INTERVIEW
June 10, 2020
AUTHENTIC MOMENTS
Photography by Vicki Windman
Interview by Melanie Meggs
Originally hailing from New York, Vicki Windman is a now Boston-based photographer with an eye for the artistry of everyday life. Working mainly on the streets of her hometown, Vicki is passionate about capturing the beauty of small, seemingly mundane moments that often go unnoticed. She has a gift for finding unexpected beauty in her immediate world, inviting her audience to explore the often overlooked aspects of the city and its inhabitants. Through her lens, we come to appreciate the richness of a single moment, the texture of city life, and the grace found in its everyday miracles.
“My dad was an amateur photographer, he had a great eye for irony. After an injury I had to come up with a way to find happiness, I had a mirrorless camera and decided to take a class...that was it I was hooked.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH VICKI WINDMAN
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Vicki, where do you find your inspiration to photograph?
VICKI WINDMAN: I find my inspiration on the streets. I fell in love with Coney Island because of its authenticity. I felt like time stood still and memories flooded back to simpler times. I also love people. I love engaging with the people I meet. Sometimes I just snap...other times I banter.
TPL: Has your style of photographing changed since you first started?
VW: I think there is continuity in my style. I am willing to take more chances now and try different techniques. I have also slowed down looking more for the decisive moment.
TPL: Do you have a quote or saying that fires you up?
VW: "Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith." - Steve Jobs
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists or photographers you would like to share with us, and the reason for their significance?
VW: Hands down Vivian Maier is my favorite photographer. I also love Diane Arbus, Helen Levitt, Elliott Erwitt and Martin Parr. I think Vivian Maier influenced me the most because of who she was and how she looked at people, especially children.
TPL: Where is your favourite place to photograph?
VW: Coney Island, Williamsburg and now that I have moved to Boston I think it will be Revere Beach.
I grew up with a very talented mother who is a designer. I believe her eye and my dad's humor groomed me for the art world.
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a good photographer? What’s your tips or advice for someone in your genre?
VW: I believe to become a good photographer you need to take pictures everyday. Take chances...life is short...so go with your gut. I am a street photographer. The best tip I can give is practice asking people - you have to smile- though right now is more difficult because of COVID.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the arts before photography?
VW: Photography has been my first experience in the art world.
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
VW: Right now I am documenting COVID - I hope I can photograph it in a different slant than others.
TPL: “If I wasn't photographing what would I be doing?...
VW: This is a great question! I honestly don’t know what I would be doing as I am limited physically. My other passion is technology so I probably would be engaging more in the world of apps.”
Vicki Windman is an extraordinary photographer with a knack for seeing the beauty in the small moments of everyday life. Through her lens, we are able to better appreciate the city that she now calls home and the individuals that inhabit it. She has a talent for uncovering the beautiful and often overlooked aspects of urban living, showing us that even the most everyday moments can be extraordinary. To truly appreciate Vicki's work, we invite you to connect with her and be inspired by her photographic journey.
