The Darkrooms of... Röggi

The Dark Rooms of... is an interview series in which a photographer talks about his or her darkrooms, the digital and the mental, or technical and inspirational. What makes you click?

Feb 20, 2024

In this edition of The Dark Rooms of… we focus on Icelandic photographer Röggi

By the way, if you haven’t read the previous 9 interviews, you can find them in the archive.

Here we go.

Who are you?

In the quiet streets of Reykjavík, I've been capturing moments since I was a kid, starting with a disposable camera and moving up to digital at 12. Born in '87, I'm just a regular guy who finds joy in photography, philosophy, and the little things in life. There's something magical about freezing everyday moments in time, seeing the beauty in the ordinary, and that's what keeps me clicking away behind the lens.

Do you think technique is important?

Yes, technique is important in photography. It helps us take better pictures and express our ideas more clearly. It's like learning the rules of a game before you can play it well. But remember, rules are meant to be broken sometimes, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your photos too! (I usually do!)

What equipment do you use?

I primarily use the Canon RP with the RF24-105mm and 35mm, as well as the compact M50 and the stylish Leica C. I have a few more in my collection, but this is enough for now!

And what software?

Adobe Lightroom

How do you edit your photos?

I’m not really sure how to answer this question. But I believe in enhancing the natural beauty of the image while also maintaining its authenticity. I adjust things like exposure, contrast, colors, and sharpness to bring out the best in each photo while staying true to the original scene and what I had in mind in the first place – because I like to see the photo before I snap.
Additionally, I use B&W when it complements the mood or message I want to convey in the photograph. Even in landscape and specially in portrait. Overall, my editing process is about enhancing the felling I’m trying to make people feel.

Inspirational

Where lies your heart?

I see myself as an artist. My heart lies in capturing moments that tell a story and evoke a feeling. I'm a versatile photographer, comfortable in various genres like portraits, landscapes, and street photography. Whether it's capturing emotions in a portrait or the beauty of nature, I aim to create images that resonate with people and evoke a connection and feelings.

Do you have your own style or signature?

I’m not really sure. I try finding the beauty in simplicity. I focus on capturing genuine moments with a natural, honest feel. Whether it's through the composition, lighting, or editing, I aim to create images that are timeless and of course cool. Also photographing something that seems out of place can be a fascinating exploration of contrasts and unexpected moments.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I find inspiration everywhere I look. Living in Iceland, surrounded by its stunning landscapes, fuels my creativity. Walking through the streets, I'm intrigued by the stories of people and the unexpected moments that catch my eye. Whether it's the beauty of nature or the quirks of everyday life, I'm drawn to capturing what makes each moment unique.
I also get inspiration from the people I love – my family and friends.

Does your project start with an idea or with a loose image?

It depends. Sometimes I have a clear idea for a photo, other times I snap a quick moment I see, and occasionally I'll find something fun while editing later. It's all about staying flexible and open to whatever sparks my creativity in the moment.

When is your project finished?

That's a good question! Usually, I consider a project finished when I share it online or print it for sale. But honestly, I don't dwell on it too much or think deeply about such stuff.

During your project, do you already know how it ends?

Sometimes I have an idea, but other times, editing a photo can turn it into something totally unexpected.

What is your favorite photo and why?

I don't have a favorite photo, but lately, I've been really into black and white landscapes. They just seem to catch my eye more these days.

Future

What do you want to achieve

I don't have any grand ambitions, just to keep doing photography and sharing more prints. It's what I love to do, so I'm happy as long as I can keep at it.

What do you want to know from others? You may ask one photographer one question. What would that be?

When you take photos, what feelings or emotions do you want people to feel?

Where can we see more

On Instagram roggi_iceland

That’s it for this newsletter

Do you like this interview? Do you want to see more? Send my some suggestions for photographers you like to see interviewed at Darkrooms. Of course you can suggest yourself if you have an interesting story to tell.

Till next time,

Like these interviews? Lucky you, there’s 9 more of them in the archive.

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