We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Johannes Rillo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Johannes, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
As a toy photographer, I keep my creativity alive by constantly seeking new perspectives and storytelling techniques. I experiment with different lighting setups, angles, and props to bring toys to life in unique ways. Exploring various themes, from sci-fi adventures to dramatic scenes, keeps my work fresh and engaging. I also find inspiration in the world of cinema, comics, and art, drawing from their visual styles to create dynamic compositions. Connecting with other photographers and creatives allows me to exchange ideas and see my work from new angles. Most importantly, I maintain a sense of playfulness, always reminding myself that at the heart of it all, it’s about having fun and letting the imagination run wild.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a toy photographer, I have the joy of crafting intricate visual stories by breathing life into my action figures, transforming them into the protagonists of vivid, cinematic scenes. What truly excites me about toy photography is the boundless creativity it offers—there’s always a new universe to imagine, a new character to bring to life, and a new narrative to unfold.
What makes my work special is the way it blends creativity with a touch of magic and a sense of wonder. Each photograph is a carefully constructed piece of art, where every detail—from the positioning of the toys to the nuances of lighting and background—is thoughtfully designed to tell a compelling story. This unique form of storytelling invites viewers to rediscover familiar objects in a fresh, imaginative way, often evoking a sense of nostalgia and sparking their inner creativity.
Right now, I’m adding new themed series to my work, each with its own unique style and feel. I’m also excited about collaborating with fellow artists and brands, bringing diverse perspectives to my work and pushing the boundaries of what toy photography can achieve. Additionally, I’m in the process of launching work tutorials, aimed at inspiring others to explore the creative possibilities of toy photography. My ultimate goal is to ignite a sense of wonder in others, encouraging them to see the world through a more imaginative lens and to explore their own creative potential through this captivating art form.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I’d say the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey as a toy photographer are creativity, patience, and a keen eye for detail.
Creativity is crucial because it drives the imagination and helps in creating unique and engaging scenes. To develop this, I recommend exploring various art forms and finding inspiration in different sources—whether it’s movies or comics. Experimenting with new ideas and techniques also keeps the creative spark alive.
Patience is essential for capturing the perfect shot and refining your craft. Building this skill involves taking your time with each setup, adjusting elements until they’re just right, and not rushing the process. It’s also about being persistent and not getting discouraged by challenges or setbacks.
A keen eye for detail ensures that every element in the frame contributes to the overall story and visual appeal. To enhance this skill, practice paying close attention to small details in your work and learn to notice what works and what doesn’t. Reviewing your photos critically and seeking feedback from others can also help you improve.
For those starting out, my advice is to stay curious, be patient with yourself, and continuously strive to hone these skills. The journey in toy photography is as much about learning and growth as it is about capturing great images.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back and give myself some space to breathe and reset. I find that taking a break from my work helps clear my mind and allows me to return with a fresh perspective. Sometimes, I’ll immerse myself in a different creative activity, like drawing or watching a movie, to spark new ideas and alleviate stress.
I also find it helpful to break down my tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the workload feel less daunting and allows me to tackle each part one at a time. Organizing my workspace and creating a clear plan can also reduce feelings of overwhelm and help me focus on what needs to be done.
Another strategy is to seek inspiration from other photographers and creatives. Seeing their work and hearing their experiences can provide motivation and remind me why I love what I do. Finally, staying connected with a supportive community of fellow artists can offer encouragement and valuable feedback during challenging times.
Remember, it’s important to recognize that feeling overwhelmed is a natural part of the creative process. Taking these steps can help you navigate through it and come back with renewed energy and inspiration.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toyrelic
Image Credits
Johannes Rillo
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
