Andrés Gallego
TIFA 2024 Interview with Andrés Gallego
1st Place winner in Portfolio, Professional, “Out of The Field”
Q: What drew you to the specific genre of photography you specialize in? Was it a personal experience, a mentor, or something else that sparked your interest?
First of all I would like to thank the organisation for this fantastic recognition, it is both a personal and professional compliment.
In relation to the question, this photographic style really found me, rather than me finding it. Since I was a child I loved the world of art history and everything related to painting, but I never took the step to delve into this discipline.
With the discovery I had with photography back in 2017, I began a process of self-knowledge that led me through different styles until finally the planned photography found me, and this in turn gave entry to the use of pictorial techniques and narrative. In this way I found what I had longed for: my own style.
Q: How do you approach a new photography project? Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept to execution?
First of all, I have a phase that lasts several months of study in which I read everything related to the subject I want to deal with and the painter I am going to be inspired by. This phase is very important because it is the one that gives me the narrative basis to support the concept I want to represent.
Then the creative part begins, the creation of a set can last from three weeks to a month and a half approximately. From the choice of materials, design of the set and construction to the final finish, trying to base myself on pictorial techniques which gives the final aspect to the image. It is interesting to add that everything that appears in the scene has been created by hand, there is nothing added in post production.
Q: Your winning project stood out to the jury for its unique perspective. How do you ensure your work maintains originality and authenticity in a competitive field?
The most important thing is to be true to yourself and do what you really need to show the world. You can be all the photographers in the world, but you will never get an honest photograph.
Q: As a photographer, how do you balance technical expertise with artistic vision? Do you lean more heavily on one, or do they work hand in hand for you?
The two really go hand in hand, because in the execution part of a set, while painting I have to take into account how the light is going to hit and how it is going to show on camera, so it is necessary that both techniques flow together.
Q: What role does post-processing play in your work? Do you consider it an extension of your creativity, or do you aim to keep your images as natural as possible?
An important part of my work is that I do everything on set, i.e. I don’t add elements later in post production. In the case of colour retouching or removing imperfections or certain elements, its use is necessary but I limit it as much as possible, but by personal choice.
Q: How do you stay inspired and motivated in an ever-evolving industry? Are there any specific sources—books, films, or other art forms—that fuel your creativity?
I create for myself, to show in images what I am not able to show in words. I don’t let myself be influenced by the overwhelming world around us, as we are oversaturated with images and works of different qualities.
I get my inspiration mainly from my own feelings, from direct observation of everyday situations or scenes and always supported by other forms such as philosophy, cinema and, of course, painting.
Q: Winning this award is a significant accomplishment. How do you plan to leverage this recognition to further your career or make a greater impact in the photography world?
Winning this award is a great opportunity to show my work, it is important to be able to transmit the message and this award is an unbeatable opportunity. But it’s important to keep working and continue creating along the same lines.
Q: How do you approach connecting with your subjects, especially in projects that require a deep level of trust and intimacy, such as portraits or documentary work?
Although I occasionally work with other people, the main model in most of my works is my wife. The choice of her as the main character is important because after so many years she is an extension of my own self, so I really represent a self-portrait in the works.
Q: In what ways do you believe photography can influence societal change? Have you worked on projects that aim to raise awareness or advocate for a cause?
Photography is really important because it has a direct impact on the viewer, especially documentary photography. Since the creation of this medium, photography has had, has and will have a global relevance to tell events that would otherwise be unknown to us.
Currently the projects I work on delve into the philosophical side of being, although it is not a current issue in the news, it is a universal experience, it affects us all equally, regardless of what part of the world you are from.
Q: What advice would you give to photographers about finding their unique voice in a crowded industry? How can they stay true to their vision while appealing to a broader audience?
It is important that they are faithful to what they want to tell, imitating or creating beautiful images for the sake of recognition is short-lived. In art nowadays almost everything has been done, but your way of telling a story or a feeling is what makes it unique.
