Under the Cycladic Sun – A self portrait series by Oriana Senia
“Many weeks ago, me and a friend of mine made the spontaneous decision to go for a 3 day trip to Sifnos Island and meet our friend who’s working there. For sure the best decision made this summer! While we were on the boat, I had this urge to make the best out of that time, not just go there and lay on a beach. I didn’t have the time to plan a shoot, book a model or a brand, so I just thought I would try and create a self-portrait summer editorial, showcasing my moments on the island, wandering around Sifnos, creating memories at the Mediterranean. Suddenly, Ι felt even more impatient to finally arrive on Sifnos and start creating!
On our five-something hour trip from Athens to Sifnos, I only managed to sleep for an hour, even though I had only slept for like two hours the night before. I was trying to match the clothes I had taken with me with possible locations I scouted that moment on instagram, making that last minute editorial as organised as possible.
I wanted my images to project carefree summer moments, running barefoot, getting the feeling that the time has stopped, and the only thing left to do is just enjoy summer, enjoy what this island and nature is so generously offering.
The fact that I got to be the photographer, the model, and the editor all at the same time is what fascinates me most about self-portrait photography, plus the fact that nobody captures me the way I want.
Everything about the shoot went so well; we went to various spots and you could see me exploring and shooting with a tripod. Just me and my camera, no team, no makeup.
Another amazing thing we were so lucky to experience was the place we stayed at; an authentic Sifnian house, since our friend, Alexia, is from Sifnos. When you entered the house, the way it was built and the decoration inside, you could instantly feel its vibes, feeling like you entered the Greek Cycladic tradition in another era, as me and my friend Aristea noticed.”
Words and Photography by Oriana Senia
@orianasenia
