Ever since I first saw the cover of Georgianna Lane’s book Paris in Bloom when it was first released back in 2017, I was instantly enchanted. It’s been on my bedside table ever since (along with my books on Chanel) and no matter how many times I scan through the pages I always feel inspired. Whether it’s the fact that there is so many pink blooms (my favorite color) or the fact that it’s set in the city I want to visit the most, Paris in Bloom remains one of the favorite books in my ever-growing collection.
In this interview, Georgianna shares about how she first became interested in photography, a behind-the-scenes look at Paris in Bloom, and gives words of advice for those hoping to pursue a career in photography.
What first piqued your interest in photography?
My parents were passionate amateur photographers and we always had cameras around the house. I began taking photos when I was about eight so photography has always been a part of my life.
How long did it take to capture all of the photos from Paris in Bloom?
I photographed all the images for the book over a period of three years.
Is there a particular place in Paris that inspires you the most?
The parks and gardens are very special places to me, in particular Jardin du Palais Royal and Jardin du Luxembourg. Paris is a busy and often noisy city but one can always find calm and peacefulness in the gardens.
Where are the best views in Paris?
That really depends on what you want to see. The views from Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triumph, and Notre Dame are all wonderful and very well known. But there are so many wonderful vistas in Paris. All along the Seine are classic views of Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, the bridges and the magnificent buildings such as the Grand Palais and the Musée D’Orsay.
When is the best month to visit Paris if you want to see it in full bloom?
The best month to visit is definitely in April for blossoms. Late May and June for roses. I cover all the details in the appendix of my book.
Which arrondissement has the best architecture?
I’m very fond of the architecture in the 16th and 17th arrondissements for classic apartment buildings. The Marais (3rd and 4th) has the best-preserved medieval architecture.
Do you have a favorite market where you like to pick up fresh flowers?
Paris has an abundance of fabulous markets. Since I stay in the 7th arrondissement, I have local florists that I use in that area and also go to the Marche Avenue, President Wilson. Again, my best picks are all listed in Paris in Bloom.
If you had to pick your favorite flower to photograph, what would it be?
It will always be roses. Although, of course, I enjoy photographing most flowers.
Do you have any tips on how to take better flower photographs?
Don’t photograph in harsh sunlight. Early morning, late afternoon or cloudy days are best to show the details in the flowers. Choose perfect specimens so you don’t have to retouch out flaws and defects.
What are your secrets to creating your beautiful floral flat lay photos?
I don’t really have secrets, I just make sure the lighting is good and that the layout is interesting. You have to ask yourself the reason you are creating the flat lay and make sure it answers that to the viewer. Play around. There really aren’t any rules!
What are some tips for photographers who want to see their photography published?
First of all, have a very cohesive body of work that can be presented to editors or publishers. An online portfolio is vital and a distinctive style to your work. Don’t try to copy someone else as it will be instantly noticeable. Understand the publications you are pitching to so you show work that they would be interested in. And you must understand digital publishing terms and practices so you provide the proper file types, sizes, and resolutions. Your image quality must be impeccable with proper exposure and other technical aspects.
Are there words of advice you would offer to photographers who want to turn their passion into a full-time career?
Become very well-trained and produce consistently excellent work. The competition is enormous and in order to stand out, you have to have exceptionally high-quality images. Don’t try to get by without doing the necessary training and practice.
You will be releasing two more books, New York in Bloom (March 12th, 2019) and London in Bloom (coming in 2020) What did you enjoy the most about taking the photographs for these two books?
Paris, New York, and London are such different cities. I know them all well and enjoy exploring each of them to discover the details that I feel integrate best with the floral images and communicate the individual character of each city. New York in Bloom is now complete and releases in March and I’ll be completing London in Bloom over the next few months.
Website: georgiannalane.com // Instagram: @georgiannalane and @aparisianmoment // Facebook: Georgianna Lane Photography
Keep an eye on your inboxes for a preview post about Georgianna’s latest book, New York in Bloom that releases 3/12!
All photos in this post were provided by Georgianna Lane and Abrams Image
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