Portrait of a Photographer: LIHI BROSH
With a positive attitude, a big smile, and her characteristical half-black-half-blonde hair, Lihi Brosh is known by many throughout the world.
Traveling from Tel Aviv to Manhattan, passing through Tokyo, the Israeli self-taught photographer has been doing photography since she was 14, which was the age she touched her first camera.
A few years later she booked a flight and was on the way to NYC, the destiny she always dreamed about. There she had a pure and honest version of “love on first sight” with the city and there she found her second home.
Lihi spent 6 years traveling back and for to NYC where she did street documentary during that time, crashed the coolest parties and met a lot of interesting people.
The city that never sleeps seems to suit and understand Lihi’s curiosity more than any other city did so far, and there she was able to capture all its secrets.
Crazy and spontaneous setups and peculiar people are things that you will find in her photography, and it’s her confidence and body language that have helped her approach others, hang out with influential people and shoot total strangers.
Paris Hilton, ASAP Rocky, Jeremy Scott, and many other big names are on her shotlist and more than 10 exhibitions up until now… This girl is unstoppable.
GATA sat down with her and talked. Let’s get to know her!
GATA: There are millions and millions of photographers in the world. Why did you decide to dedicate your life to photography? Where does your passion come from?
Lihi: It started very naturally at a very young age, I never had a moment to really think about why and how. I felt that there's something very romantic about catching a moment. I don't think the idea of other photographers should be intimidating, there's a beauty to it.
GATA: What would you give as advice to someone who wants to move to the big city?
Lihi: Come prepared with knowing what your goal is and stay focused! Big cities can be very destructive.
GATA: In an interview you did for MILK, you mentioned that the people you take photographs of are often strangers to you. We see a very good mood in all of your pictures, do these strangers become your friends sometimes?
Lihi: Of course! The beauty of photography is that photography is also a tool to get access to people in a very friendly way. It gives you the opportunity to develop a stronger connection with the person.
GATA: Can you tell us a little bit about your experience in Tokyo? What do you like about this city and what are your impressions of the creative scene?
Lihi: I arrived in Tokyo two years ago to present my artwork in an exhibition. It was a small victory for me in my career since Tokyo has been my dream destination for years.
I loved how big of a part mystery takes in the essence of the city. when you walk in the street you feel that there's another layer beyond what you see. I was very impressed by the creative scene, how rich, precise, and professional it is.
I can’t wait to come back again
GATA: How do you keep yourself busy in these uncertain times? Are you creating something during this pandemic?
Lihi: I’m currently planning upcoming editorials, scouting, and looking for more stories and inspirations. And also- learning Japanese ;)
GATA: Can you name us an artist that has influenced you?
Lihi: Joseph rodriguez ,Susan Meiselas ,simon wheatley ,Alex Webb, Bruce Davidson ,Thomas Hoepker ,Ferdinando Scianna.
GATA: What are your goals or dreams for the future?
Lihi: My main goal is to finish my 10 years project of street photography of downtown manhattan.
GATA: What is next Lihi?
Lihi: Corona will tell us!
GATA: We always ask this question to all the creatives. We really believe cinema can have an impact on the life of people: Can you name 3 of the movies that had an impact on you or have inspired your art?
Lihi:
Streetwise 1984 By the amazing photographer Mary Ellen Mark directed by her husband Martin Bell.
It’s a documentary that follows the kids of downtown Seattle, it's not an easy movie to watch, but the way it was presented, edited, and photographed just hypnotized me, from A to Z.
Eyes of Laura Mars A 70’s NY horror movie where The main character is an independent female photographer. I enjoyed seeing this presentation of strong women in the cinema. And also the styling is incredible.
Coonskin - very controversial and vulgar movie, the technique of cartoons mixing with the film is just excellent. The soundtrack, the feel of the movie, and the political statements are very strong! It’s a masterpiece.
