One shot interview with Polly Rusyn 

What made you push the shutter button to capture this image?

I was at a very crowded festival (the annual Horse Fair in Jerez de la Frontera - “Feria del Caballo”), and had been trying to figure out how to make pictures without hoards of people and horses in the background. I decided to try and block out the clutter by using a horse! And managed to capture two men on a horse and cart going by behind, without their horse and cart being visible. The gesture of one and the top hat of the other were why I hit the shutter. And I can’t quite figure out if the driver is looking at me or just in my direction…

Is this image part of a wider project, if so what is the projects focus?

Yes this image is part of a project, although I didn’t set out to shoot one - it just became one! I’m drawn to all things Andalusian, and have photographed at a couple of the region’s traditional festivals. And I cannot wait to return to photograph more.

Why is this image special to you?

There are very very few images that I have shot where I have felt pleased with myself, and this is one of a handful! It serves not only as a fond memory but also as a picture I’m proud of, plus it still makes me smile. And I was thrilled to bits that it formed part of the Women Street Photographer’s Exhibition at the Brussels Street Photography Festival.

Is there any photography books that inspired you to capture this image?

Not consciously. I do think we absorb inspiration from everywhere and everyone though! 

What camera are you currently using?

Fujifilm X100V

Please tell us about yourself

I am a professional photographer based in London, and an Official Fujifilm X-Photographer. My client work is mainly personal brand photography, and I also run street photography workshops in London at Street Club, and in Europe through my company The Photo Weekender. My work has been shown in several international group exhibitions, published in Digital Photographer magazine, and I recently presented at the National Geographic Traveller Masterclasses.

Links to your social media and website

pollyrusyn.com

thephotoweekender.com

https://www.instagram.com/pollyrusyn/

https://www.instagram.com/thephotoweekender/