Interview with MILA ZLATINOV, BULGARIA
For me film photography is a form of expression and simply something that brings a lot of joy in my life, so it is worth the time, energy and money.
I'm super thrilled to have you here, Mila. Please tell us a bit about yourself and your photography.
Mila: Hello world. I’m Mila, originally from Bulgaria, had the luck of being raised in a variety of different places and now living in Munich, Germany. I’ve been photographing since my teens, always being surrounded by different forms of art, yet photography became a tool of expression for me, because of its connection to people. I find people very interesting and getting them in that completely honest and comfortable state when you take their photo has always been the appeal for me. Other than that I just like capturing anything that surrounds me, I particularly like forms, reflections and simplicity in general.
What type of film do you use and what camera do you use it with? Why do you prefer these?
Mila: At the beginning I used a Canon A1, I recently switched to a Nikon F3, a Mamiya 67 is still on the wishlist. 80% of my pictures are shot on a black and white film as I'm in love with the feel it gives. It can be very abstract and at the same time, it reduces everything to the essentials. I am still testing all films I can get, most used once are Ilford Delta, HP5, Kodak Tri-X, Kodak PORTA.
What do you think film has that digital doesn't have?
Mila: I like digital in the sense that it can be very practical and fast in the process, which is perfect for "getting the job done". For me analog is a form of art, not that you cannot take beautiful artistic photographs in digital, you most certainly can, but shooting a film, developing it, doing your own prints at home is a craftsmanship, that gives you the opportunity to be the executor every step of the way.
Do you print your own photographs or are you comfortable having them printed in a lab?
Mila: I do both, as I am still in the learning process.
What motivates you to continue making photographs with film? Have you learned anything about yourself through film photography?
Mila: Learning and getting better at it. I've definitely learned (some) patience while counting ;)
Are there any photographers that influenced your way of making pictures?
Mila: Nobody specifically. Most of my pictures are photojournalistic, none are really planned. I like the honesty behind the moment, especially nowadays, where everything is very posed.
Do you see any value or merit shooting with film?
Mila: Well you better see a value, because it is pricey ;) The value of any art is the feeling it gives you (or the audience). For me it is a form of expression and simply something that brings a lot of joy in my life, so it is worth the time, energy and money.
What do you think your future is like with film photography?
Mila: I will continue doing what I am doing and see what comes on the way ;)
Any dream film photography project in mind?
Mila: Besides photography, music has always been part of my life, so the next project is going to be a combination of both.
Would you like to offer some good words to those who want to try film photography for the first time? What must they learn before venturing into this format?
Mila: If you simply want to photograph, pick up a camera, any camera and start shooting. If it is something you really want to get into, start reading, because there is plenty to read ; ) But most of all, shoot and develop, write your notes and shoot and develop again. Make your own experience with film and see what works best for you.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on film photography, Mila. Let's keep in touch!
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Well now, if you are a passionate film photographer and would like to be interviewed? I’d love to hear from you. Send me an email with the subject, "Interview me", and share your story, thoughts, and work related to film photography. I’ll get back to you as soon as I receive your request for an interview.
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Cheers!
Mel