Emily Dahl

Emily Dahl is a Stockholm based freelance photographer. Her beautiful photographs usually feature herself, her friends, or breathtaking local scenery. Emily plays around with editing and light to spectacular results. Gathering inspiration from everything around her, Emily manages to make every image visually different from the last, whilst still carrying her distinct style throughout her work. Visit Emily's blog (a better descripton would be "online portfolio") and enter a world of the "pretty, ugly or absurd things in [her] everyday life".

What got you into photography?

I actually started studying photography by a fluke. I was sixteen and had to pick an extra-curricular activity at school. After trying out dance (not my thing, apparently) and art (I wanted to create the masterpiece of our time, they wanted me to draw fruit) I was put in the photography group, where a sought-after spot had just opened up. I immediately understood that this, photography, was the creative medium I had been looking and longing for all my life.

Which of your own photographs is your favourite?

I couldn’t really say, I tend to like something one day and dislike it the next. But I think most people who depend on their own talent and creativity go through that from time to time.

Who are your favourite photographers?

Ellen von Unwerth, Cindy Sherman, Francesca Woodman, Camilla Åkrans, Steven Meisel, Horst P. Horst and Yelena Yemchuk , to mention some. ;)

What were you like as a child?

I was everywhere, climbing on the bookshelves or swinging from the curtains. I talked or sang incessantly and the only way to calm me down was to let me watch my My Little Pony videos or give me a pen and something to draw on, then I could be quiet for hours.

What cameras do you use?

I use a Canon eos 400D and it’s my baby. I’m planning on buying a Lomo camera this spring though, unless I get one for my birthday.

What, or who inspires you?

My friends and my boyfriend inspire me, of course. I’m happy to be surrounded my energetic, kind and creative people. Visually I’m inspired by 40’s and 50’s aesthetics, music, literature and fashion. Few things excite me like a good editorial.

Who or what would you most like to photograph?

I dream of shooting an editorial for Vogue on Fårö, a small Swedish island which is like no other place in the world. The light there is so special and surreal.

What music do you listen to?

Mostly rockabilly, northern soul and Swedish hip hop, but I love Lily Allen and Vampire Weekend too for example. I was a real indie kid growing up, so Belle and Sebastian will always own a part of my heart.

What are your favorite blogs?

I don’t read a lot of blogs, but the ones I do read are: ilovepocket.blogspot.com, hello-tiger.blogspot.com, audreyhepburncomplex.tumblr.com, hannahandlandon.blogspot.com/ and rodeo.net/niotillfem/

Emily's blog

Emily's flickr