Federico Guendel

“Life is not perfect, so I like to make the most of what’s available and have fun along the way.”

Intercru: Where are you from? Where do you live and work now?

Federico: I’m from San José, Costa Rica. I’m 100% Costa Rican as far as nationality goes but I’m the worst example of my countrymen. I traded the sunny chaotic tropics for Paris, France where I live with my wife.

How did you get started in photography? How long have you been taking photos?

I was super shy when I was a kid. In high school I grabbed my mom’s digital point and shoot as an excuse to talk to people. I’ve been interested in photography for about 15 years or so, and I’ve been working professionally for about 8 years.

What is the most important thing for taking the perfect photo?

Actually, embracing imperfection. I’ve been adding cheap contrast reducers, grease to the lenses and shooting at 1/50 to have the right amount of motion blur. It gives the photos a nice organic look. Also, focusing on the wrong thing on purpose. Shooting film on point and shoots. Life is not perfect, so I like to make the most of what’s available and have fun along the way.

How important is social media, especially Instagram, for your work?

It’s a challenge for me, but it’s incredibly necessary. I’m still an introvert which translates my social grinchyness to social media.

What do you do to find inspiration for your photography?

I look at other photographer’s work, people, music, movies, life traumas, the good dreams and the bad ones.

How would you describe your style of work?

A couple of years ago I was talking to a friend (a fashion photographer who went to a fashion photography program) about work, life, the program she went to and my style. We worded my style as voyeuristic, sexual, and longing- the kind that comes from loneliness.

Federico Guendel is a Paris-based digital and analog photographer. To see more of his photography, you can check out his website federicoguendel.com or follow his work on Instagram @fedeguendel.