Ovidiu Selaru, a 41-year-old visual storyteller and award-winning photographer, has carved a niche for himself in the realm of street photography. Born and raised in northern Romania in a family of artists, Ovidiu’s creative journey was nurtured from a young age. His father’s artistic process, from drawing to painting, ignited a passion in him to become an artist as well. Now, after 16 years of living and working in London, Ovidiu channels his experiences and emotions into stunning photographic narratives.
With a background in machinery and a keen understanding of the geometry of the world, Ovidiu began his photography career fourteen years ago, focusing on capturing fleeting moments and the beauty of human interactions. His unique approach, which he describes as an “eternal snapshot,” allows him to capture the essence of his subjects, transforming their souls into timeless black-and-white memories.
Ovidiu believes that photography transcends mere technical skills; it is about instinct and presence. “I rely solely on instinct; I do not rationalize a movement or a motion,” he explains. “I let nature take its course, observe, and capture these decisive moments in time.” This philosophy not only shapes his work but also reflects his belief that heartfelt art cannot be disliked.
His impressive accolades include being a two-time winner of the British Photography Awards (2021-2023) and exhibiting at notable events like Xposure 2024 in Sharjah and the Sanremo Festival 2024. His work has graced the pages of prestigious magazines such as Vogue, National Geographic, and BW Magazine, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions through his lens.
Ovidiu Selaru’s photography is profoundly influenced by the world of cinema, where he finds inspiration in the emotional narratives that films convey. “My artwork is deeply inspired by movies and films, as they often evoke emotions and stories that resonate with me,” he shares. He admires how directors skillfully use light, composition, and movement to tell compelling stories, shaping much of his photographic approach.
However, Ovidiu identifies as a spontaneous artist, emphasizing the importance of capturing moments in real time. “I love capturing moments in real time, letting intuition and the flow of the environment guide my creative process,” he explains. For him, the beauty often lies in those unscripted, unplanned moments where everything comes together naturally.
His upbringing in a family of artists has also played a significant role in shaping his artistic expression. “Growing up in a family of artists, I was captivated by my father’s creative process,” Ovidiu recalls. His father’s talent and artistic spirit inspired him to dream of becoming an artist himself. Today, he pays homage to that legacy through his own work, stating, “My upbringing instilled in me a love for creating and capturing beauty, which I now express through photography.”
Ovidiu strives to capture the quintessence of his subjects’ inner beauty and nostalgia, believing that this pursuit reflects his own journey and experiences. Through his lens, he not only tells stories but also connects deeply with the emotions and memories that define the human experience.
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