I was born in Paris of a french father and Sri Lankan mother. I speak English and French.
I entered IDA-CREAR (Paris, from 1987 to 1989) to study Photography and History of Art. I then worked in a photo studio, first as an assistant then as a photographer. My main assignments at that time were in advertising.
Those were the days… Shooting with a Sinar view camera with 4"x5" film, a Kodak colour/grey scale and Balcar lightings. I would eventually lock myself for hours in the dark room, but only for the Black&white prints.
Today, I am based in Sri Lanka and natural light is my-only-lighting-gear as for the editing, my laptop is far more minimalistic than my old faithful dark room. Travelling light is comfortable!
Architecture photography -
The lines, the shapes, the contrasts and textures characterise an intriguing field. The interaction between space and light is always appealing to explore.
I have been lucky to photograph some amazing projects. To ease the reading, I created a separate page for the interiors & ambiances photography.
Fine Art prints - Online sale of limited edition photographs
(Sept. 2017) Happy to say that orders for signed prints can now be placed through the website. I've put together a collection of 3 series of black & white photographs, signed and printed in 25 x 25cm that can be purchased here.
My personal research photography work -
My photographic field is mainly in Sri Lanka where I explore the luxurious landscapes through my road trips.
I love driving which allows me to freely and spontaneously go anywhere.
Through my travels, I'm drawn to big cities where I like to explore the past within the present in Architecture and lifestyle.
There are so many places I would love to discover... Ticking off my bucket list!
My passion is meeting people in all the variety the world has to offer, while reminding me of the importance of carrying my camera with humour, compassion, humility and curiosity.
My pursuit of new experiences rushes me to continually evolve my vision.
Since 2016, I am documenting the APPÉ LANKA Project in Poonakary in the Kilinochchi district which is in the north of Sri Lanka. An area recovering from decades of civil war.
Portraits -
All the portraits in my gallery are either from assignments, or from magic connections during my road trips, or from wonderful people I am grateful to have in my life.
If you have any questions or a request, you are most welcome to send me an email.
Enjoy the visit!
Olivia Bonnal Sansoni