A few questions to Vinicio Tassani
How did you start with photography?
It’s the classic story: My father gave me a camera when I was nine, and so began a relationship that would last a lifetime. I had always loved looking at photographs, and soon found that I loved taking them even more. With this new camera I took photos of powerful scenes in our world – nighttime, streets, landscapes, various lighting, and sundown, to name a few. I enjoyed playing with the camera, utilizing copious rolls of film while experimenting with different types of shots, and I enrolled in photography classes at the local photo store until I was fifteen. After that came the second phase of my learning journey, on the street. I studied resolutely, poring over every photography book I could get my hands on. I sought out photography jobs, none too menial, in order to learn by assisting other professional photographers. These established pros would eventually become my coaches and mentors, with the pinnacle of my journey coming at graduation from the New York Photography Institute.
Who are some of your favorite photographers?
I have been influenced by many amazing photographers and continue to be moved by them today, as this is part and parcel of my lifelong learning process. One of my favorite historical photographers is the French humanist photographer, Henri Cartier-Bresson, who to this day remains my hero. Some of my other favorites include Alex Webb, Robert Frank, Ferdinando Scianna, Gianni Berengo Gardin, Elliot Erwitt, Sebastião Salgado. All of these exceptional photographers are still strong influences on my work in terms of composition, light, and framing.
How does photography influence your life?
Photography is my way of life, and the search for creative shooting is endless. To the discerning eye, everything has a beautiful shape, a unique view or a special element. It is to this extent that, with regard to creativity and composition, every single shot taken is “absorbed,” and becomes a part of me.
What do you find most enjoying in taking photographs?
My favorite thing is street photography, capturing images of people in their natural setting, anywhere in the world. My overall focus is to create a collection of works that illuminates the subject matter. I love to travel, and have been fortunate to do so for many years, welcoming the numerous, exciting challenges assigned to me. I also enjoy collaborations. Various organizations may want to implement a new artistic twist to a product’s marketing campaign, or to showcase an existing product. It’s enjoyable to take something that looks commonplace and make it extraordinary, and it’s especially gratifying to hear clients react to having their expectations exceeded.
How much emphasis do you put on post-production?
It’s a really simple process. I go through all my photographs, flag the ones I like and then pare down that group, one by one. I’ll continue to edit the selections chosen, utilizing the ‘’Lightroom” program installed on my main system at the studio. If I’m working outside of my studio, I use my “iPad Pro” to select and edit the images. It’s a great tool. With “Lightroom” and the “Affinity Photo” program, I have my perfect “on the go system.”
What’s your favorite gear?
Except for when I am sleeping, I always have my Leica M cameras on hand with 28mm, 50mm and, just in case, the 75mm lenses. All of these are very fast lenses.
What advice do you have for individuals interested in pursuing a career in photography?
Follow your own voice and hone your craft at every moment that you may. Practice continuously, learning from the process by sharing your work, engaging in conversations with photographers at all levels, and studying the arts. Arrogance, a lack of humility and an unwillingness to improve can quickly dismantle your aspirations and objectives as a pro. Always be open to constructive criticism, but at the same time, never lose your true voice, your personal style. Learn from those who have experience, and challenge yourself every day.
What do you think about Camerapixo magazine?
The type of tool that every professional photographer should have; availability, commitment, seriousness and knowledge of the job make Camerapixo the support that I always have in my bag. I am always covered from the Accreditation up to Publication steps.
Please visit Vinicio’s online profile.
We are pleased to encourage photographers to use our new A FEW QUESTIONS TO… tool located in the TOOLS section. Answer a few questions, add photos, and publish them in the magazine and on our blog.
Best regards,
Camerapixo Press Team
