Lisa Marie Backmann

“Honestly, I’m not very interested in celebrities…I get inspired a lot by lesser known photographers and the people around me.”

Intercru: Where are you from?

Hi, my name is Lisa. I’m 28 years old and I was born and raised in a small town in the west of Germany.

Where do you live and work now?

I started studying communication design in Düsseldorf in 2012. I have lived and worked there since then.

Right now, I’m working as a freelance photographer, filmmaker, and graphic designer. A few years ago I discovered my passion for film photography and fell deeply in love.

What’s your favorite food?

Difficult to name just one favorite. I just love food.

I’m really into Asian food. Right now, I’m obsessed with ramen soup. I eat super healthy most of the time and basically enjoy anything made from vegetables and other fresh ingredients.

What is the best gift you’ve ever been given?

My grandfather’s old Rolleiflex camera. He passed away some years ago, but every time I’m shooting with it I can feel him near me.

If you could travel back in time, when and where would you go?

When I was younger, I often wanted to travel back in time, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how important it is to live in the moment.

I think you have to focus on what’s happening in front of you to really enjoy life. In addition, I don’t think that being a woman at any time during the past centuries was that great to be honest.

Who knows you the best?

Myself. Sometimes I can be kind of a loner which is why I enjoy spending time with myself. I’m a thoughtful person and I’m always trying to reflect on myself and the things around me.

I guess I’m the only person who fully knows who I am.

In 3 words how would you describe yourself?

Stubborn, empathic, mindful

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t compare yourself and your work to others. Just focus on what you want and what you like and never stop working on it.

Who would play you in a Hollywood movie about your life?

I can’t tell. I would say any actress who can convey the mood that is set in movies like Lost in Translation, Her, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Who’s your favorite band or musician?

Another tough one. It really depends on the mood I’m in. I’m definitely not able to name only one.

Currently some of my favorites are Alt-J, Khruangbin, Tame Impala, Giant Rooks, The Smiths, and Joy Division.

What was your first job?

Besides some projects I had back in University, my first job in the creative field was taking photos at an event. It was simple and the perfect start for me to gain experience and confidence.

If you could meet any celebrity in the world, who would it be?

That’s a tough question. Honestly, I’m not very interested in celebrities. In the field of photography I get inspired a lot by lesser known photographers and the people around me.