What initially got you interested in photography?

I moved to Madrid when I was nineteen and took an old Nikon camera with me. It was completely mechanical and I had no idea how to use it. But I was inspired by William Klein's street photography... I wanted to explore Europe and make a visual diary of my findings. I wasn't conscious of it at the time, but images are a way of creating a personal history.

Femininity is a theme that runs through a lot of your work. What do you find interesting about this kind of subject matter?

I have images of myself that were taken by an ex-lover, and that opened up something for me. They evoke a feeling of tenderness and trust. Moments like these radiate an ambiance that is difficult to articulate. I suppose I am after something autobiographical, but it is not limited to that. I want to create very pretty, feminine images. Maybe it's a buffer against the ugly world we live in. But I find it alluring, and always have.

Historically, women in art have usually been seen through the eyes of the male artist. Do you think it's different when a female artist approaches the subject?

In some senses, but the subject of empowerment is old hat where female sexuality is concerned. My photographs embody a female perspective where taste is the only morality.

You've also shot a lot in Japan. What did you find most interesting about Japanese culture?

I was there about four months total. Attitudes about art are different in Japan. There's a lack of hierarchy that I agree with. And I love Japanese food! It's amazing. Food standards are very high. I also love the simplicity... the Japanese are un–convoluted. I suppose that this stems from Buddhism... I'm not sure...

You also prefer natural light, right?

You can achieve most things with natural light if you're lucky. I am a spontaneous person and it's more organic to me, and sublime. I feel something special in the patterns of natural light. this is not to say that I wouldn't use artificial lighting for effect if I had to. I would. It might even be interesting...