Sina Nasr
TIFA 2023 Interview with Sina Nasr
1st Place winner in Science, Non-Professional, “Infection”
Q: Can you briefly tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue photography?
I’ve been passionate about photography for as long as I can remember, but it was around 2013 that I made a conscious decision to elevate my skills. Delving deeper into the art, I stumbled upon the works of a particular artist whose creations completely reshaped my perspective on photography. Motivated by this newfound inspiration, I dedicated myself to furthering my education. This journey led me through university, where I successfully completed a Master of Art in Photography, solidifying my commitment to the craft and honing my skills.
Q: What drove you to submit your work to the TIFA competition and your thoughts on how winning this competition impacted your artistic journey?
I was driven to submit my work to the TIFA competition with the desire for my photography to be evaluated by a professional and distinguished group. The reputation of TIFA and Farmani Group made it an ideal platform for such assessment. Winning the competition would not only be a personal achievement but also a privilege, as it would provide recognition and the prestigious trophy, further impacting my artistic journey positively.
Q: Could you describe any challenges you faced while capturing this moment (winning image/s)?
Capturing an image imposes its own challenges, with a key hurdle being the quest to determine the ideal timing and composition. Achieving the desired result often meant revisiting the location multiple times. In the case of the ‘INFECTION’ photograph, the challenge extended to choosing the most impactful shot from several options. The decision-making process involved careful scrutiny of details, contemplation of potential adjustments, and meticulous refinement to ensure the final image attained the highest level of excellence.
Q: What, in your opinion, are the most important factors in creating great images?
In my opinion, having a solid foundation in art and photography is crucial. It provides the knowledge needed to pursue growth and continuously improve the quality of your photographs. Being able to extract the best from ideas, subjects, objects, or situations encountered is key to creating great images.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of photography?
The most challenging aspect of photography, at least in my experience, is sourcing the ideal materials and frames to effectively convey the envisioned story. It’s a personal challenge to match the mental image with the physical elements in order to capture the essence of the narrative.
Q: What motivates and drives your photography?
My photography is driven by the motivation to express the unsaid, conveying emotions and thoughts that I find more comfortable to articulate through my works. It serves as a visual language to communicate the unspoken aspects of my experiences and feelings.
Q: What’s next for you in your career as a photographer?
I aspire to continue creating meaningful photographs, completing ongoing projects, and continuously improving my craft. Additionally, I aim to showcase my work to larger audiences through exhibitions, contributing to the broader appreciation and understanding of my photography.
