Photographer: Dany Dan @bigdany.dan
Model: Eloise Braillon @eloiseebbbTo begin, can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got into photography? Do you have any formal training in your background?
I am a photographer living near Paris, France. I started photography 6 years ago but I stopped quite quickly due to lack of time. After a break that when years I started photography again. I learned everything by following tutorials on the internet.
The funny thing is that I first learned photo retouching, then I started taking pictures.
What fascinates and motivates you the most as a photographer?
I am most in awe of all the body shots. Whether it's fashion, nude, fine art.
What I like is to discover a great photo, analyze it, then try to reproduce it to train myself.
Tell us a little more about your project. Is there a particular message you would like to convey to viewers?
In my photos I try to put the model in the foreground as much as possible. I like to prove that whatever the style of the photo the body remains beautiful.
Especially when I shoot nude, I like to focus on the overall beauty of the shot, not on the fact that there is a naked body.
What types of projects are you most interested in? Why or why not?
I really like artistic nude and fashion. But in fashion photos I like the model to take really eccentric poses and wear clothes that she would never dare to wear in normal life. I find it very interesting to make an ugly outfit look good in a photo.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in photography?
To have a lot of patience and to practice relentlessly, every day.
I would advise them to watch the best tutorials and not to hesitate to buy master classes! Then, little by little, let your imagination run free to find your own universe.
Is there a piece of equipment or prop you can't live without?
Hmmm...my Desperado after the shoot?
How do you use social media in your business? What role do they play in your work?
I use Instagram to showcase my work to the general public. But I'm not really a fan of this social network. At least Instagram has changed a lot and I don't like what this social network is becoming. Besides, I find on Instagram all the reasons why I don't use Facebook.
I am also present on 500px. I use this social network to discover the work of other photographers. I find it really good with good quality photos.
Finally I really like 35photo Pro. It's the best for inspiration I think.
Do you seek inspiration from other photographers, or does your inspiration come from other sources?
As I said earlier, I look at other photographers a lot to progress. I particularly like photographers from Eastern countries and the Russians. They do a great job.
How has photography influenced or changed you as a person?
Actually I would say that photography makes me very sensitive to the way people see themselves. I am often very touched when a model tells me that she doesn't think she is beautiful or that she has some complexes. It makes me want to do great projects with her. And when she sees the result of the shoot, and she can't believe how beautiful she is, I am very happy.
What exciting new project can we expect from you in the future?
I am currently working on a beautiful soft erotic photo project.
It's a big challenge because the result must remain beautiful and not focus the attention on the sexual aspect. I hope to succeed.
Where can we see more of your work and get in touch with you?
The easiest and fastest way is to contact me on Instagram: @bigdany.dan
