Can you please introduce yourself?

I am a New York based photographer originally from Riga, Latvia, and have been calling this city home since 1991. Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was originally inspired by my father who had a photography business back home, where I would accompany him on shoots and help him develop photos in a darkroom that was in our apartment. I like to immerse myself in art and photography, finding opportunities for creative exploration and expression. My journey with photography began with analog cameras, later transitioning to digital in 2005. I am interested in documenting my surroundings, portraiture, street photography and experimenting with image making. My work is characterized by an exploration of unpredictable perspectives, and dreamlike imagery, venturing into the unknown and embracing spontaneity. These days, I was to explore more photo documentation, and will be focusing my photo work on the gnawa music in Morocco this coming May.

Can you share some insights into your creative process and how being part of a photography collective influences your work?

Joining CMC back in 2016 has been incredibly inspiring and fulfilled my need for a creative community of like-minded creatives. Seeing the work of other members, the encouraging critiques we exchange, and the monthly meetups all provide a much-needed boost of motivation to keep creating, gaining new perspectives and ideas. When I feel creatively stagnant, I find inspiration by going outside, exploring new environments, and talking with other people. Looking at the work of other photographers, visiting museums, watching movies and just being outside helps to spark new ideas for me. I also keep a digital journal where I record ideas for future series.

How do you believe your photography style or approach has evolved over time, and what advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to develop their own unique visual language?

Throughout the years, my work keeps evolving and it’s nice to step back and see how it has evolved over time through the exploration of different styles and subjects. The best way to develop ones own photographic style and visual language is to keep creating new work, and learning about the practices of other artists. Further delving deeper into the "why" behind ones work, reflecting on the themes and emotions that come up as a common thread. Through consistent practice, photographers can refine their skills and express their unique stories. It’s helpful to get inspired by the work of others and in unexpected places. I enjoy going to performances, art and photography exhibits which give me inspiration and generating new ideas.

Could you highlight one of your recent projects and discuss the inspiration behind it, as well as any challenges you encountered during its execution? Please share 3-4 images from that project.

My street photography series utilizes vibrant colors and reality through unconventional perspectives. I'm particularly drawn to shadows, reflections, contrasting light and darkness, and the interplay of color, B&W and mirrored surfaces. In many of the images, I become the subject myself, capturing my own reflection. For this series and creating images in general, sometimes the challenge is maintaining creative momentum. To address this, I've begun incorporating photo prompts into my daily routine, aimed to challenge myself and spark new ideas.

Member Spotlight: Dina Shirin