Nina Kohackova
1. Congratulations on winning in the London Photography Awards! Can you share a little about yourself, what inspired you to pursue photography, and how has your journey evolved since your first shot?
I am a traveller and an adventurer. I attempt to capture life's moments and feelings. My journey is ever-changing, and I'm still learning, but I have come a long way since my first shot.
2. Can you share the story or inspiration behind your award-winning piece? How does winning this award make you feel about your journey in photography?
While I was travelling, I unexpectedly came across a fisherman at work. He immediately captured my interest - he had been a fisherman his whole life, and he radiated calm, happiness, and contentment. I had a strong emotional response.
3. How do you decide which photo to submit for a competition?
These photographs and their story invoked the most feelings by far, as well as memories of the moments.
4. What first made you pick up a camera?
A desire to capture and share my view of the world.
5. What’s your favorite type of photography, and why do you love it?
Black & White. It's where all photography started. It conveys emotion through simplicity.
6. What’s your go-to camera setup, and why does it work best for your projects? What’s your favorite feature?
My nifty-fifty lens. That way, I'm always ready - almost having a point-and-shoot experience. It also captures moments very closely, mimicking the human eye.
7. If someone looked at your work, what’s the one thing you’d want them to feel?
I'd like them to see what I saw, and feel what I felt when taking the photograph.
8. What was the most challenging part of capturing your winning shot?
The lighting was undesirable.
9. Is there a specific place or subject that inspires you the most?
People and streets - where life happens.
10. Who or what has been your biggest influence in photography?
Sebastião Salgado, Dežo Hoffmann, and Josef Koudelka.
11. What message would you share to inspire photographers to participate in photography awards, and what advice would you give to help them excel in the competition?
Participating is a motivating, inspirational activity fueling your future work. Trust your instincts.
12. What’s one piece of advice for someone just starting in photography?
Always be on high alert and ready to capture the unexpected moment.
13. What role do editing and post-processing play in your creative workflow?
A good shot is the basis - the post-processing is a way to accentuate the feelings.
14. How do you see technology, like AI, influencing the future of photography and your own approach?
I'm cautious about how it can blur the line between real and fake. For me, photography's value lies in the human eye, intentionality, and feeling.
15. If you could photograph anything or anyone in the world, what would it be?
I'd photograph the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, focusing on the workers and their daily lives. I'm interested in the human story behind historic achievements.
