Indie Oxford Interview: Photographer Kinga Lubowiecka

On the blog today we catch up with Kinga Lubowiecka, an amazingly creative local photographer who effortlessly manages to capture the character and essence of her subjects.

Tell me about your business & why you decided to become a photographer.

I would describe myself as a creative commercial photographer. I am passionate about lighting and producing stunning images, whether they be product shots, portraits, or events images. I run my own photography business called Bright Lens – www.brightlens.org, and work with individual clients and companies on projects either in the studio or on location. Nothing beats the feeling of creating great shots that clients love – it’s like climbing a high mountain and then enjoying the view!
For example one of my recent challenges included creating 26 studio portraits in 9 mins – that’s just over 20 seconds per person! Another project involved working with a local scarf designer, Katherine Maunder from Thread Tales, on a series of travel product photos. I photographed one of her scarves in various locations whilst driving across 8 US states – from Illinois to Virginia. So, I can certainly say that no day in the office is the same and each job requires plenty of problem solving!

How did you get into photography?

I have always been fascinated by the arts and the sciences, and I see photography as a link of these two areas. During my studies at The Ruskin School of Art, I ran the University’s Photographic Society. I was involved in organising numerous photography shoots and workshops, which allowed me to develop my interest and skills in the field.

Which photographers have inspired you most in your work?

Without hesitation I’d say that German photographer Thomas Demand has had the biggest impact on my approach to photography. I appreciate his meticulous attitude to image making. He creates paper models of well-­known places, such as the White House’s Oval Office, and subsequently lights and photographs them to look practically like the real thing. By studying his work I learnt that studio lighting can change and amplify the mood within an image, and that’s certainly worth considering when planning a shoot!

I consider the composition of every shot. It’s a little like painters deciding on what to include within their paintings and how to lead the viewer into the image.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal work lies within the genre of still-life photography and abstraction. I create carefully constructed images, often inspired by my love of sports, including tennis, running, skiing, cycling and volleyball. I apply this approach of ‘constructing images’ to my commercial work. I consider the composition of every shot. It’s a little like painters deciding on what to include within their paintings and how to lead the viewer into the image.

What are your plans for your business this year?

I am currently working on developing the branding of my company. My aim would be for Bright Lens to become a recognised name on the local photography scene, both in terms of studio based product and portrait photography, as well as more editorial style work.

How do you support & collaborate with independent businesses?

I believe that one of the best ways to support other businesses is through collaboration. In March I led a product photography workshop in partnership with Oxford Atelier. This was not only an opportunity to work with another local business, but also a chance to share some of my expertise with other local business owners. I am also looking forward to working on portrait projects with Independent Oxford.

Which are your favourite Oxford independents?

I have to admit that I am a very big coffee addict, so I think my answer will be a little one-­sided! I have a soft spot for The Missing Bean, since it opened when I was in my final year of university, and I recall walking up the High Street to grab a cup of coffee before lectures!

We’re really excited to work with Kinga on our new ‘Full Works’ membership package for 2018 which offers members 10 photographs of their business, themselves and their products to use on their website, social media and printed marketing.

Subscription to our membership ends next Monday 30th April, and our packages offer great return on your investment. If you would like to know more about our membership packages, please send us an email to enquiries@independentoxford.com.