JONATHAN CHERRY: What got you started with photography?

REGINA LEMAIRE COSTA: I started watching stuff at an early age, from old movies to lesser old movies and shows and what not, it’s basically all I do. I love staying home with fictional characters. Not surprisingly, I go to film school. Filmmaking is all about teamwork so I can’t direct, write and work on visual techniques on my own. Photography is different. I’m a storyteller, a director and I build my image all by myself. It’s very personal and I need that.

JC: Any emerging artists inspiring you at the moment?

RLC: There is something striking about the amount of people online, mostly kids bursting with talent, creating images that really feel like things are changing. But I think film inspires me the most. Lately I’ve been drawn to 60s/70s colors, sort of unnatural tones. Kubrick had an awesome DP. Lynch’s Blue Velvet’s day shots are amazing and remind me of All that heaven allows by Douglas Sirk, whose day shots are just as beautiful. I saw The Virgin Suicides when I was 12 and never got over it… Ed Lachman’s work has a special place in my heart.

JC: Whats your current project all about?

RLC: I’m crazy about the past… I see something like a Mamas & the Papas documentary and those saturated yellow/orange tones from the 60s break my heart. I wish I was there and imagine life literally had a different tint. I’m a die hard Ingrid Bergman fan but regret I’ll never photograph her under crazy spotlights that shaped such brilliant black and whites.

Keeping track of the present by capturing everyday moments is an ongoing project, so maybe later I’ll feel as nostalgic about my own memories. I also want to explore more visual techniques. Manual work is more appealing than photo editing to me.

There’s also Waiting lessons, a project on expectation and not knowing what will come from it or what might already have. Basically it’s about photography.

JC: Where are you currently living and how is it shaping you?

RLC: Paris is my home, where I’ve lived most of my life. Sometimes I hate its guts but I couldn’t leave it. I love that the city is relentless, because I’m not. When you think you’ve seen it all, it surprises you. I’m quoting Woody Allen but this speaks to me “He thrived on the hustle bustle of the crowds and the traffic”. The entire Manhattan prologue is gold.

JC: Any big plans for 2012?

RLC: New York is always in my plans. But I hardly think it’s going to happen in 2012. For now I’m focusing on school and just trying to absorbe as much knowledge as I can. I want to build some real self-discipline. A solid sleep schedule would be nice too. Ideas will come along. 

JC: Favourite tree?

RLC: Cherry blossoms and that huge tree from My neighbour Totoro!