Interview with Gaspar Marquez from United States

I can say that I am a self-taught photographer, I read a lot of photography books, about all the technical stuff like how to develop your own film, printing, mounting and showcasing your work. But I took my basic classes in San Francisco CA. and major classes and was a teaching assistant for years at The School of The International Center of Photography and The School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Not really, but as a kid I used to take my mom's camera without her consent and would shoot just for fun and experimentation.

I'm such a lightweight photographer, I shoot with a canon 5D mark2, but I also shoot film with my Canon AE1 and a Polaroid. I have like 3 or 4 external flashes, that way I don't have to carry heavy power packs and strobe lights in the desert or hike a mountain with it. I also have like 2 2000 Norman power packs and strobes to shoot in the studio.

I guess, it's this time when I was still studying at SVA in NY and I showed my work to my instructor and he was looking at it and then he said; I've never seen anything like this, you don't really have to attend my class anymore, it's really up to you! You're all set! Just show up for finals!

The nude female body does! It's the source of my inspiration, I always felt the need to photograph it, I am convinced that I unconsciously wanted to capture the essence of the female beauty in its purest form.

Edgy, Contemporary, Erotic.

It's such an honor to be recognized for my work. It really helps me keep me motivated and inspired to keep shooting and getting my work to the next level.

It's something I can't explain but it sort of matters in confidence and determination in believing one's work is worth it! It's just something one feels and believes after years of studies, shooting, developing one's style, trial and error, inspiration, a burning desire and lots and lots of work! I chose MUSE Photography Awards because it's very contemporary with a very modern approach and global, for some reason I feel we are on the same page or something.

It definitely feels awesome, it definitely gives you more prestige, confidence, self-esteem and weight as an Artist and Professional. Not to mention it feels really good when your friends or people in your social circle mention that they've seen my awards online and stuff.

Man Ray.

Nick Knight.

Helmut Newton.

I was told to shoot what I love and keep doing it no matter what people say, just keep shooting and do your thing!

Definitely the same! shoot what you love and keep developing your style. Go out and see what's going on in galleries, museums, magazines, books, don't forget social media and anything that's online or anything in between and be updated with new technology and information.

Success is a state of mind! but I guess what you mean, fall in love with photography, love the whole process, it's all a cycle, find out what makes you tick, and do it again but this time push your limits!

I am in love with the process! I even love filling out these lines about this interview, because it's all part of it. It's part of my Photography, my life, my art. I also look for inspiration online, in galleries. Museums, movies, people, etc.

I want to add that being a Fine Art Nude Photographer is not something you go to school for and then you're done and ready to go! In my case it's something I believe I had it in me, it just took me some time to discover it, explore it, believe in it, develop my craft, polish it and share it to the world.

There's no path to success or something, you make your own path as you go forward! Don't be afraid, trust your gut, read the signs, and most importantly enjoy the journey, because that's your gift!