Interview
Daisy Seilern
Austria
Daisy Seilern, a photographer from Austria, opened her first studio for family and baby photography in 2012, successfully establishing her own business. Seeking new challenges in 2020, she specialized in photographing various artists, pushing her own limits and subsequently holding exhibitions and winning multiple photography competitions.
1 Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
My name is Daisy Seilern and I am photographer from Austria. In 1999, after some internships and workshops, I decided to take my passion to the next level and to become professional. I went to Florence, Italy and studied photography for 2 years. After this I worked as a journalist for BUNTE magazine at BURDA. Shortly after my first child was born, I started photographing newborns exclusively at a private clinic in Salzburg, Austria. In 2012, I opened my first studio for family and baby photography and successfully established my own business. After years of experience in this sector, I started looking for new challenges in 2020 and specialized in the photography of various artists with the goal of creating something special whilst challenging my own limits. It is thanks to this decision that I now hold exhibitions and win various photography competitions.
2 Where did you study photography?
I studied photography and video production at the Instituto del Arte Lorenzo di Medici in Florence, Italy. This was really a long time ago, 1999-2001. I spent hours in the dark room, developing films and pictures, everything was analogue by then.
3 Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
As a kid, I was used to stealing my father's camera (Olympus OM 10) to take random pictures of my ballerina shoes, Disneyland dollar notes,... and of my friends. I have travelled a lot as a teenager and it was always my passion to preserve moments for eternity.
4 What equipment do you use?
I use a Canon 5D Mark III and a Sony Alpha 9 Mark II 24-70mm / 2,4 24-105mm / 4 35mm / 1,4 85mm / 1,2 70-200 / 2,8 200-600 / 5,6-6,3
5 What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
Someone once said to me: "Your photos have the power to evoke emotions and transport viewers to another world. Your unique perspective and creativity shine through in every shot, making your work a source of endless inspiration." Someone else said: "Your bravery behind the lens captures not just moments, but the essence of human resilience and the beauty of the unexplored/unexpected."
6 What inspires your unique storytelling?
My unique storytelling in photography is inspired by the quest for beautiful light, adventurous exploration, pushing boundaries and capturing elegant movement - all while seeking aesthetic perfection.
7 What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
lightchaser adventurer perfectionist
8 Congratulations! As the winner of the MUSE Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Winning in three categories at the MUSE Photography Awards amidst over a great number submissions is an immense honor. This journey has been a symphony of emotions, a canvas of dreams painted with light and shadow. I am beyond grateful words for this extraordinary recognition.
9 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the MUSE Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The winning image 'Modern Mowgli' was the only picture that I have submitted and I am speechless, that this image has won platinum in three categories. The picture shows Rene Casselly doing basketball stunts with Kimba, one of his elephants. Rene has built an elderly home for retired circus animals and lives among his elephants. This picture is a poignant narrative of the enduring bond between humans and animals - it transcends mere imagery. It was such a great experience to work with them and to be able to encapsulate such profound storytelling in a single frame.
10 How has winning an award developed your career?
Winning awards has significantly enhance my career: - It increases the visibility and exposure for my work. - It provides validation and recognition of my talent and skills. - It gives me a great reputation within the photography community. - It can open doors to exhibitions, galleries and publications. - It inspires me, boosts my self-confidence to keep on going and it makes me proud and happy.
11 Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Jimmy Nelson, Luigi & Iango, Davvid Yarrow, Elena Shumilova and Megan Loeks!
12 What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
Dream big! Follow your dreams! You won't succeed unless you try. Fall down 7 times, stand up 8!
13 What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Passion fuels creativity, endurance sustains progress and striving for perfection drives excellence.
14 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
It is not about the destination, it is about the journey. You never stop learning because life never stops teaching
15 How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
Stay curious, seek inspiration from diverse sources and remain open-minded to constantly absorb new information and knowledge in photography.
