Questions for Ursula Reinke

When did you start your photography?

Photography was already a part of my design studies in Düsseldorf, Germany. Creative techniques, studio and b&w photography and working in the darkroom were all part of my training. During my many years as a graphic designer for an American company, I captured many events on film with my analog camera. Personally, I took pictures mostly while traveling, but also had the opportunity to use the darkroom at ZAKK in Düsseldorf.

For over 10 years I have been extremely involved with digital photography and image processing.

Is photography your hobby or your profession?

Photography is more than a hobby for me – it’s a passion I have with artistic aspirations.

Tell us about the image you entered into the competition. Is there a story behind it?

The media harbor in Düsseldorf offers numerous examples of interesting modern architecture. That’s where this photo was taken. I found the graphic red pattern of the building’s façade very attractive. To emphasize the two-dimensional effect, I retouched some elements in the windows and divided the facade with a blue line. You can see light reflections only in one window, which directs the observer’s view. The color of the no-stopping sign matched it perfectly.

Who and/or what inspires you most?

Digital photography and image editing opened up new opportunities of creative expression for me. I am fascinated with modern architectural photography. The depiction of reality is less important to me than the abstraction of form and structure, as well as light. I am interested in the surfaces, lines and the unique aspects of buildings. Using digital editing, I try to create a vision of a modern urban scene, utilizing unusual colors or eliminating color all together, reducing the image to black and white, emphasizing a sense of alienation.

What’s your photographic focus?

I enjoy travel photography and shooting ballet or jazz concerts in addition to architectural photography.

What’s your next photo project, your next challenge?

My next project is an exhibition called “Intentionally” at the Judith Dielämmer gallery in Grevenbroich, Germany. From February 24 to March 26, eight photographers are going to present their work. We are very pleased that Wolfgang Zurborn will open the exhibition with a speech at the vernissage.

Do you include color management in your photographic workflow?

Vibrant colors are an integral part of my photographic work. Choosing the right color profile for publishing on websites or for printing is crucial. In my workflow, an accurately color calibrated monitor is essential to getting the results I want.

What do you do with your photos? Do you print them, post them on your social media accounts or your website or do they simply stay on your hard drive?

I use my images in photo books, as acrylic prints on walls, include them on my own website, post them on 1x.com (a curated online photography platform) and Instagram, share images with other photographer friends and enter contests, I do all of that. Feedback is important to keep developing my skills.

What’s your photographic goal? What do you dream of?

To develop my own style, to be able to travel a lot. I dream of a very lightweight camera that offers the quality of a full-frame camera. However, I have not been able to master mirrorless cameras just yet!