Vasili Loparnos: EXOTICA

Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your photography work?

My name is Vasili Loparnos and I am a photographer based in Atlanta, GA, with a focus primarily in editorial and fashion.

Can you tell us about how you got started in photography?

I was looking for a creative outlet, and I always had a good eye behind the camera. I used my moms camera and began to shoot friends at first.

What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?

I always have fun shooting especially if it's something that I am inspired by. Growing up, I watched America's Next Top Model, and that was a big source of my inspiration and was a big reason as to why I started shooting.

Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?

I usually get inspired, and then form a team and collaborate. We spitball ideas and send each other inspiration, before cracking down and really creating the vision.

As a photography expert, what sets your work apart from other photographers?

I think vibrancy and playful nature in myself translates on to my photos. I am very go with the flow as well, there is not much method to my shooting process.

Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?

Anywhere and anyone! Sometimes a model sparks my interest, sometimes I will be driving and I will see a location that I must shoot in. Sometimes it's a story in my head that I want visualized. There are so many places you get ideas from.

Can you tell us about the most memorable moment you've had as a photographer and what experience you gained from that?

The first shoot that I assembled a team: Wardrobe Stylist, MUA, Model, Hair Stylist, etc. was the first shoot that my work got on the cover of a magazine. It is still one of my favorite shoot to date!

What are the most important components of an extraordinary photograph, in your opinion?

The whole team has to flow! The clothes and makeup must compliment each other, the photographer being open to others opinions, the model being confident and knowing how to pose.

How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client's expectations during a shoot?

I communicate with the client on what's needed and always give options for the creative and artist stuff, that way, if they like it, it's there and available for them.

How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?

There are so many artists that I gain inspiration from! I really enjoy the work from photographers Ton Gomes and Luca De Massis.

How do you enhance your vision after a session by post-processing your photos? Do you have a best-kept secret for editing processing that you'd like to share?

No secret really! Just playing around with colors and seeing what works, knowing the tone of the shoot, etc. Certain colors and edits can completely change the mood of the photo!

Can you tell us about the most difficult photographic challenge you've ever had, including lighting, unexpected situations, and how you managed the issues on set?

Weather problems can always cause an issue, but things always get worked out. When I began learning skin retouching, that was a learning curve for sure! I would spend hours looking at pores.

What are your top tips for aspiring photographers on skill development and finding their own creative voice? How did you develop yours?

Have fun! Be creative! Try new things.Find out what inspires you and go from there! There is so much inspiration in this world. People, clothing, scenery, lighting, etc. Incorporate your artistry with these things that inspire you.

What is your favorite piece of work you've ever shot?

I can't say there's a favorite, I have too many!

This editorial that was shot last year was exciting as it included horses and had an important mission statement.

instagram.com/p/DGn8vmYgnjM/?img_index=1

Can you tell me about an upcoming project you're working on and the idea behind it?

I am working on a Timeless Beauty Open-Call vintage editorial shoot that will be shot in historic Chattanooga. I visited Chattanooga with my best friend and was inspired by the location I was staying near, and so I formed a team and we started throwing ideas back and forth.

Can you tell us the story behind creating the photographs you submitted?

The photographers submitted were inspired by quirky behavior and urban settings. Something whimsical and colorful, but still rough on the edges. There is a contrast between harsh and soft with this editorial. Something doesn't really make sense, but maybe that's the point. It's art!

Where can we view more of your work and connect with you?

You can view more of my work on my Instagram @vasilisdarkroom Thank you!

Photographer/Retoucher: Vasili Loparnos @vasilisdarkroom

Wardrobe Stylist/Creative Director: Nas Green @nasm0ney

Model/Makeup Artist: Bethany Odom @Hop Models @alohabethany