What does it mean to be a photographer today?
It depends on what kind of photographer one is. If we are talking about a creative photographer, things are more difficult, because society accepts them more easily than before, but it's harder for them to find their target. If it's a professional in applied photography, there are more jobs available, but the competition they will face is also greater.
Between photography and teaching, which do you prefer?
For me, the emphasis is on the latter because that's how it turned out. Teaching gives me great joy. I probably do it better than photography. This makes me dedicate less time to my personal photography. I started as a photographer. I found that I had acceptance and success as a teacher. Lately, I've dedicated a lot of time to teaching cinema as well. There might come a time when the balance will tip towards photography again, although I haven't abandoned it.
Do you believe the art of photography can be taught?
I believe everything can be taught to a certain point. A teacher can shorten the path. To bring out things and make use of them.
What is your relationship with your students like?
In the beginning, there is some distance, and I don't want to force a closer relationship prematurely. Over time, a greater affinity and friendship develop - more with some, less with others. Those who have stayed around over the years, I see each time with the eagerness and affection you see a member of your extended family.
Have you regretted any of your choices?
Regarding photography, no. I wish, when I was still a lawyer, I had the wisdom to have created a small financial independence, so that I could do what I do now more freely. This happens to everyone. When we are young, we do not think about the future.
How do you judge your decision to settle in Syros and establish a branch of the Photographic Circle on the island?
The step I took to come to Syros has given great joy to both me and my wife. My only disappointment - or rather surprise - is that I expected greater acceptance from the local community, which I have not yet seen. Maybe it's also a matter of time, because I have been on the island for a short while. On the other hand, I have sent the message in Athens that I am here. I am happy that my students come to Syros every weekend to see me.
So, does the future lie in decentralization?
I see the future of life in decentralization. This needs to happen, as it already does in other countries. To reduce the significance of the capital and to develop smaller cities, which, however, should not aim to replicate the life of the capital. In Greece, provincial cities want to resemble Athens. If these cities become small Athens, then it is logical for one to leave them. One chooses to stay in a small place to enjoy the pleasure of contact.
What does Syros offer you?
It offers me a horizon, as I live outside Ermoupolis. My eye is not drowned in apartment buildings, as in Athens. Also, I was impressed by the kindness of the island's people, which is not due to some DNA, but because life here allows them to behave kindly.
What bothers you on the island?
I am frightened by the people's perception of tourist development. I believe Syros should have gentle tourist development throughout the year. I consider the planned extension of the airport a huge crime. I consider the tourist exploitation of the Upper Region an imminent crime. I think it's a huge folly to attract additional tourists in July-August, because the island cannot accommodate more. I think emphasis should be placed on attracting quality tourism throughout the year.
How do you judge the cultural events that take place in Syros?
Excluding the events of local organizations, which should be supported and held throughout the year, any other cultural event that takes place should be of high quality. In my opinion, there should be a short but very significant series of cultural events that take place in June or September and not in July-August. On the other hand, a few cultural events could be organized in winter, but always of high quality.
Is there any form of cooperation between the branch of the Photographic Circle and local organizations?
I have not asked for any subsidy from the Municipality and do not want to deprive local cultural organizations of any support. However, I know that the Municipality has refused to support local amateur photographers so that they can attend my seminars. From the Regional Administration, I had asked for support for teachers and professors to attend my seminars, but they refused. They also refused from the Prefecture to provide a sum to create a cinema club for the Syrian public.
Is there a sense of bitterness on your part regarding the way the authorities have treated you?
I wouldn't call it bitterness. But it's a shame to have a space and a person with some knowledge, and not make use of them. I'd like what I do to not be just for people who come from outside, but also for those who are already here.