Espe Perelló

“The Mediterranean is part of me, it is my lifestyle”

Intercru: Where are you from?

Espe: I was born in Mallorca in a village at the southeast of the island. I spent many summers in the countryside at my grandparents’ house surrounded by nature and animals. I loved that feeling of freedom of that particular environment.

Where do you live and work now?

I still live on the island, though now I live in a small village at the steps of Serra de Tramuntana. I am in love with this island and I know it perfectly, every corner of it, each of its traditions...

The island inspires me and offers me incredible landscapes which have made what was originally a hobby like photography into my current job.

How did you get started in photography? Are you self-taught?

To be honest, I do not remember the specific moment where I became interested in photography. Since I was little I used to “play” with my parents’ cameras at home. I didn’t really know what I was doing but I felt the need to take pictures. I loved the “surprise” effect of film cameras.

When I was studying fashion design I did a class on an introduction to photography. I learned some basic skills but I have never really studied photography formally. I have learned on my own by reading a lot and taking many pictures. I think that is the best way to learn, to find your own mistakes and see how you can improve them. I’ve always thought that if there’s a will there’s a way.

Do you prefer shooting digital or analog?

Both formats are present in my work, however I am in love with analog photography. When I put the film into my camera I am already anxious about the results. I love that uncertainty of not knowing what will come out- the colours, the light... When I take pictures in analog I feel more free and creative just in the right moment I am about to shoot.

Shooting in digital is totally different. I like to create the story beforehand and have a clear idea of what I want to capture. I do not like to shoot a thousand pictures. I think about each scene of the shooting and how I will obtain the results I am looking for that are up to my standards. I am very detail oriented so I can be very picky.

Where do you find creative inspiration for your work?

It is difficult to put it into words. But beauty in all its forms inspires me. Someone’s sensitivity, a kind gesture, the sound of the sea, a summer’s sunset, nature’s colours... Everything that has a positive feeling of peace and calm.

I also follow many social media accounts that inspire me- photographers, art, lifestyle...

What do you love most about the Mediterranean aesthetic and vibe?

The Mediterranean is part of me, it is my lifestyle. I am in love with its colours, landscapes, culture, its laid-back atmosphere and its wonderful people. I think that people who live close to the Mediterranean have a happier vibe.

What would your dream photoshoot be like?

I couldn’t choose just one. As a lover of the Mediterranean and its aesthetic I would love to see all its coast. From the Costa Brava, south of France, Italy, Croatia, to the Greek islands and I would take photographs of its people and the essence of each place.

Where is your favorite place to go and take pictures?

Any place that is close to the sea or surrounded by nature.

What makes the perfect photo?

To me the perfect picture is the one that captures an emotion, a feeling, one that takes you to a moment and allows you to experience it as if you were there, in that exact moment. That is the perfect photo.

What really makes you happy?

I think happiness can be found in small things, loving yourself and feeling good about it. To me that is the most important and what makes me happy. That, and being surrounded by my loved ones.