The Guide to Life

Photography by Tinatin Jabanashvili

Mobile photographer Tinatin Jabanashvili opens up about showing sincerity in her work, comparing dance to photography, and not losing a positive attitude.

Tbilisi, Georgia

What is your history as a photographer?

Photography has become an integral part of my life for the fourth year in a row. Art has always been my guide to life. At first I danced, then I played in the theater, but under certain circumstances I completely lost my art. This was a big gap, so I started looking for alternative paths. Photography turned out to be something that filled the empty space in my life.

You were a dancer and an actress. How do these creative expressions influence your photography ? How does photography allow you express yourself differently than dancing or acting ?

Both dance and theater are areas of art that convey unspoken emotions. I convey unspoken words with my body as I dance. Photography also serves this very purpose, to show people your imagination, the way you see the world. Speak without words. Either way, your valuable community belongs to you.

Why do you choose to photograph with your phone over separate camera?

This is an easy way to achieve the desired result. It is often said that knowledge of the camera determines the quality of photography. This is partly a lie. It is not always necessary to have camera knowledge to show people what is happening around them. In many cases, the truth of the shot depends on the surprise. Mobile photography is built on this spontaneity.

How would you describe your style? What makes it unique and special?

Over time, I realized that people like my photos because they don't lie. Perhaps this is my calling card. My photography is based on sincerity. I do not deceive my viewers and offer a product that reflects reality. Street photography is reality, what is happening around us, and often not everyone can see it. Conceptual themes also reflect the daily routine. The technical side, how and in what form it will be transmitted, already depends on the photo.

Tell the story behind one of your images.

This photo is the most interesting for me. In complete chaos, in the stream of people, there was a colored bubble in the street. Torn and flattened, he was still laughing. To some extent, this is due to the stage of life when, during a difficult period, we still do not lose our positive attitude.

How have you grown as a photographer since your first started?

I grew up and improved a lot, and also changed my views on the process of photography and photography. Sometimes I look my old photos and noticed some mistakes. I think that now I will shot something in different ways. I understand this because I am getting good reviews.

Where is one place in the world you would want to photograph and why ?

There are many places in my country that have not been captured by my lens. After the pandemic is over, I will probably start my journey from now on. Also, I would love to film India and Africa.