L’ Oeil de Paris 03 by Violette Nell

More about Violette Nell

ON THE
TECHNICAL
SIDE

How did you choose your means of expression?

I was introduced to this means of expression later in life during a long period of convalescence. I had never really had an opportunity to get into photography; it was an art that I observed from a distance. I made the most of my time convalescing to get to grips with photography on my own by reading books and to practice, mainly through self-portraits. What started as just curiosity quickly turned into a passion to the same extent as drawing and painting.

Is this medium secondary to or closely linked to your subject?

This medium is closely linked to my intention I use the camera body directly to create an artistic or poetic ambiance. I therefore use my camera for example to experiment with things like superimposition. I also create my own colour filters by placing transparent book covers in front of the lens to enhance the atmosphere that I want to give my photograph.

What materials do you use and why?

I use basic equipment: a carbon fibre tripod for long exposures, self-portraits and night photography. I use a Minolta XD-7 for argentic shots, a camera that I have used from the start that has proved its worth. For street photographs, taken on the spot, I use a Nikon F65. I use a Nikon D3100 for digital. Price plays a role in my choice of cameras but I am also mindful of quality without forgetting the lenses attached to the camera body.

How does a work session take shape?

It depends on the chosen theme. Sometimes I wander around a city and let myself be guided by its charm having prepared nothing in advance. I love to alternate these more spontaneous photographs those that are more planned. Most of the time I do a sketch to summarise my ideas. I also note the colours that I want to emphasise as well as any accessories. I often take two cameras with me to avoid any nasty surprises.

Can you explain to me how your work has evolved since starting out?

In the beginning, I found my way through trial and error without knowing which direction to take, I hesitated for a long time before choosing not to confine myself to a single theme because people often tend to categorise you. Eventually, I learnt to develop several projects around different or complementary topics but at the same time trying to maintain my sensitivity regarding colours and atmospheres. I am also more meticulous with respect to the composition of my photo and more selective regarding photos posted on the Internet.

IN
CONCLUSION

How do you view your own work?

I am quite critical of my work, I am a perfectionist hence my desire to exhaust my series to the maximum. Generally speaking, my series are on-going; I tirelessly go back to them for fear of having missed any detail that would have made a difference and better served my vision. I think that it’s a way of stimulating my creativity so as not to tire of my activity; I think that the best is always to come.

What are your current and future projects?

I am currently working on series of photos that explore the world of colours. In terms of the future, I would like to base a project around abandoned spaces in France and other places.