Edited by Odeta Catana, Photo Editor
Can you present yourself in a few words?
My name is Amanda Cots and I live in Valencia (Spain).I am studying mass media at University of Valencia.
How did you start taking pictures?
As a student of mass media, I am always been interested in photography, but, last Summer, I bought and old analog camera and I fell in love of it. Since then, I started taking photos more often.
Where does your inspiration comes from?
My inspiration comes from everywhere: a walk on the beach, a beautiful sunlight or any film of Godard or Bertolucci. But specially, I am very influenced by Nan Goldin or Ryan McGinley. They inspired me to make photographs of my own friends and my experiences.
In a portrait, what is important for you?
Well, I don´t like surreal portraits but, at the same time, my pictures are not documentaries. I put people in certain situations in order to create an effect. Moreover, I feel attracted to natural and wild landscapes.
What kind of relationship do you have with your subject when you shoot?
My subjects are usually friends or myself, so i have a relationship based on intimacy. But, if I could shoot unknown people, I am not interested in typically beautiful. I am looking for strange people, with magnetism and personality.
Do you think it’s important to follow a school to learn how to shoot?
No really, I think there are talented people who have not studied any degree or course.
What’s the photo you want to take and you never did?
I would like to take photos of naked people, but my friends are so shy for it.
What’s your photo-mission?
I don´t have a mission, I make photos of situations that I have imagined before.
