Sandra Legay
@happinessisle
Photographer based in France
As a novice, I am still exploring the ins and outs of photography. Traveling and exploring is not new to me though, and my husband practices photography more seriously. Those are the reasons that I began picking up the camera much more as well, especially while traveling.
On my last trip, I had the chance to go to the Dolomites out of season. I found the landscapes wild, had the chance to see wildlife, and meet friendly locals. What I liked the most was the contrast between the rocky mountains and the well-mown grass. My favorites are the photos I took of Alpi Di Suisi, for sunrise, and I was also astonished by Lago di Carezza and how I was able to capture the place despite the brutal light.
Weather conditions and photography
I had left at the end of the morning and the light was really strong. I waited for a light cloud cover to be able to get a decent photo. The weather is crucial to take a good landscape photo, and besides, you have to know how to scout for places, have an overview of the area and be conscious about how the light will influence it. Finally, there is a dose of patience needed to get the final shot. I may be a novice, but you learn these things quite quickly once you get out there!
Listening to others
A photo to others may seem simple, not conveying all the work that’s been invested to take that photograph. Photography is an art and it is visible to most of us, and open for interpretation. Art is unique not only because of the creation – as well because of the interpretation.
As a photographer, I think it is important to listen to others because everyone can give good advice, whether they are experts in your field or not. And even if the advice isn’t applicable at that very moment or you don’t agree, it may serve for another time. The experience and interpretation of others enrich your own and allow you to broaden your understanding.
To mention a few expert creators I have been learning from, first of all, there is Steffen Fossbakk. My favorite aspect of his images is the composition and the landscapes. There is something magical in these photos. Then, there is Daniel Weissenhorn. I love the way he catches the light and his aerial shots are crazy. In wildlife photography, I admire Jeremie Villet. He has a very sweet way of taking these photos, the frame is always incredible.
I did some projects to promote regions or events in some towns in France with other photographers. It was interesting to share these moments and learned a lot.
"Meeting and discussing with regional actors allowed me to become an ambassador of the French Alps."
There are several subjects that affect me, such as deforestation or the impressive melting of sea ice. I do not foresee any plan in the immediate future but I will see according to the opportunities if this project can materialize. For now, I am happy shooting in France and while traveling and appreciate every opportunity to co-create, especially when it’s in the mountains.
Love for the mountains
I have a great preference for the mountains, simply because I live in a country that allows me to go there regularly. Certain regions are tireless, in particular the regional park of Vercors and all of Haute-Savoie. These are wild places with a very beautiful biodiversity. My all-time favorite photo is a sunset shot taken in Haute Savoie on a very cold evening. The sky exploded in color as if it was giving us its greatest gift. It’s the kind of moment that I love to live.
When I take a photo, I do it mainly to create memories and try to give the photographs the appearance of how I saw them while shooting. I edit my photos via Lightroom and I try to respect certain tones according to the seasons. I choose to leave at certain times of the day, which helps a lot in gaining the result I want since, in the end, I find myself with consistency in the lights. I can say that the present moment is what inspires me. What I see and live. And I try to translate that to my images.
There are quite a few fields that I haven’t touched yet, such as astrophotography and portraiture, but that doesn’t mean that I’m not interested. I am sure that through other areas, I will be able to develop other skills and I can’t wait for what is ahead of me. When it comes to nature and landscape photography, I am looking forward to going back to Scandinavia.
"Every moment in the outdoors is gratifying and fulfilling, but seeing the northern lights in Lapland has enchanted me. I will go back soon for sure, and if there is a professional opportunity to combine it with, that would be a dream come true!"
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