Interview with Georgianna Lane
My little French shop has brought so many wonderful people into my life, and author / photographer Georgianna Lane is one of those gems. From the moment we started stocking her enchanting floral books, she's become more than just an admired artist; she's a dear friend.
Whenever I find myself in Paris, there's nothing better than meeting Georgianna at a cozy café where we can dive into our shared love for Paris and all things floral. Surrounding myself with inspiring women like her fuels my creative fire! So, I'm thrilled to present this interview offering you a glimpse into the world of Georgianna, a master at capturing the timeless beauty of flowers.
PHOTO CREDITS: All photos by Georgianna Lane
Bonjour Georgianna! What ignited your love for photography and flowers, and when did you first realize it was your passion?
I was raised with photography so always had a camera or two since childhood. While I loved photographing all subjects from a young age, I consciously refined my focus to my favorite, florals, when I left corporate work and began my own business 20 years ago. I still do travel features and architectural projects for clients but generally with a floral angle, as that is my passion and specialty.
In your experience, what season showcases Paris in its most blooming and picturesque state?
Paris in spring is iconic and one of the quintessential times to savor the beauty of the city. Beginning in March, with magnolia blossoms, then into April with cherry, apple, wisteria and other blooming trees, and into May with pink-flowering chestnut trees and the first of the roses, the season offers so many visual delights. It’s a photographer’s dream and I feel honored and privileged to be able to document the magnificent scenes.
Your floral series is very popular in our shop — we can't get enough of your most recent Ranunculus book! How do you select which flower you dedicate a book to next?
Thank you so much! I’m truly delighted that my books are popular with your customers, and I so appreciate everything all of you do there to stock, promote and sell them. It’s a very special relationship for me.
As for choosing the titles, I have my personal preferences, of course, but I do also survey my followers and readers to see what they are most interested in. Then I include that market research information in discussions with my publishers and editors. Not all titles that I’ve photographed are my first choice, but I’ve been fortunate to have done Roses, Peonies, Dahlias, Hydrangeas and Ranunculus, and am currently working on two more which I hope your clients love as much!
Your "in bloom" series showcases the beauty of various cities like Paris, New York, and London. What drew you to settle specifically in Paris, and what makes it stand out as your chosen place to live?
I always have a fabulous time in New York, and I adore and know London very well, having lived there three different times in my life. But Paris has always held a sparkle and charisma for me since I first visited with my Mom when I was fourteen. I was already studying the language and felt a strong connection even then, when discovering the Impressionists, the literature and the culture. While London is familiar and fun and playful, my relationship with Paris has been an education in history, decorative arts, excellence in craftsmanship and boundless creative exploration. And, whereas New York and London are vast cities, Paris to me is just the right size. It’s big enough without being overwhelming and yet offers endless sources of discovery and delight. Moving here was the culmination of a dream that my mom and I conceived of on that very first trip and it is deeply gratifying. I feel very thankful and blessed every day that this enchanting place is now my home.
And finally, we ask all of our Parisian Francophile friends: can you share your favorite Paris address?
My favorite Parisian addresses are undoubtedly gardens and floral related destinations. Of all of these beautiful locations, my enduring favorite is the Palais Royal, especially at this time of year. That aesthetically satisfying combination of sublime architecture and luscious, billowing roses cannot be bettered, in my opinion.
I hope you enjoyed this peek inside the beautiful and romantic work of Georgianna Lane, just as springtime blooms all around us! To browse our collection of her stunning books, stop by the shop or see the links below.
A bientôt,
Sandra
Follow Georgianna on Instagram.