Tantalum: Thank you for your contribution to the latest issue of Tantalum. Can you tell us a little about the shoot you produced?
Silvin Barreda: I wanted to do an African theme for some months and more precisely "the Maasai,” so when I met with Zelig, I felt the series that is made for him.
Tantalum: When shooting you have the opportunity to see the visual outcome. What do you find to be the most difficult when bringing a team of artists together to create a cohesive look?
Silvin Barreda: I think the more complicated part is finding a good team. Once you have that, the work is easier. My team is amazing which is why I try to work as often as possible with the same team each time.
Tantalum: What or whom would you say influences your work?
Silvin Barreda: I really like the photographers Mario Testino and Greg Kadel. I always try to put some poetry in my photos.
Tantalum: When sending your work out for the world to see, what do you hope your element of the project says to the viewers?
Silvin Barreda: I think the it’s more important that people recognize my style and the quality of my work.
Tantalum: What was the best piece of advice you were given when starting out?
Silvin Barreda: To have fun when I do a shoot, and this remains a priority above all--a passion.
Tantalum: Who took the time to teach you the art early in your career? And what was the most valuable lesson they taught you?
Silvin Barreda: I started alone, and then photographers like Jack Waterlot and Anthony Meyer given me advice.
Tantalum: As an editorial artist, what do you feel is one of the biggest mistakes beginners tend to make?
Silvin Barreda: A common mistake beginners make is to do too much. Sometimes, simplicity is a better thing.
Tantalum: What are your words to live by?
Silvin Barreda: Live life passionately.
Tantalum: Where did you get your start in editorial work? How hard or easy was it for you to build your career?
Silvin Barreda: My first editorial was for the magazine Lash, and I continue today to work for them.
Tantalum: How would you describe your artistic style?
Silvin Barreda: Contrasting and poetic.
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