GABRIEL BROWN INTERVIEW

Photographer/Retoucher: Gabriel Brown / Chaotic Beauty Photography LLC @chaoticbeauty_photog

https://chaotic-beauty-photography.kavyar.site

Model: Kimberly Spicer @kimberspicer

Model/Makeup Artist: Celtic Beauty @a_celtic_beauty

Gabriel Brown is a visionary photographer who has mastered the art of storytelling through his lens. With a deep-rooted passion for capturing the essence of human emotion and the beauty in chaos, Gabriel's work transcends traditional boundaries. His signature style blends the glamour of meticulously curated portraits with the raw unpredictability of creative exploration, leaving a lasting impression on all who view his art. From his early fascination with cameras to his evolution as a studio and character portrait artist, Gabriel’s journey is as captivating as his images. In this interview, he takes us behind the scenes to share the inspiration, challenges, and creative processes that define his distinctive approach to photography.

How did you begin your journey into photography, and what drew you specifically to studio and character portraits?

I think my journey started when I was only 4 or 5 years old. I would see my mom shooting with her SLR camera and became fascinated with how focusing and zooming the lens would change whatever I was looking at. I became fully invested in it as an art form when I was about 15 and started taking photography classes in high school, learning about the concepts of depth of field, composition, and light and shadow, which ultimately led to earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in photography.

Studio and character portraits were just something that naturally spoke to me when it came to capturing emotions and creating a mood. I had originally been shooting street photography and candids, where you have no control over the scene and just have to observe and wait for the right moment. When I started working with people in the studio, I realized how much more you can create when you have control over the setting, and you can really tell a story your own way.

Your work blends the elegance of glamour with the unpredictability of chaos. How do you approach this juxtaposition in your compositions?

I embrace it. There is only so much that can be controlled in the creative process, so I fully expect there to be a lot of happy accidents when I start working on a new concept or lighting idea, especially if I don't fully understand how to go about doing it. The flip side is that there can be even more unhappy accidents that prevent me from capturing an image or a whole vision.

What inspires your creative vision when crafting portraits that tell a story or evoke deep emotions?

I think lighting plays the biggest role. When an idea comes to mind or I'm suddenly inspired by another photograph, it's really the finer details involving the light and shadows that stand out in my mind. The model really helps crystalize the overall idea, but crafting the story comes down to how to tell it, and the lighting is what does that.

Can you share a moment when a chaotic element unexpectedly enhanced a shoot's outcome?

When I first started using reflective material, specifically the silver mylar seen in a lot of my portfolio, I had a pretty narrow idea of what I wanted to create with it. But as soon as I turned the equipment on and saw how the light was bouncing all over the place, and how difficult it was to shape the material, I knew that I would just have to embrace it and hope for the best. It worked out so well in several shoots, and I still don't know exactly what I did in any of them.

Studio lighting and set design play a crucial role in your portraits. What’s your process for creating a compelling visual atmosphere?

Having a lot of space to work in is really the key element for me. It's extremely difficult, although not impossible, to shoot in a compressed environment. I like for myself and the models to feel comfortable, but the space also allows for the lighting and equipment to be placed, angled, and moved much more easily. Even though the final images tend to display a very tight composition, where there is the illusion of space, having an actual open environment helps with the mood.

On a technical level, I always approach it by employing the lighting one piece at a time, with a lot of test shooting. I move from focusing on the larger details, such as soft or hard light or lighting angles, to the absolute smallest, like the placement of the model's hand or how the lights reflect in their eyes.

Fashion and character photography often require collaboration. How do you balance your vision with the input of models, stylists, and designers?

I keep a pretty open mind to everyone's ideas, and trust is certainly key to the creative process. Even if I have a solid vision of what I want to do and how to do it from beginning to end, I'm always happy to shift a bit as long as it adds to the overall concept and doesn't involve abandoning the original idea or changing the whole concept right then and there. I've never been in a position where someone came to me with a fully fleshed out idea and I didn't want to do it, or where they didn't want to be a part of my own. But collaboration requires that everyone involved trusts one another with what their part will be.

“Beauty in Chaos” is a compelling theme. Can you share how you interpret this concept and how it influences your photographic style?

"Chaotic Beauty" came about when I was studying photography in college and found myself in a really deep headspace one day. I had been practicing macro photography and spending a lot of time looking at the extremely fine details of my photos, almost on a granular level. It got to the point where I wasn't even seeing the image anymore, just tiny points of light and color, and there was no discernible pattern. But as I visually zoomed out I started to see the image again. Ultimately, I realized that beauty can come from within a lot of things, especially when you don't initially see it.

What has been your most challenging shoot, and how did you adapt to achieve the desired results?

The most challenging shoot I did was just over a year ago with my wife, which is currently in my portfolio. We were trying to create a New Year's concept involving a lot of makeup, wardrobe, and a complex lighting scheme that I had never attempted before. I was basically trying to create a tunnel with reflective mylar, with my camera and a strobe pointed into one end, and my wife posed at the other end with a secondary strobe positioned behind her for fill light. The setup was tough, but persistence and adjustments led to some of my favorite images.

Are there any specific characters or themes you hope to explore in future projects?

I'd like to start exploring more complex lighting styles. I almost never use more than two lights at a time in the studio, but I'd love to step outside my comfort zone and experiment with more intricate setups.

What advice would you offer to emerging photographers looking to create their unique voice in the realm of fashion and studio portraits?

Don't ever consider yourself an expert in your craft; always strive to perfect it by practicing and refining it. Always remember your mistakes, especially if they end up working to your advantage. And don't ever think that better (expensive) equipment makes you a better photographer; it's just light and shadow – there is no right or wrong way to create it.

Gabriel Brown’s unique ability to capture the interplay of elegance and chaos in his photography speaks to his mastery of the craft and his deep understanding of storytelling through visuals. His dedication to continuous growth and his collaborative spirit set him apart as not just a photographer but an artist with a profound vision. As he continues to push the boundaries of creativity, exploring new techniques and narratives, Gabriel remains an inspiration to aspiring photographers and art enthusiasts alike. His journey reminds us that beauty truly can be found in the most unexpected places, and the stories we tell through art are as limitless as our imaginations.

Tatiana Drok Interview

Tatiana Drok is a visionary force in the world of fashion photography, known for her seamless transition from costume design to capturing breathtaking images that have graced the pages of high-end magazines and campaigns for prestigious brands. What began as a solution to a shortage of photographers who could capture her designs evolved into a thriving career that reflects her unique artistic sensibility and deep understanding of fashion. With an innate ability to interpret a client’s vision and a remarkable intuition for future trends, Tatiana has redefined the role of the photographer as both an artist and a storyteller. Her work stands as a testament to her dedication and her talent for bringing elegance, innovation, and soul to every project she undertakes.

What first drew you to fashion photography, and how did you transition into glossy magazine shoots and high-end fashion projects?

I became a photographer because, as a costume designer, I was sorely lacking professionals in the field of fashion shoots for my products. I decided to try to shoot my costumes myself as I see and feel them. I succeeded, and my work as a photographer has been highly recognized by designers and brands. I became so passionate about photography that I stopped being a designer. Now I only create images

Can you share a memorable story about a project where you were able to bring a client's vision to life in a unique way?

I consider all my work unique in some way. In order to create a good product, I let the brand philosophy come through my vision and feelings and get to know the client’s inner world more deeply through their profile and references. I find it important to discuss together the style in which the client wants to shoot. I bring the client to a “picture from their imagination.”

When working with well-known brands versus emerging brands, do you approach your shoots differently, or is your creative process consistent?

Usually, big-name brands have a clear set of requirements, and here it is important not to deviate from the set course. It’s essential to professionally hear the client’s desire, observing all the nuances and requirements—no amateurishness unless it’s asked for.

For a start-up brand, everything is not as strict, and the photographer often acts as an artist who comes up with the idea and concept. All in all, everything is individualized.

How do you generate fresh ideas for each shoot, especially with the fast pace and constant evolution in the fashion world?

Things work themselves out. I see a cool location, and immediately, in my imagination, I have an idea of what and how to shoot there. It’s all somewhere inside me, in the factory settings. I can’t explain it—I just feel it, and everything happens by itself.

What challenges have you faced in the international publishing world, and how have they shaped your approach to photography?

Many magazines exist through advertising, and that’s fine; only a few publications maintain some kind of identity and their own style without relying on monetization. I’m sure that the rating of a publication largely depends on the taste of the editorial staff. How popular a magazine is depends on the desire to get into it, which means there’s a contest basis or financial guarantee.

I prefer the contest! I love getting covers.

How does your background in design influence your photography style and creative direction on set?

Education and experience don’t just influence; they help you navigate your own style, finding what is particularly cool and in demand. It’s what they come to you for.

What role do trends play in your work, and how do you balance them with your unique vision to stay relevant in fashion?

I have an amazing ability to sense future trends. This is probably due to the fact that, during my time as a designer, I developed a keen eye for trends and am constantly learning about related trends.

How do you stay inspired and continuously push creative boundaries, especially when collaborating with top-tier brands and magazines?

My inspiration is inexhaustible, and while creating my work, I willingly share the result with everyone who lacks it. I would love to never run out of funds for creative projects and to find sponsors for them as well.

What are your aspirations for the future of your career, and are there any dream projects or brands you’d love to work with next?

I prefer to keep all plans and dreams a secret; otherwise, they are not destined to come true. But I really hope that I will be able to realize at least part of my plans.

Conclusion: As Tatiana Drok continues to evolve her craft, she remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring creatives, and her work speaks to her rare ability to merge style with substance. Her background in design, combined with an unwavering passion for photography, has allowed her to push creative boundaries and cultivate a personal style that resonates globally. Tatiana’s journey is one of relentless creativity and vision, and her aspirations for the future promise even more groundbreaking work. Through her art, she invites us to see fashion not merely as an industry, but as a canvas for profound expression and beauty.

Photo: @droktata_photo_vibe

Fashion: @butaforfreak

MUA: @thepavlovaanna

Hair: @trend__hairstyles

Model: @mariaa.rodkina

Oliver Rindelaub Interview

Photo: @oliver_rindelaub

Model: @cassidyrose_ofthedevilsgarden

Model: @lady.kikki

In the world of photography, every artist has a unique journey that shapes their creative vision and craft. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with an exceptional photographer whose passion for fashion photography began in high school and has evolved into a career filled with captivating editorials. Their journey from commercial photography to the dynamic world of fashion allows them to create more than just images—they build stories, seamlessly blending the art of lighting, composition, and concept. Join us as we explore the creative process, inspirations, and challenges behind the lens with this talented photographer.

1. Can you share the story behind how you first discovered your passion for photography?
   I started photography in high school and took an apprenticeship in a studio for commercial photography. Many years later, in 2017, I found my passion in fashion photography since it is more than simply taking portraits. It adds elements of product photography and aspects of the world we live in.

2. What themes or subjects do you find yourself drawn to the most, and why?
   Fashion editorials are the field I like to explore. It’s not about taking a single shot but building a story and following a concept, which often has a deeper purpose in the designer’s mind. Understanding the concept behind the fashion and translating it into pictures and videos is the real task for the whole team.

3. How would you describe your photographic style, and how has it evolved over time?
   My photographic style for fashion photography is clean, pure, and handmade without a lot of editing or additional after-effects. In the beginning, I used heavier color grading, but now it’s quite reduced, mostly done with lighting on the set. Over the years, I’ve also transitioned from portrait lenses to wide-angle lenses to incorporate more of the location into my fashion stories.

4. What role does lighting play in your work, and how do you approach capturing the perfect light for a shot?
   Lighting is always tied to the concept of the fashion editorial. The mood, location, and story behind the fashion all dictate the lighting. For example, in a recent dark gothic fashion editorial, we used a hallway behind our studio with a big elevator to create a spooky mood. I combined colored LED lights with additional flash for the fashion and models’ faces to achieve the desired effect.

5. Which photographers or artists have influenced your work, and in what ways have they impacted your creative process?
   I admire classic portrait photographers from the 1930s and 1940s, like Edward Steichen, Horst P. Horst, and Irving Penn, who were masters of light. I also love modern classics like Richard Avedon, Herb Ritts, and Albert Watson. And of course, Tim Walker—an absolute genius in fashion photography.

6. Can you walk us through a memorable photoshoot experience that had a lasting impact on your approach to photography?

   
   In 2017, I had my first “real” fashion photoshoot. I worked on a project in a hotel suite with three models and another photographer. We had matching outfits for the models and built a storyline. This photoshoot became my first magazine publication, and I realized how much I loved conceptual shoots. The key lesson: always work with a concept, a moodboard, and a story.

7. How do you balance the technical aspects of photography with the creative vision you want to achieve?
   The more experienced you become with your gear, the more flexibility you have in creating the light that fits your vision. In commercial work, you might have to meet the client’s exact expectations, but in my personal projects, I tend to use reduced gear. Sometimes, even a small speedlight can be enough, depending on the mood you want to create.

8. What challenges have you faced as a photographer, and how have you overcome them?
   The biggest challenge is finding the paid kind of work that I love. Fashion editorials are fantastic to shoot, but finding companies that will fund them is tough. In the meantime, I work with creative people—models, designers, makeup artists, and stylists—for portfolio projects. I also look for sponsors, mostly small businesses, who can’t afford big photo productions. The key is to deliver consistent, high-quality work over many years. Although I’d love for paid projects to grow faster, there’s no skipping the process.

9. How do you stay inspired and push the boundaries of your work when tackling new projects or concepts?
   I’m often drawn to fashion creations that I don’t initially understand. This curiosity—asking myself “why?”—is what drives my photography. Every new project is a puzzle, and I love piecing together elements that I’m familiar with, while always adding one new, unexplored ingredient.

10. What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who are just starting out in the industry?
    If I knew the recipe for success in the fashion industry, I’d gladly share it. But my advice to beginners is to persist. In my experience, it takes about three years to specialize in any field. Focus on your favorite area, like fashion, and after three years, decide if you want to continue or explore a new path in photography.

Conclusion:

Through dedication and a deep connection to fashion and storytelling, this photographer has mastered the delicate balance between technical precision and creative expression. From the subtle play of light to the artful collaboration with designers, their work consistently pushes boundaries and invites audiences into a world of visual storytelling. As we conclude, we are left inspired by their commitment to the craft and the thoughtful advice they offer to aspiring photographers—persist, explore, and always seek to understand the "why" behind every shot.

Mehgan Fallahi-Marzooni Interview

Photo: @mrs.misc.art Model: @im.zulieka

Interview in Darkly Magazine

From an early fascination with a childhood camera to becoming an accomplished visual storyteller, Mehgan Fallahi-Marzooni has always been captivated by the art of capturing life’s intricacies. Her journey, marked by a relentless pursuit of creative expression, reveals a deep passion not only for photography but for crafting unique moments that resonate beyond the frame. As a "craft queen" with a love for various forms of art—from poetry to painting—Mehgan seamlessly blends her diverse talents to bring authentic and emotionally charged stories to life. In this insightful interview, she shares how her artistic evolution continues to shape her voice, the power of storytelling, and the importance of pushing creative boundaries in an ever-evolving industry.

Interview with Mehgan Fallahi-Marzooni

What initially sparked your interest in photography, and how has that passion evolved over time?

"I've always been a creative person and got my first camera at age 10. I instantly fell in love with photography, but my creative spark has never died. I am a self-proclaimed 'craft queen' and dabble in many arts besides photography (poetry, crafting, painting, etc). Art allows me to express myself in a way that words cannot."

How do you approach developing a unique style or voice in your photography?

"I think developing your own style or voice in photography can be difficult. Photography is a competitive space; there are tons of photographers, and developing a signature look or style to your photography that stands out from what other creatives are doing is always a challenge. My style has evolved over time, but my 'voice' in photography is always trying to develop a relationship with my client, create a safe and comfortable space for them to create alongside me, and do my best to tell their story or convey emotions through images."

Can you share a particularly memorable photoshoot experience and what made it stand out?

"I think some of the most memorable photoshoot experiences I've had were with friends of mine. I have several friends that I've done shoots for fun, engagement photos, wedding photos, and maternity. The trust involved in allowing me to document such special moments in their lives warms my heart. It makes art worth it for me. They trusted me and gave me creative freedom with their memories, and for that I am truly grateful."

What role does storytelling play in your work, and how do you create narratives through your photos?

"Storytelling plays a large role in my work and I always do my best to capture the essence of the individual I'm working with. Many photographers try to limit the amount of shots they take and will only shoot a specific pose. Though it often creates extra work for me, I don't just shoot specific poses, but I shoot the moments in between. Some of the most beautiful images I've captured are candid moments that reflect raw emotion. That is life; life isn't perfectly posed. It's raw, and real, and those are my favorite stories to tell."

Who or what are some of your biggest influences in photography and beyond?

"Some of my biggest influences in photography is music. I often get inspired by songs or lyrics that help me create concepts for my art. I also find inspiration in every photographer and creative that I meet. Everyone has something to offer whether it's a different style or perspective. We all can learn from each other, regardless of how new or seasoned we are.

"How do you stay inspired and creative, especially during periods of creative block?

"Staying inspired during creative blocks can be hard, but I try to listen to music, browse Pinterest, read or write poetry, or engage in other types of crafts. I will also sometimes pick a concept or style I've been wanting to practice or learn and force myself to give it a try. Sometimes taking the initiative, even when you're feeling uninspired, is enough to kick start creativity."

What’s your process like when preparing for a new shoot, from concept to execution?

"Despite the fact I've been shooting for a long time, I always leave myself a little time to feel nervous before a photo shoot. I care deeply about my work, about the execution of my ideas, and about the model experience when working with me, so I always have to take some time to center myself to ensure I'm bringing the best version of myself to a photo session. I often storyboard out concepts, and spend a lot of time seeking a model, a location to shoot, and visualizing the end result. After executing the shoot, I leave time to reflect on the process, what could I have done differently or better, and of course leave some time for gratitude that I get to do something that I love so much."

How do you see the role of technology in photography evolving, and are there any specific tools or techniques you favor?

"As someone who has been shooting for close to 20 years, there have been some amazing advancements in technology. I can only see those continuing to improve. A lot of people are not fans of AI, but I personally really enjoy generative AI within Photoshop and Lightroom when it comes to removing unwanted objects from photos. Generative AI is not perfect, and sometimes you definitely get some funky generative fills, but overall I find it extremely helpful and to be a huge time saver. It used to be extremely difficult 10-15 years ago to remove a complex object from a photo, and it used to require advanced skills in Photoshop. I look forward to seeing what new technology emerges over the next couple decades."

What advice would you give aspiring photographers looking to make their mark in the industry?

"The advice that I have for new photographers is to do things that scare you. Go outside your comfort zone, push the limits, and be creative. I also highly recommend learning the technical sides of your camera, learning various lighting techniques, and learning how to edit. These are all very valuable skills that a lot of photographers take for granted. I, myself, was late to the game on a lot of the technicalities of photography. I am still learning, as it is an ever-evolving industry, but the best things you can do is have as many tools in your toolbelt as possible. Experiment and find what works best for you."

Do you have any upcoming projects or goals that you’re excited to explore?

"I have a few concept shoots that I am working on, and would like to do a couple of image series with those concepts. I'm very excited and look forward to further developing the ideas. I think some of these concepts will push me creatively and technically, and I will always take any opportunity to grow as a photographer."

Conclusion:

As Mehgan embarks on new projects and embraces the creative challenges ahead, her work continues to inspire and uplift, offering a refreshing perspective on the role of authenticity in art. Her commitment to telling stories through candid, heartfelt imagery stands as a testament to her enduring passion and dedication to her craft. With each new shoot, Mehgan captures the essence of life—unfiltered and beautifully raw—inviting us to see beyond the surface and feel the emotions woven into each frame. Her advice to aspiring photographers is a reminder of the endless potential in pushing one's creative limits, echoing her belief that true artistry lies in fearlessly exploring and embracing the unknown.

IVAN CROSS INTERVIEW

Ivan Cross is a multifaceted artist and model whose work transcends boundaries, blending creativity, boldness, and an unmistakable allure. With an artistic journey shaped by passion and a deep understanding of visual storytelling, Ivan’s unique perspective has captivated audiences both on the runway and in front of the camera. His striking presence, combined with an innate ability to channel emotion through his art, has made him a standout figure in the world of fashion and creative expression. As someone who seamlessly merges the worlds of modeling and art, Ivan continues to redefine what it means to be a modern-day muse.

Ivan, your creative journey spans multiple fields, from modeling and photography to creative direction and now music. How do you find balance between these different artistic expressions?

They're all just different ways to express the same vision. Each project feeds the other, and music feels like the next step in telling my story. The balance happens naturally that way.

As a model, your visuals are known for their unique style and powerful presence. How do you approach embodying different concepts and characters in front of the camera?

I focus on the emotion behind each concept. It’s less about playing a character and more about channeling a feeling. I let the mood guide me — well, and fashion, of course.

Your visuals are known for their striking and innovative nature. Where do you draw inspiration from, and how do you translate that into your artistic work?

Inspiration comes from everything — art, people, places, even small moments. I’m always observing, and I let those impressions blend together. Translating it into my work is more instinctual, like capturing a feeling in the right visual form.

As someone deeply engaged in human rights activism, how do these experiences shape your artistic perspective and the stories you choose to tell through your projects?

Being involved in activism has changed the way I see things. Feels like It’s added layers to my perspective, and that naturally finds its way into the stories I tell. There’s always something deeper “beneath the surface”.

With your upcoming music project, you’re stepping into a new creative realm. Can you share what sparked your interest in music and how this project differs from your previous work?

Music has always been in the background for me, something that’s been waiting for the right moment. This project feels unique because it lets me step away from the visual and dive into something more intangible, where emotions take the lead.

Given your involvement in such diverse creative fields, how do you see your artistic identity evolving in the coming years?

I see my identity becoming more fluid, blending all the different fields. It’s about exploring their intersections and pushing boundaries, wherever that takes me.

Creating this project entirely on your own showcases your versatility and vision. What message or emotion do you hope viewers experience when they see this body of work?

I aimed to convey the tension between what’s seen and what’s hidden. The reflections and distortions suggest that something deeper lies beneath the surface, inviting viewers to look beyond and question what’s real.

Can you tell us more about your experiences volunteering at Hollywood City Hall and how this community engagement impacts your artistry?

I started volunteering at Hollywood City Hall through my manager and friend, who’s deeply involved in the community. It wasn’t something I planned, but being part of that world has changed the way I think about life. It's given me a new perspective and influenced my art, connecting it more to real people, stories and problems.

What advice would you give to other artists and models who want to explore different mediums and push the boundaries of their creative comfort zones?

Don’t be afraid to take risks and embrace the unknown. Stepping into a new medium can feel uncertain, but that’s where the real growth happens. Trust your instincts and let each form of expression guide you in new directions.

With so many projects and responsibilities, how do you stay motivated and inspired to continue pushing your creative boundaries?

I find motivation in the constant evolution of my ideas. When I challenge myself to go further and explore the unexpected, it keeps the creative process engaging and fresh.

Ivan Cross’s creative journey is a testament to his commitment to self-expression and the power of art in shaping identity. With each project, Ivan pushes the boundaries of his craft, challenging conventions and inspiring those around him. His talent, versatility, and authenticity shine through, making him not only a model to watch but an artist whose impact will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the industry. As Ivan continues to evolve, we can only anticipate more groundbreaking work from this extraordinary talent.