Today we’d like to introduce you to Celestin “Pablo” Kadjidja.
Hi Celestin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for the arts. The creative process, no matter what the discipline is something I’ve always had an interest in. On my 16th birthday, I bought my first camera; a Samsung WB100. I didn’t think much about it at the time because I just wanted something to shoot with it was a disappointing experience because everything I shot on it never came out how I wanted. Following my disappointment with DSLR’s I then decided to try film. At the time, I only knew one person who shot film and their pictures were amazing to me. I then bought my first film camera, a Pentax ME Super for $140 from an online reseller. Needless to say that the rest is history.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Get to where I am today took a lot. I was in college up until this past Fall 2020 when I finally graduated. The time I was spending in class and studying to get my degree was in the way of me dedicating my full time to my art. I never really liked college well school in general but I pushed myself to finish simply because I hate to leave things unfinished. Aside from that, getting exposure has been challenging. I would message a lot of people on social media apps to come and shoot with me to build up my portfolio but the responses were very limited. I had been shooting my friends over and over just to get some work out and stay active. There is also a huge influx of art being put out so my work would get lost in a sea of various photographers. I’m still working on making my mark and trying to differentiate myself from others. Even though I still am far from where I want to be, I’m glad to say that as of today everything seems to be finally falling in places.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in lifestyle film photography. My passion for photography came from me wanting to capture life moments as candid as they can be, which is why I like shooting out in the open more. It opens up the doors to unlimited possibilities whether as in studio shoots only limit you too so much. When I shoot I limit the poses to a few because I want to capture the most beautiful/natural moments. One thing I am really proud of and I think not a lot of people actually know this but I don’t edit my pictures. Some would say it defeats the purpose of being artistic but I think there is too much editing and filtering going on out there. I take pride in knowing that the shots I consider my bests came out just how I wanted them to without me having to do anything more to it. I think what would set me apart is the fact that everything I ever did and learned concerning photography was done solo. Aside from my friends and those people I’ve now shot, I never had anyone directly backing me or supporting me in my journey, I had to find the motivation and determination to keep going. My determination is what makes me special.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I think taking risks is something every artist or non-artist should try to do as much as possible. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be hard and uncomfortable but it broadens your perspective on certain things and opens the mind to new ideas and possible new opportunities. I do see myself as a risk taker, but don’t think I’ve taken that many major risks when it comes to my work. I’m still working on solidifying those things I’m good at and want to make sure I master them before I try and tackle new things that are foreign to me.
Pricing:
- Solo Session: One location, 10-15 shots, 30-45mn session, $130
- Solo Session 2: Two or more locations, 20-25 shots, 1h minimum, $170
- Group Session (2 or more): Up to three locations, 30-36 shots, 1h+, $200
Contact Info:
- Email: pablosfiles@yahoo.com
- Website: https://pablosfiles8.webnode.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pablosfiles/
Image Credits
Celestin “Pablo” Kadjidja Jr.
