MARIEKE RIZVI | THE PHOTOGRAPHER BEHIND ESSENTIAL CAMPAIGN
By now, if it isn't already evident, everything about vintage inspires us. From minimalistic aesthetics, to 80's and 90's fashion and film photography, we love it all. For that reason we wanted our first swimwear campaign to be shot on film. Marieke Rizvi caught our eye some months ago, when we found her work on Instagram. She's a Caribbean & Dutch photographer based in Bali and does both; film and digital photography. Marieke's work is characterized by buttery smooth skin tones and bright colours.
Marieke recently visited a beautiful villa Mercii in Bali with model Madeleline, where they shot our debut Essential collection. A modern and minimalistic vibe with a vintage twist is what we fell in love with at the photoshoot. We asked Marieke if she would be willing to share some of her insights about photography. Here is what she had to say.
Enjoy!
When did you realize you wanted to be a photographer?
I've always been fascinated by the concept of 'capturing the moment'. My father would be holding a camera in one hand at all times. I grew up with tons of photo albums filled with good memories.
But it is only a few years ago that I thought of learning photography in depth. My main interests lay in fashion and portrait photography.
What does photography mean to you?
Photography is an art, a dance, a connection, a love affair between lights and shadows, between the sun and the skin, the elements all come together. It’s a playful date of endless opportunities...
What inspires you as a photographer?
The people I photograph, their faces, their smiles and their moods... everything that is human about the person I shoot with. We all have this intense desire to connect... and spending these precious moments with someone is just magic.
What is your favourite style of shooting?
I love shooting film. It is delicate yet raw. The result just doesn't lie. It's an instant moment I have to capture and then it is gone. You can't redo the shot or edit it afterwards. That's what so magic about it. In this world of social media where most of what you see is fake or heavily edited, my heart longs for the real, pure faces of humans. Now more than ever, it is important to show our true self and love one another just the way we are. What does it mean to be perfect anyway? There is no such thing...
Where was your most memorable shoot location?
White sand beaches are my all time favorites but I still have so many locations around the world I'd like to go to. Light falls differently in each moment and place so that would be such an adventure to explore this with my camera in hand.
What drives your passion in photography?
Creating beautiful shots for brand owners that appreciate my style. There is nothing more rewarding then receiving their first reaction on the photos. ♡
What is your favourite part about being a photographer?
Working as a solo female entrepreneur just gives me wings and makes me feel free. I am in control of my busy schedule and how I want to spend my free time. A huge win is also expressing my creativity and earning a living with my passion.
What is your advice for someone who wants to do what you do?
If you have a passion in life, go for it! Pick up that camera and practice until you find your own style. There is no such thing as waiting for something to be perfect.
You can view Marieke's website or Instagram for more of her beautiful work.
Model: Madeleine
Location: Villa Mercii