In the fifteenth installment of "The 13th Hour," we embark on a conversation with Miguel Vallinas Prieto, the Spanish photographer whose unique and captivating imagery springs directly from his imagination, leaving us all amazed.

During our chat, we explore his childhood inspirations, such as Humberto Rivas and how his current work style differs from those earlier aspirations. We delve into his appreciation for both a tranquil lifestyle and the exploration of cities, constantly seeking fresh inspiration and seeking out new artists. We also discuss how he aims to continue reaching out to collectors whilst gaining maximum visibility through homes and museums alike. All this and more awaits you in another captivating chapter of our 13th Hour series.

1 - At 13am, we aim to celebrate and showcase a broad range of creative roles, disciplines and skillsets. How would you describe yourself and your role within the creative world to those unfamiliar with your work?

I'm a photographer, and that's how I feel. The substantial difference that makes my photography special and creative is that I do not photograph what I see, but rather, I photograph what I imagine.

2 - Another aspect that sets 13am apart is our commitment to diversity and representation among our artists. Could you share a bit about your background and where you call home?

I come from the world of advertising photography. I have always combined advertising photography with my more personal projects. My advertising work has involved living in different cities. When I managed to dedicate all my time to advertising photography, I returned to my small hometown. I am from a town of barely 20,000 inhabitants in the province of Valladolid in Spain. This allows me to lead a quiet life close to nature.

3 - How would you define your artistic style? Has it evolved or undergone any changes over time?

My artistic work is in constant evolution. I follow the path of my imagination. My photography is a work of ideas in which everything is predetermined and thought out before each shot of my camera. Lighting is a determining factor in my work, and I feel comfortable working within my studio. This continuous evolution takes me towards an increasingly surreal terrain.

4 - Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you transform an idea into a tangible piece of work?

I like photographic series. An idea unifies a collection. I like working on that idea and letting it evolve over time, becoming more and more complex.

5 - In terms of inspiration, where do you go to find this? Who were your main influencers and inspirations as you were growing up?

It's curious. The photographers I grew up with, who made photography important to me, are nothing like the photographer I have ended up being. I liked photographers who worked in black and white, very classic. The Argentine Humberto Rivas was my favorite. However, I always work in color. Perhaps my current work is more inspired by painters than photographers. I like all the surrealists, and above all, I am inspired by René Magritte.

6 - What advice would you offer aspiring artists or photographers looking to establish themselves in the industry?

Believe in the work you do and don't be in a hurry to achieve goals. Be honest with yourself and develop what you like without thinking if this coincides with what others like. If you like what you do, you will end up finding a place among those who also like what you do. Enjoy the work.

7 - Creative roadblocks affect many individuals in our field. How do you unwind and revitalize your creative energy? Are there any hobbies or passions you pursue outside of your work?

I like to surround myself with things that inspire me. I enjoy music, a contemplative and quiet life. That's why I need to be close to nature. However, I also need stimulation and to go out regularly. Visiting other cities allows me to see the work of other artists. Being connected to the world means getting out of my routine.

8 - Reflecting on your career, could you share a standout project or collaboration that you consider a highlight? How did the opportunity come about?

My professional career has been going on for a long time, and I am grateful that I have been able to participate in projects that are interesting to me. I like it when my photographic work is linked to other artistic disciplines, creating collaborative works that merge two disciplines.

I usually work with architects and decorators who have included my work in their projects. My artistic photographs have also been used to illustrate covers of books and musical albums. They have been featured as posters for plays or in some performances. Additionally, my photographs can be seen in some movies or film series. I have also worked in the realm of haute couture fashion, and my photographs have been used as labels for some wines. It's about different arts coming together as one.

9 - Can you provide a little insight into your current projects and any upcoming plans you have in the pipeline? Is there anything we should be looking out for in the not too distant future?

I focus on working freely on the collections that occupy my time. I work on collections that I then fit into projects. I prefer this approach over working on specific projects that constrain my creativity.

It is true that my work is aimed at being able to showcase it at future art fairs, which I usually attend. I have some decorative projects planned and a commitment to take photographs for an entire hotel floor of a well-known hotel chain. You will soon know more about it.

10 - What has your experience been like collaborating with 13am thus far, and what motivated you to join forces with us?

My experience with 13am has been good. I am glad that they contacted me and gave me the opportunity to work together. It's an opportunity for my work to reach more people, and above all, the possibility of providing the photographs that I considered and being free in style.

11 - Looking ahead, what would be your dream project or client to tackle in the future?

The future is now. Each new photograph holds the importance of this moment. Hopefully, the next one will be the one you notice and decide to have it accompany you at home, hanging on the wall of your living room. I want to continue reaching collectors and have my work sneak into your homes. In the future, I would like my photos to belong to the collections of contemporary art museums, to be visitable, and to be seen by as many people as possible.

12 - To conclude on a lighter note, imagine hosting a dinner party where you could invite four individuals, living or deceased, who would they be and why?

Of course, if I were to organize a dinner, I would prefer living people to attend rather than dead people. It's a joke.

Surrounding yourself with inspiration would be perfect. A good poet who could carry the weight of the conversation could be Benedetti, a painter like Magritte, a film director such as Orson Welles, and a musician like Cannonball Adderley. I'm sure something crazy would come out of a meeting like this.

13 - If you were granted the power of time travel, which historical event would you choose to witness firsthand, and what intrigues you about it?

I had never thought about this. I think that more than the past, I am intrigued to know the future. I would like to travel there and see how far we are willing to go.