Marika Cudak
“I believe my pictures have this twinkle in their eye because they are never truly perfect”
Intercru: Where are you from? Where do you live and work now?
Marika: I’m from Poland and I live and work in Warsaw.
How did you get started in photography?
My adventure with photography began a few years ago. I caught myself taking out my phone quite often to take pictures of everything that was around me. I mainly focused on architecture because I was very interested in shapes. Honestly, I thought that if I could achieve anything in photography, it would have to be architecture.
I was never interested in taking pictures of people at all :) But time changed everything- mainly when it turned out that photography was not a temporary fascination, but my greatest passion, which I have been faithfully devoted for the last few years.
Where do you find creative inspiration for your work?
Everywhere! I literally have eyes around my head. I am inspired by people, places, books, and works of other artists on various types of social networks.
What makes the perfect photo?
There is no one-word description. For me there are several important factors that create a perfect picture.
Personally, I think that a photo does not have to be technically good at all... at least not for me. I look more for people’s emotions. I care more about the light than the sharpness of the pic. I believe my pictures have this twinkle in their eye because they are never truly perfect.
What would your dream photoshoot be like?
Against all appearances, it is difficult for me to answer the question :)
I have a lot of inspiration in my head about photos that I would like to take. However, experience has shown me that sometimes it is not worth it to plan everything out. It is better to get carried away the moment, to act spontaneously, because it might be the dream photo session you have always wanted to have.
What is the best gift you’ve ever been given?
The camera my Dad gave to me. Not the object itself was the best gift, but my Dad’s faith in my passion and encouraging me to act and improve my workshop.
What’s your favorite season of the year?
Spring and summer. I love when it is warm, sunny, and bright. I definitely have more energy and willingness to act than in autumn or winter.
Who’s your favorite band or musician?
I like many bands and musicians, so it will be difficult for me to choose my favorites :)
As in life, in music I do not like limits so I bet on variety. However, I believe I have a rock soul and I also listen to rock very often: Led Zeppelin, Metallica, The Cult, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Dire Straits, and much more...
In 3 words how would you describe yourself?
Empathetic, sensitive, rebellious.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself and be independent.
Marika Cudak is a Polish photographer based out of Warsaw. To see more of her photography, you can check out her website marikacudak.pl or follow her work on Instagram @marikacudak.