Fadil Tally

TIFA 2024 Interview with Fadil Tally
1st Place winner in Nature, Non-Professional, “Lights Will Guide You Home.”

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?

My journey began in 2019 when I first started diving. I was completely mesmerized by the vastness and diversity of the underwater world—from vibrant coral reefs to the kaleidoscope of fish species and the fascinating tiny creatures I never knew existed. This profound sense of wonder stayed with me, and in 2023, I finally invested in underwater housing equipment, which allowed me to capture and share the beauty I had been experiencing beneath the waves.

How do you approach a new photography project? Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept to execution?

My creative process begins with a fundamental decision: do I want to showcase the animal within its natural habitat, or create a more artistic, focused interpretation of the subject? Once I’ve established this direction, I carefully identify the ideal subject while prioritizing ethical considerations—ensuring I never harass marine life, damage delicate ecosystems, or take unnecessary risks during the shoot. I then consider compositional elements like color harmonies, thematic elements, and most importantly, whether the photograph evokes an emotional response. For my winning image, I envisioned capturing a clownfish retreating into an anemone while maintaining perfect focus on its eye—creating an intimate connection between viewer and subject.

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?

Environmental respect is the cornerstone of my work—I firmly believe that damaging any habitat for the sake of a photograph directly contradicts my purpose as an underwater photographer, which is to help people discover and appreciate the marine world. Regarding originality, I approached this particular subject with fresh eyes. While anemonefish are frequently photographed, I sought a distinctive perspective. I was drawn to the striking color contrast between the vibrant orange fish and the cool blue background, as well as the semi-transparent quality of the anemone’s tentacles, which created a unique visual narrative.

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?

They work seamlessly together, particularly in the challenging underwater environment. Technically, I must account for numerous variables—light quality and position, water clarity, particle density, and the optimal distance between camera and subject. Artistically, I’m simultaneously considering depth of field, focal points, bokeh quality, and background composition. Both technical precision and artistic sensibility are essential, and I continually strive to achieve harmony between these elements in every image I create.

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?

Post-processing is an integral part of my creative workflow. RAW images typically appear flat, lacking contrast and vibrancy—especially underwater shots. The art lies in knowing how to enhance these files thoughtfully without crossing into manipulation that misrepresents reality. I view editing as a refinement process that helps translate what I experienced in the moment to what viewers see in the final image, while maintaining the authentic essence of the scene.

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 find tremendous inspiration in photography books and by following the work of talented photographers across social media platforms. These diverse perspectives and approaches provide an endless wellspring of creative energy and technical insights. Being part of this global community of visual storytellers constantly challenges me to evolve and refine my own artistic voice.

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?

I hope this recognition amplifies my visibility and extends the reach of my work to broader audiences. Beyond career advancement, my deeper aspiration is that these images might inspire greater environmental consciousness. Our oceans are incredibly fragile ecosystems, and I believe it’s our collective responsibility to protect them. If my photography can foster a deeper connection between viewers and these underwater worlds, perhaps it will motivate more people to become stewards of our marine environments.

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?

Patience is absolutely fundamental to my approach. I never pressure or harass my subjects—it’s simply not worth compromising their wellbeing for a photograph. When working with marine life, I often encounter uncooperative or skittish animals, and in those moments, the most respectful choice is to leave them undisturbed. As I often remind myself, no photographer can outswim a fish! This patient, respectful approach not only produces more authentic images but also honors the creatures I’m privileged to photograph.

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?

I firmly believe we cannot protect what we don’t know exists. My mission is to reveal the hidden wonders of our lagoons and seas, making the invisible visible to those who might never experience these environments firsthand. I’m currently developing educational initiatives with local schools, where I’ll share my work with students to foster greater awareness of marine ecosystems. By connecting young people with these underwater worlds, I hope to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates and conservation-minded citizens.

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?

Develop a genuine connection with your subject matter—pursue photography because you’re passionate about what you’re capturing, not because of others’ expectations or trends. Staying true to your vision and values will ultimately prove more fulfilling than trying to please the masses. Remember that there are communities dedicated to every photographic style and genre; seek out these like-minded individuals who appreciate and understand your particular perspective. Authenticity resonates far more deeply than conformity ever could.