Interview with Rie Inoue | New York Photography Awards Winner

Rie Inoue | New York Photography Awards

Rie Inoue

A defining moment in Rie Inoue’s journey into photography came at age 14 when a Hockney exhibition, seen alongside her art teacher, ignited her passion for the medium. Entirely self-taught, she now pursues photography with an unstoppable drive, aiming to make a lasting impact through her images.

1Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?

Hello! I'm Rie Inoue. How did I get into photography? It was a Hockney photo exhibition that I saw with my art teacher when I was a 14-year-old girl.

2Where did you study photography?

I self-studied photography.

3Do you remember your first shot? What was it?

It was taking photos of my friends when I was 15!

4What equipment do you use?

I use the Cannon R6 mark2 currently.

5What do you hope to achieve?

To take over the world with my photographs!

6What compliment inspired/touched you the most?

I’m not interested in compliments from others. I feel satisfied only when I’m able to take the photo that I am satisfied with.

7What inspires your unique storytelling?

Love!

8Congratulations! As the winner of the New York Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?

Thank you! (It means) I'm getting closer to taking over the world with my photographs (hahaha).

9Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the New York Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

It's my first time creating photographic pieces. Thank you, New York Photography Awards! Thank you for allowing me to express myself.

10Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.

I prefer to watch movies rather than to see the work of other photographers. I especially like French films. I was influenced by the films of directors such as Leos Calax, Jean-Jacques Benex, and Jean-Jacques Annaud.

11What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

Only love!

12How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?

I only do what I want to do.

13Anything else you would like to add to the interview?

I'd like to say thank you to my daughters and my dear friend Machiko! Many thanks to friends who helped as well!

Winning Entry

SALOME | New York Photography Awards

I expressed my self-satisfied love by comparing it to Salome. My love is a sad and ridiculous love. But I love him with all my heart and earnestness... (read more here)

Rie Inoue

Read the interview about Breaking the Rules: A Vision Beyond Photography by Emmanuel Gimeno here.

Through the Eyes of Rie Inoue | A Passion for Storytelling

Rie Inoue

Winning Entry

Rie Inoue

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