31 May Interview: Aref Tahmasebi
ArefTahmasebi
Photographer
My name is Aref Tahmasebi. I am 36 years old. Ever since I was born, there were analog cameras in our home, but my real interest in photography began when I bought my first smartphone with an 8-megapixel camera . the Sony Ericsson
NIPA Featured Artist
Photography gives artists a voice through the shared language of images.
A conversation with Aref Tahmasebi.
My name is Aref Tahmasebi. I am 36 years old. Ever since I was born, there were analog cameras in our home, but my real interest in photography began when I bought my first smartphone with an 8-megapixel camera . the Sony Ericsson
The Interview
This NIPA feature brings together the artist’s reflections, selected works, and visual material in a long-form interview format.
Can you tell us about your journey into photography?
My name is Aref Tahmasebi. I am 36 years old. Ever since I was born, there were analog cameras in our home, but my real interest in photography began when I bought my first smartphone with an 8-megapixel camera . the Sony Ericsson Vivaz.
What do you hope viewers take away from your photographs?
Capturing the moments I experience and witness in a specific space gives me joy. By pressing the shutter, I try to tell the story of that very moment to the viewer.
Can you tell us about your journey into photography?
Like many photographers, I started by taking pictures of flowers, trees, clouds, and simple elements. Gradually, as I studied the works of world-class photographers such as Michael Kenna, I became interested in minimal photography. Later, I explored drone photography, documentary photography, street photography, and nature photography. Regardless of style or genre, I always try to convey the moment in the best possible way with whatever tools I have.
What ideas, places, or emotions most inspire your work?
Many Iranian photographers who shine internationally . many of whom are also close friends . inspire me. I am also influenced by East Asian documentary photographers and European artists in landscape, nature, and drone photography.
Can you tell us about your journey into photography?
Since my profession is not photography, my first official award was in the mobile photography category. I bought my first camera and lens with the prize money from that competition. Over time, with additional awards, I was able to upgrade my equipment. However, due to international sanctions on Iran and the difficult economic situation, acquiring new and complete equipment has become a dream for many Iranian photographers. Despite this, Iranian photographers still rank among the best in the world.
Can you tell us about your journey into photography?
One night, my friends and I were camping by a lakeshore. As the sky began to lighten, I used a small branch as a foreground element and waited for birds to pass by. As the sun rose, a local goose and its goslings suddenly swam through my frame, and I captured the shot.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
This photo changed my artistic path. I took it in a single shot and never imagined it would someday be entered in competitions or gain such attention.
What ideas, places, or emotions most inspire your work?
At first, I aimed to capture a color photo using soft sunlight. After framing two or three elements . light, branches, and the reflection of mountains in the lake . an unexpected subject entered the frame and transformed the image into a minimalistic photograph.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
When this photo was exhibited in various competitions and galleries, the positive reactions from both judges . the more specialized audience . and ordinary viewers encouraged me. It reassured me that I had captured the moment correctly.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
This photo introduced me to a completely new world of photography, and winning several awards with it even changed my personal life.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
If you are a photographer or passionate about photography, capture your moments. There is no such thing as a good or bad photo . just express your ideas. One day, you will see the results.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
In its very first year, NEPA demonstrated . through its reputable organizers and world-class judges . that it has the potential to become a high-level global platform. Winning a beautifully designed Gold award in this competition gave me extra motivation to continue pursuing photography.
What story or intention sits behind this body of work?
As an Iranian photographer living under unique economic and sanction-related limitations, we cannot easily execute our projects and ideas. Yet, I always try to present the best version of myself despite these challenges.
What does this NIPA recognition mean to you?
As I mentioned earlier, in its first year, NEPA showed . thanks to its well-known organizers and professional global judges . that it can grow into a world-class platform. I hope the organizers maintain this level of quality and continue improving it day by day.
Photography gives artists a voice through the shared language of images.
Images from the Photographer
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