Flânerie with Lea Banchereau

Flânerie with Auralie is an interview series that wanders on a walk (literal or imagined) and explores the current introspective thoughts and reflections with an Auralie muse.

Lea Banchereau is a photographer focused on 35mm and medium format film. Born and raised in France, Lea currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.

What, where, why, and how are you currently wandering? 

I just woke up and am making my daily cup of coffee. The morning is my favorite time of the day. I have the entire day ahead of me, and I feel energized. I feel creative. My mind wanders to summer plans, being by the water and feeling a light breeze caressing my skin. I’m feeling creative and inspired. But then, I come back to reality and start imagining the places I want to travel to and, as always, the photos I will take - wherever I am.

A problem you have recently encountered or solved:

Having to say no, is not easy for me. I quickly say yes just for the sake of saying yes. I’m happy to be finally setting boundaries and saying no more.

A question you are searching for an answer to:

How can I explore more creative ideas and step outside my comfort zone?

Something you are regretted at the time that has later proven to be positive:

Taking on too many projects and feeling overwhelmed. I regretted it at that moment because I felt like I couldn’t deliver. But on the other hand, it taught me to set realistic expectations and proved to myself how much I could do.

A decision that influenced your life:

When I was 19, living in France, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I spontaneously booked a flight to New York by myself, not knowing what to expect. It was my first trip alone, and it was on this trip that I decided to move to New York.

Something you are presently observing:

The skyline of New York. I love that I can see the whole city from my apartment - it is so cheesy, but it's a constant reminder that I accomplished my dream of moving here. I observe the joggers, my neighbors walking their dogs, and the cars driving by.

How do you describe yourself?

Creative, European, quiet, introverted.

A fond memory:

The first time I visited New York as a teenager. It was the first time I was in the US, and I was mesmerized by the skyscrapers and the pace of the city. I remember imagining living here, not thinking it would ever come true.

Advice you would give your past self:

Trust that things will get better, and everything will eventually work out.

A quote or story:

I love The Little Prince - one of my favorite quotes is, “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched. They are felt with the heart.”

Who am I?

Oh, if only I knew…

What is life asking of me?

To be present in the moment and focus on one thing at a time.

P.S.

Iced mint tea is simply the most refreshing drink as the temperatures get hotter. I will either make a batch at home to enjoy throughout the day or get one at my favorite neighborhood coffee shop and enjoy it in the park with a good book.

Lea's Essentials:

Essential 01

Essential 02

Essential 03

Essential 04

Essential 05