Never Mind
Interview with Photographer, Nasari Vega
Nasari is a documentary photographer with a concentration in jazz music, her work focuses on self-expression and utilizes photography as a tool to comment on society and to positively impact the world. Her core values as an artist are, collaboration, communication, and creativity. You can view more of her work on her website at: flicksbynasari.com/portfolio, and instagram, @flicksbynasari
When did you first pick up photography?
For as long as I can remember, I always thought music was going to be my profession. I devoted hours playing piano and attempting to learn the blues. However, when my musical ambitions failed me I decided to pick up photography. At first, I used it as a way to capture
my inner feelings within my personal struggles. I found comfort in taking photographs. I started taking yearbook pictures for school recitals and music concerts late freshman year of high school, which later turned into a greater purpose. Overtime, photography became
my instrument and I decided to turn it into a career my junior year.
Who are some of your photography inspirations at the moment?
Currently, I’ve been obsessed with the great Gordon Parks. His documentary style is very raw and intimate. In addition to his style, his purpose to advocate through his images inspires me. He was a great storyteller and always incorporated his love for various differentart forms into one. Francis Wolff has also recently been a great inspiration. He captured impeccable jazz icons such as John Coltrane and Miles Davis. Observing his work always motivates me to go out there and capture. I’ve also been splurging on photography books....that’s always important.
How did you discover your love for specifically documentary photography?
I’ve always been very observant and reserved. Coming from a very diverse background, I’ve always been traveling the world. Thus, in unfamiliar places I would always watch the people around me and I would notice what would usually go unnoticed. With every blink I took, I would capture a memory. I guess you could say I had a photographic memory, but at the time I didn’t really know that. So, when I started taking photos I noticed a very distinctive style to my work. I would capture the world how I saw it, not how I wanted others to see it. Documentary photography is such a beautiful form of art because it allows us to capture the times. Years from now, we get to look back on those photographs and see the world for how it really was. I love life. I guess that’s why I love capturing it so much. I want others to find beauty in their raw moments.
What has been one of your favorite experiences photographing jazz musicians?
By far my favorite experience is whenever I have the opportunity to photograph Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz A band. As their band photographer, I get to capture their most intimate moments as a band, as well as a family. Their community allowed me to connect with a larger community of musicians. I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing without their support. Their dedication and passion has motivated me to continue pursuing my craft. There’s never a dull moment when I’m photographing Jazz music.
For portraits, how do you make people feel comfortable behind the camera?
It always takes people a few minutes to adjust but that’s normal! I always kindly encourage them and respond with compliments. When they hear “you’re beautiful,” it always brings a smile to their face which adds to the authenticity of the portrait. It’s also important to get to know your client prior to the shoot. Usually when I’m setting up my gear or if there’s a short walk to a location, I ask them about their day, where they're from, or where they got their shoes from! Creating banter and connection with a client helps them break from their shell a
little bit.
What’s your current favorite photography gear?
I absolutely love my SONY 11mm f/1.8 wide angle lens. I can’t go anywhere without it. It adds a feel to the images. Though you have to get close to a subject to get a photo, to the viewer the image feels like they’re there.
Lastly, If you could communicate one message with your photography what would that message be?
Unity. I take photographs to bring people together. When people look at my photographs, I want them to see things like they didn’t before. I want to communicate what goes unnoticed.