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Interview with judge - Ivan Mandevski

05.08.2024

• What inspired you to become a professional in the world of beauty, photography and art?

I have always been drawn to art and beauty in its various forms. I started as an amateur photographer, capturing moments and details of everyday life that others might not notice. Over time, I realized that this is not just a hobby, but a true passion. I am inspired by the opportunity to create and capture beauty that delights people and gives them new perspectives on the world around them. That's why the formula behind my shots is "Emotion, Atmosphere. Message”. I believe that these are the factors that make a photo not just a photo, but a true photograph.

• What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your professional journey?

The biggest challenge was establishing myself in the competitive environment of photography and art. There were times when I doubted myself and my abilities, but persistence and belief in my abilities helped me overcome these difficulties. Also, it is important to adapt to new technologies and trends in the industry, which requires constant learning and development.

• What do you enjoy most about your job?

The photography profession gives a wide field for development, since it itself has many genres and each of them is an infinite universe. Thanks to this very fact, photography gives me a sense of adventure, which is very important to me in order to keep me focused and driven in my work. In this adventure, the greatest satisfaction for me is when my clients are happy and satisfied with the results. When I see how my photos and projects positively affect people and how they appreciate the effort and creativity I put into my work. That's how I feel like I'm contributing and connected. If I had to summarize: Development, Adventure, Significance, Contribution and Connection. This motivates me to keep developing and looking for new ways to express myself.

• What advice would you give to young professionals who want to succeed in this field?

I would recommend young professionals to persistently search for themselves personally and creatively and not to give up easily. It is important that they invest time in their training and be open to new ideas and techniques. Also, don't be afraid to experiment and look for your own unique style.

Never think that photography is easy. It's like poetry, it's easy to make a few rhymes, but they don't make a good poem.

To forget about the profession of a photographer! To be photographers at heart first, and maybe the profession will come after that. Don't rush to pay your rent with your camera. To take the pictures they feel obligated to take and maybe that will lead to a career. But if they try to make a career first, they'll just make crappy pictures that don't excite them or the audience.

Personally, my formula for achieving a successful shot, regardless of the genre, is "Good shoes, empathy, optimism and lots of spare batteries!".

• Tell us a little more about yourself and share with us what you expect from the participants in the Art Poster category?

My name is Ivan Mandevski and I am a professional photographer with over 13 years of experience in wedding, interior and portrait photography. I love creating high quality visual content that tells stories and inspires people.

I expect the participants in the Art Poster category to show creativity, originality and attention to detail. I want to see how they interpret the subject in a unique way and how their works can evoke emotions and thoughts in the viewers.

I hope these answers will inspire participants to give their best.