and inviting glow to the photos.

The unique lighting conditions, with the sun casting long shadows in the narrow streets, created opportunities for dramatic and dynamic compositions. I used the interplay of light and shadow to add depth and texture to the images.

The lively atmosphere of the villages, with locals going about their daily routines and tourists exploring, provided countless opportunities for candid shots. I focused on capturing genuine interactions and spontaneous moments that reflected the vibrant life on the island.

This experience reinforced my belief in the power of location to inspire and elevate photography, and it continues to influence how I approach new and diverse environments in my work.

5. What challenges do you face in capturing your style of shots?
Capturing lifestyle and mood photography comes with its own set of challenges, each requiring a mix of technical skills, creativity, and adaptability. Here are some of the main challenges I face and how I address them:

Capturing Authentic Moments: Achieving genuine expressions and natural interactions can be difficult, especially when subjects are aware of the camera. To create a relaxed environment, I often engage in conversation and allow subjects to interact naturally. Using a smaller, less intrusive camera like a Leica helps subjects feel more at ease.

Managing Lighting Conditions: Natural light can be unpredictable. I plan shoots around the best lighting conditions, such as the golden hour. For indoor or challenging light situations, I use reflectors, diffusers, or portable lighting to enhance the natural light and maintain the desired mood.

Balancing Spontaneity and Control: Striking a balance between capturing spontaneous moments and maintaining control over the scene to ensure high-quality images can be challenging. I stay prepared and alert to capture unexpected moments while also subtly guiding the shoot to maintain a cohesive narrative and aesthetic. This involves a mix of candid shots and lightly directed scenes.

By addressing these challenges proactively and staying adaptable, I can consistently create engaging and emotive lifestyle and mood photographs that align with my vision and style.

6. How do you make sure your photos tell a story or show emotions?
Ensuring that my photos tell a story or show emotions involves a blend of careful planning, technical skills, and a deep understanding of human experiences. Here’s how I achieve this:

Understanding the Narrative: Before the shoot, I clarify the story or message I want to convey. This involves understanding the context, the characters (subjects), and the key moments that will help illustrate the narrative. I decide on the theme and mood of the shoot, which guides my choices in location, lighting, composition, and subject interaction.

Building Rapport: I take time to connect with my subjects, making them feel comfortable and at ease. This rapport helps in capturing genuine expressions and interactions. Instead of rigid posing, I encourage subjects to engage in activities or interactions that are meaningful to them, capturing spontaneous and authentic moments.

Location: The location plays a crucial role in setting the scene and supporting the narrative. I select settings that complement the story and enhance the emotional impact.

Focus on Details: Close-ups and detail shots can highlight specific emotions or aspects of the story, such as a hand gesture, a facial expression, or a significant object.

Utilizing Natural Light: I utilize natural light to create a specific atmosphere. Soft, diffused light can evoke calmness and intimacy, while dramatic light and shadows can add intensity and emotion. When needed, I use artificial lighting to control the mood and highlight important aspects of the scene.

Series of Photos: Often, a single image might not be enough to tell the whole story. I create a series of photos that together provide a fuller narrative arc, capturing different moments and perspectives. The order in which photos are presented can influence the story’s flow and emotional progression. I carefully curate and sequence images to build a cohesive and compelling narrative.

By combining these techniques, I ensure that my photos not only capture moments but also convey rich stories and evoke genuine emotions, resonating with viewers on a deeper level.

7. Can you talk about a project you're really proud of? What inspired it?
One project I’m particularly proud of is a photo series for an editorial for the brand COSTARELLOS. This series explores the theme of a moody, dreamy, and deep emotional connection the model has with her childhood home (Brazil) and her future dreamy wedding.

The goal was to create a series of captivating black and white photographs that encapsulate the timeless elegance and ethereal beauty of brides. The project aimed to highlight the delicate details of bridal fashion and the profound emotions associated with weddings through the art of long exposure photography.

The essence of the project was to blend the timeless appeal of black and white photography with the dreamy effects of long exposure techniques. This combination emphasized movement and light, creating a soft, surreal atmosphere that enhanced the bridal aesthetic. The resulting images conveyed a sense of romance, mystery, and sophistication, aligning perfectly with the brand's commitment to timeless elegance.

The inspiration behind the black and white long exposure photography project for a bridal brand stemmed from a desire to merge classic artistry with modern photographic techniques, creating a unique visual narrative that embodies the essence of timeless bridal elegance. Several key factors inspired this project:

Timeless Quality: Black and white photography has long been revered for its ability to transcend time, stripping away the distractions of color to focus on the essence of the subject. This timeless quality aligns perfectly with the enduring nature of weddings and bridal fashion, which often celebrate traditions and timeless beauty. I am a huge fan of BW!

Ethereal Beauty: Long exposure photography introduces a sense of movement and dreaminess to images. The flowing veils, billowing gowns, and gentle movements captured through this technique evoke a sense of ethereal beauty and grace, reflecting the dreamy and magical nature of weddings.

Artistic Innovation: Combining black and white photography with long exposure techniques offers a fresh and innovative approach to bridal photography. This artistic expression allows for the creation of visually striking and emotionally evocative images, setting the brand apart in a competitive market.

8. In lifestyle photography, how do you balance spontaneous moments with planned shots?
Balancing spontaneous moments with planned shots in lifestyle photography is a delicate art that requires flexibility, preparation, and keen observation. Here’s how I achieve this balance:

Client’s Vision: I start by discussing the client’s vision and goals for the shoot. Understanding their expectations helps in planning key shots while allowing room for spontaneity. I create a loose storyboard outlining the main scenes and moments to capture. This helps ensure that we cover essential elements while leaving space for natural, unplanned moments.

Location Scouting: Visiting the location beforehand allows me to identify the best spots for planned shots and anticipate areas where spontaneous moments are likely to occur.

Lighting Assessment: Knowing the lighting conditions at different times of the day helps in planning when to capture specific shots and how to adjust quickly for impromptu moments.

Creating a Comfortable Environment: Engaging with subjects and building a rapport helps them feel at ease, making it easier to capture genuine, spontaneous moments. Offering gentle guidance rather than strict direction allows subjects to act naturally while still aligning with the overall vision.

Observational Skills: By closely observing body language and interactions, I anticipate moments before they happen, positioning myself to capture them effectively. Patience is key to waiting for the right spontaneous moment while also knowing when to step in for a planned shot.

By combining thorough planning with a flexible, observant approach, I create a balanced mix of spontaneous and planned shots. This results in a dynamic and authentic collection of images that tell a rich, engaging story.

9. What tips would you give to new photographers wanting to do lifestyle and mood photography?
Tips for New Photographers in Lifestyle and Mood Photography:

Understand Your Subject: Build rapport with your subjects. Spend time getting to know them to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. This will help you capture genuine emotions and interactions. Communication is important.

Plan, But Stay Flexible: Create a loose plan or storyboard to outline key shots and moments you want to capture. This provides structure while allowing for spontaneity. Be ready to adapt to changing conditions and unexpected moments. Some of the best shots happen when you least expect them.

Master Lighting: Learn to work with natural light. Familiarize yourself with using reflectors, diffusers, and off-camera flash to control lighting in various conditions.

Capture Authentic Moments: Pay attention to details.

Develop Your Style: Consistent editing and your personal vision. Focus on what inspires you and try to infuse your personal vision and style into your work.

Learn from Others: Study the masters. Look at the work of established lifestyle and mood photographers to understand their techniques and approaches.

Tell a Story: Think about the story you want to tell with your images. Each photo should contribute to a larger narrative, whether it’s a single shot or a series.

Lifestyle and mood photography is about capturing the essence of real-life moments and emotions. By combining technical skills with a deep understanding of human interactions and a keen eye for detail, you can create compelling and authentic images that resonate with viewers. Stay curious, keep practicing, and let your unique perspective shine through your work.

10. What’s your most proud of photo you've taken so far?
Certainly! I do not have just one; it is the series of the "Skin Project" because this series holds personal significance and speaks to my personal artistic vision and emotional connection.

This series of self-portrait photography holds a special place in my heart because it emerged during one of the most challenging and introspective periods of my life. At that time, I was grappling with a multitude of difficulties, both emotionally and mentally. The act of creating these self-portraits became a therapeutic outlet, allowing me to explore and express my inner world in ways that words could not convey.

This black and white self-portrait holds a special place in my heart as it captures a deeply personal and intimate moment of self-expression. Set against a minimalist backdrop, the simplicity of the composition focuses attention solely on the human form and its inherent beauty.

The choice of black and white enhances the timeless quality of the image, emphasizing contrasts and textures that highlight both physical features and emotional depth. The interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of mystery and drama, inviting the viewer to contemplate the complexity of the human experience.

I aimed to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. The nudity represents a raw and unguarded state of being, while the confident posture and gaze reflect self-acceptance and empowerment. It's a portrait not just of the physical self, but also of inner strength and resilience.

Through careful framing and composition, I sought to capture a moment of introspection and self-awareness. Each element of the image—from the subtle curves and lines of the body to the play of light on skin—tells a silent story of self-discovery and acceptance.

Ultimately, this series is a reflection of my journey towards embracing authenticity and celebrating the beauty of imperfection. It represents a pivotal moment in my artistic exploration, where self-portraiture became a powerful tool for self-expression and storytelling.

This series was not just about taking photos; it was an in-depth exploration of my identity and emotions. I spent countless hours experimenting with different techniques, lighting, and compositions, pushing the boundaries of my creativity. This exploration was both a journey of self-discovery and a means of honing my photographic skills.

Despite the personal turmoil, the self-portrait series was a significant success artistically. The feedback and recognition it received affirmed my belief in the power of art to connect and communicate. The series struck a chord not only with me but also with others who saw the honesty and emotion in the work.

This self-portrait photography series is my favorite because it is a true reflection of my soul during a pivotal moment in my life. It embodies the struggles, the healing, and the triumphs I experienced. The dedication and time I invested in exploring self-portraiture not only improved my craft but also provided a crucial means of self-expression and introspection. The success of the series validated my efforts and reinforced my passion for photography, making it an indelible part of my artistic journey.

This series stands as a personal and artistic milestone, encapsulating a period of profound transformation and creative discovery. It is a favorite not just for its artistic merit, but for the deep, personal meaning it holds.

See more of Marjorie here @Marjorie.kempf