Interview with Xavier Rey

#1 Please introduce yourself:
My name is Xavier Rey, I’m French and I live in south west of France, in Bordeaux last 5 years.

#2 How did you get interested in photography?
My interest in photography was born in 2005, following the meeting of the collective of photographers SPBordeaux. Fascinated by the waterscapes, I directed my photographic work naturally to the long exposure to capture the moods of the atlantic coast.

#3 Do you have an artistic/photographic background?
No, I didn’t do studies in photography, I am a self-taught photographer. I learned by experimenting with techniques, naturally.

#4 How much preparation do you put into taking a photograph? Are you planning every step or is it always spontaneous?
It depends. Usually, when I took a picture is a very spontaneous way, a breakthrough meeting with a place. But it also happens to have a photograph in the head in relation to a place, but not be satisfied with the lighting conditions, exposure … So I return to this place several times in several hours of the day to get the terms I want.

#5 What was the inspiration for you to make black and white photographs in square format? Is it the only format that you prefer?
The discovery of great talents like M. Kenna for exemple, or other less known photographers gave me the taste for black & white and the square format. The square format is a format that suits me perfectly in terms of composition, the use of space, and the strength of an image. I see now square, and most of my pictures are in this format. But it happens sometimes use other formats depending on the type of photographs necessary…

#6 I need to ask you about Julie, how is it to be in relationship with other photographer?
Julie is my wife, began photography together, and we also grew together. I think that is a strength and a wonderful opportunity to share a passion as photography with his wife. Indeed, we exchanged our opinions, advice, knowledge therm photography and direct competition is something exciting in our lives.

#7 What does photography mean to you? What kind of emotions do you want to introduce to viewers?
The photograph has a very important part in my life is a moment of freedom, relaxation, a time when we are either at peace with itself. Photography is for me a vision of the author and I try to translate my vision of author in my work, with particular moods, feelings that have appeared obvious at the time of the shooting. When I make a photograph, I do not think people who are going to see is a personal work in agreement with myself, and I am very happy if after this work gives viewers emotions.