Sanïa Spiri | Japan
Sanïa Spiri is a documentary photographer from Macedonia. She has lived in the UAE and the Caribbean, and now calls Japan home. She captures the raw and authentic moments of everyday life.
How did you first get into photography?
When I was probably around 7 or 8 years old, my parents bought me my first point-and-shoot camera for my birthday and I carried it everywhere with me. I shot everything interesting that my eye caught, and I remember I would stay late at night browsing through the photos I took and studying the details in them. Later on when I got my first job I bought a second-hand Canon 500D DSLR, and from there I started reading a lot about the technical aspects of the camera.
What subjects or themes do you most enjoy photographing and why?
Currently, I am very much drawn into documentary photography — whether that’s capturing every day moments of our family and friends, or on the streets. I believe in the beauty of everyday life, and raw emotions from people are the ones that inspire me the most.
Can you share a memorable project or a photo series you’ve worked on?
A few months ago I did a photography project for a very close friend of mine here in Japan. I was always drawn to the relationship between her and her dog Benji, and I always wanted to capture that. So when I suggested a photo project to her she immediately agreed.
I loved every moment of capturing their love for each other and the time they spent together. I made sure that I documented their every day life in the most authentic way possible. I will always be grateful for the opportunity she gave me.
What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?
Last November one of my best friends asked me if I can photograph their son’s Shichi-Go-San ceremony. It was such an honour to be part of their family's special day.
They loved the pictures and the emotions conveyed through them. That was my first official photoshoot for a friend and I think I will never forget that day.
How do you stay creative?
I take walks everyday and I take my camera with me. Whether that’s a quick walk to Family Mart or to pick up my daughter from the bus stop, I always have my camera.
Taking my camera on my walks helps to boost my creativity, especially on a days where I feel like staying in bed and doing nothing. I always remind myself that outside there are far more interesting subjects to photograph than at home.
What message do you hope to convey through your photography to other women?
I recently read the book “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert, and she mentions in the book something along the lines of: “It might have been done before, but it hasn’t been done by you,” and I could not agree more with this. Never doubt yourself.
