How easy is it to be a young photographer in Croatia? TCN met with Viktor Đerek, a 19-year-old photographer from Split to find out more.
Hi Vikor! First, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in Split on March 8, 2000, and am currently living in Makarska. Last year I finished grammar school, language gymnasium – focused on modern languages (in Croatian, jezična gimnazija). I took a gap year and am currently working at a tourist agency.
When did you first realize you had a knack for photography?
I first got into photography when I was little, and around the age of 9, I became more serious. I used to travel a lot with my grandfather, and on those trips, I often photographed various monuments as well as nature and animals. Over time, I moved from an analog to digital photography which allowed me to experiment with colors, cadres, motives, and so on. In 2013, I produced my first short film. We shot in cities like Dubrovnik, Šibenik, Zadar, and Zagreb as well as in the National Parks of Krka and Plitvice Lakes. That was the first time I handled post-production and editing, as well as processing the recorded material which can be digitally manipulated (for example color, sharpness, and graininess).
What are some of your favorite destinations or subjects to photograph in Croatia?
Favorite destinations to shoot in Croatia? Anywhere near the sea because the sound of the sea puts my mind at ease.
What is your biggest accomplishment as a photographer in Croatia?
I always try to work harder and do things the best I possibly could.
Do you find it easy being a photographer in Croatia? What are some of your struggles or things you wish could improve for photographers here?
I don’t think that it is easy to be a successful photographer in Croatia. Of course, you can take photos and upload them to the internet, but to have something to say and to bring that message out there can be pretty hard sometimes. It is challenging to organize exhibitions in Croatia because all the galleries are occupied for years from now.
What are your goals and plans with photography in Croatia?
I have no exact plan for the future. I live in the moment, and I am very happy. Of course, there are a lot of projects I am working on, but we can talk more about that another time.
Are there any other projects you’re involved in outside of photography?
This summer, a new historical novel is expected by author Milko Peko called Grački boj. It was a great pleasure to cooperate with him in developing this project.
Capturing memories and moments keep me motivated. I want my photographs and writing to be evidence that I was here and I had something to say and share with others. My life was not just about work and play; there is something more.
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