INTERVIEW
February 10, 2020
HER WONDERLAND
Photography by Mara
Interview by Melanie Meggs
The streets are alive with stories and secrets, but few can express them as artistically as Mara. Her unique style of street photography captures the poetic beauty of the city, imbuing it with the mesmerizing atmosphere of film noir cinematography. With her masterful use of contrast and lighting, Mara is able to create an alluring, emotive environment through her photographs - a place where even in the darkness, something beautiful and captivating lies in wait. Her photographs are a window into a world where the depths of the shadows and the highlights of the day meet, coming together to form a tangible, dynamic story within every frame. From the gritty grain of the film to Mara’s use of depth of field, every single photograph is an experience in its own right - one that is both mysterious and captivating. Join us as we take a closer look at Mara’s distinctive style of street photography and discover how her captivating images tell their own captivating stories.
“The girl who not exist, from the heart to the mind to the eyes to the click...and is her wonderland.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH MARA
THE PICTORIAL LIST: When did you first become interested in photography, Mara?
MARA: I was 10 years old.
TPL: Where do you find your inspiration?
M: By my emotions at that instance.
TPL: Since you began taking photographs, has your style evolved?
M: I have no style.
TPL: Who are your favourite artists?
M: Vivian Maier, Josef Koudelka, Hirohiko Araki, Ferdinando Scianna, Letizia Battaglia, Roger Ballen but the inspiration is born by life and emotions around us.
TPL: Where is your favourite place to shoot?
M: On the road, in the sky... where everything is (im)possible
Quotes are a plus...pictures speak by their own light. My quotes are mine and depends by the emotions I feel in that instance. Who watch the picture, is free to feel different emotions.
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
M: What I think is important are the emotions...a tool is just a tool.
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a photographer? Do you have any advice for someone starting out?
M: Everybody should express themselves in some way. For me, it is photography and music. I do not have anything to teach to anyone, as feelings are what grow up inside people.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the arts before photography?
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
M: Will see...
TPL: “When I am not out photographing, I (like to)…
M: I'm not a photographer...I'm just a dreamer.”
In conclusion, Mara is an artist that truly speaks to the emotion of film noir. Through her unique style and sound, Mara captures the moody, dark and dramatic atmosphere that is so well-known and loved. If you are a fan of the classic film noir aesthetic, then you won't want to miss out on Mara's art. So dream and connect with Mara - experience the emotion of film noir and get ready to be taken on a captivating journey.