Accentuating Light with Photographer Vigo Jansons
people • PHOTOGRAPHERS
As a London-based photographer and videographer specializing in architectural and interior design projects, with a fondness for artistic street photography, Vigo brings a unique perspective honed by his upbringing in Latvia, a picturesque country nestled along the Baltic Sea coast.
His journey into photography began in childhood, sparked by a deep-seated passion for art that led him to explore various creative avenues over the years. From graphic design to music and sound engineering, each pursuit contributed to his artistic evolution. Yet, it was photography that ultimately beckoned him back, reigniting his creative fervour.
With his camera in hand once more, he now has the privilege of capturing the essence of beauty and aesthetics, while also documenting remarkable architecture and design in a complementary and compelling manner.
WEBSITE: vigojansons.com INSTAGRAM: @vigojansons
Words: designeers
January 2024
designeers
How did you get started in interior design photography, and what inspired you to pursue this field?
vigo jansons
I’ve been interested in visual arts and photography since childhood. There is always something that draws me into creating and capturing specific moments. Some time ago, I came across a video on YouTube from a photography-related channel where one of the photographers I now look up to, Mike Kelley, and his friend critiqued architecture photography from members of their online community.
Some of the shots looked incredible, so graphical, and so thoughtful in their compositions and representation of the spaces and buildings that I immediately knew - this was something I needed to investigate further. I dove in and fell more in love with architecture and interior design.
From there on, the path couldn't be more specific. I immediately started learning everything I could, and within a year, I was well on my way to building a business photographing spaces in London and many times abroad since.
designeers
What is your most memorable photoshoot to date?
vigo jansons
It would have to be a recent one where I was commissioned to photograph Star Alliance airport lounges in the same week in two beautiful European cities, Paris and Amsterdam. You can imagine how exhilarated I was. The Paris CDG airport lounge stood out for me. It was elegantly designed by Gensler, one of the most prominent architecture designers in the world, and it was curated with beautiful French craftsmanship and style.
It was a long day of shooting. I like how organized the big companies are and how much planning goes before the shoot. Nothing is left to chance. We had some logistical challenges but after 14 hours and countless coffees and macaroons, we conquered.
In my opinion, the most memorable shoots are those with significant challenges. I like the excitement that comes with it and the satisfaction I feel when I know I showed up with a purpose to capture the best stills for my clients. I am falling in love with commercial interiors/architecture and looking forward to doing more of these kinds of projects.
designeers
How do you handle challenges like varying lighting conditions and tight spaces in interior photography?
vigo jansons
A great natural light environment is always the best. In some projects, that's all you need.
Light can be modified or added by blocking light or using flash to accentuate the light and the feel of the space, bringing out the depth, textures, and colors. Regarding tight spaces, the best approach is to focus on the design rather than the room itself, distilling the space to its most essential elements.
Every project has its challenges. You must take your time and find the best and most impactful way to present it based on the situation.
designeers
How do you collaborate with interior designers, architects, or clients to ensure you capture their vision accurately?
vigo jansons
Communication is key. You always want to listen to the client. A good project brief helps a lot, too.
As a photographer, you have to have a vision too. Some clients just want to leave you to it; others will be very collaborative and clearly understand what they want to achieve and how they want to present their work. Some like a more stylized look, and some like it to look more precise to reality. You have to listen and do your best to deliver.
“A great natural light environment is always the best. In some projects, that's all you need. Light can be modified or added by blocking light or using flash to accentuate the light and the feel of the space, bringing out the depth, textures, and colours.”
vigo jansons
designeers
What do you see as emerging trends or innovations in interior design photography?
vigo jansons
More and more clients are asking for short videos. A tastefully captured video with an editorial feel can add richness and depth to how well you can present a design project.
Regarding innovations, I am very excited about the rise of AI tools. They improve how efficiently we can accomplish things in post-production, leading to fewer headaches by the computer screen.
designeers
What do you do when you’re not working?
vigo jansons
When not working, I like to study and improve my skills. I believe in continuous growth and improvement; keeping myself up-to-date allows me to be the best at what I do and improve my craft as time passes.
Besides that, I try to workout regularly and create some variance in my physical activities. Also, I occasionally travel to disconnect and recharge fully.
designeers
One interior designer whose interior you wish you could shoot?
vigo jansons
It's a difficult question as there are so many great designers worldwide. However, if I had to choose, I would love to work with Zaha Hadid Architects. I am a big sci-fi fan, and I love modern design that feels organic and inspired by nature.
designeers
What are you inspired by?
vigo jansons
Successful people inspire me - anyone who does something well and loves what they do.
Great design inspires me, whether it's a built environment, a product, or even a logo that will stand the test of time.
Last but certainly not least - the beauty of nature.
designeers
What is your favourite hotel in the world?
vigo jansons
Aman Resorts is my favorite because of its vision of design and integration within the surroundings while respecting the local heritage.
A dream client, too. Fingers crossed.
