Emma Eriksson Carlström at FIKA, NY:Nordstjernan met up with the young photographer to talk about dreams and inspirations.

This is your first ever photo exhibition, how does it feel?
"It feels fantastic! I can’t believe that I will have my first exhibition in New York, of all places. It feels like an unrealistic dream, and I won’t understand how big this is until I’m actually there and see my pictures hanging on the wall. This is my first trip to the U.S., so I'm like a child counting down the days until Christmas."

When did you start photographing?
"I got my first camera from my sister as a gift when I was 15 years old, and ever since that day, I have been captivated. First I took pictures of everything, but now I make more arranged photo shoots. The phrase, 'A picture is worth a thousand words' is true and I feel that I can show who I am better in a photo than in written words. But it's a lot of work. You have to come up with an idea, find a model, location and all the props."

What makes you pleased with a photo?
"When everything goes as planned. From the very start, I have a clear picture in my head about how I want it to be, but in reality there's so much that can go wrong. A good start is to shoot outside because then you get the best light conditions."

Do you have a role model?
"My role model right now is Tim Walker, the much awarded British fashion photographer."

Where do you find inspiration?
"I photograph things I feel drawn to, which build on the ideas I get. Inspiration comes from movies, music, photo documentaries and fashion."

Do you have a dream job?
"That my own photo idea, from beginning to end, will end up on the cover of a magazine."

What obstacles have you encountered along the way to becoming a photographer?
"I haven't noticed any major obstacles yet ... knock on wood. But since I work full-time (as a finance assistant) to afford all the equipment, I feel I don't have enough time to practice my photography. As well as getting the props in time. Because I do not own any flashes and lighting kit, it can be difficult sometimes to arrange everything in time. But thanks to the people around me who help out with being models and find good settings, my photo work is possible."

How much work lies behind an exhibition like this?
"The post-production can be tough—it's so much more than just taking good photos. I need to choose which pictures I will bring and get frames, make posters, invitations and logotype, send invitations, email and contact different organizations and still manage my full-time job."

What are you most nervous about?
"That I will miss my flight or that no one comes to the opening of my exhibition. I don’t know many people in New York, but while I am here I hope to make many new contacts."

Don't miss Emma Eriksson Carlström's Photo exhibition at FIKA Espresso Bar, 66 Pearl Street, NY. Opening reception March 16 at 4 p.m.
Find out more about Emma at http://www.maerixon.blogg.se

Text: Hanna Aqvilin