Your art is...

Hopefully, it's recognizable and timeless, reflecting my view of the world around me. I strive for it to never come across as forced, preachy, or pathetic. Instead, I aim for it to be cinematically inspired, narrative, ironic, humorous, sexy, and filled with love. Though, at times, I might exhibit a slight tendency to be provocative, but hopefully not excessively cynical.

Name something you love, and why.

I cherish life itself. I hold deep affection for my family, my wife, my children, my dog, and my friends. I find joy in the warmth of bathing, the embrace of summer, and savoring a glass of wine by the sea.

Which professional success meant the most to you?

Being able to provide for my family through what I am deeply passionate about and love. I find happiness when others appreciate my work and express their fondness for it. It's fulfilling when quotes, references, and ideas within my photos are recognized.

Could you eat pancakes for a whole week?

Not even for one day. But I could indulge in lavishly filled croissants with smoked salmon, tomatoes, avocado, pickles (an essential!), and mustard (also essential) every day. And, of course, hummus with gherkins.

Analog or Digital?

I prefer digital. While I have a history of shooting analog, I find it easier to recreate the analog look I adore digitally. I'm drawn to the analog aesthetic, appreciating the grain and blur in photos.

What influence does society have on your art?

I live in a privileged environment, free from real poverty, amidst the prosperity of Europe, which influences my ability to travel and stage photos. I'm deeply ingrained in the fashion photography and music scene, and trends, even negative ones, impact my personal sense of aesthetics. Currently, social media wields significant influence over the world of photography, along with changing perspectives on sustainability, global warming, gender, body positivity, and dietary choices.

What impact does your art have on society?

In my opinion, art, including music and dance, is an integral part of the human experience.

Where do you go when you want to be with yourself?

I often take long walks in the forest with my dog, ideally at least three times a week, each lasting for three hours and spanning 15 kilometers.

Tell us something about your education.

Detailing my entire education would take too long, but I've been fortunate to have great parents, wonderful friends, and a touch of luck on my side. My educational journey includes kindergarten, school, high school, an apprenticeship, studies in architecture, and a transition into styling, photography, and directing.

A question that moves you right now.

I'm moved by the hope that everything will eventually turn out for the best.

What was the weirdest encounter, the craziest adventure, or the most beautiful moment you experienced on a shoot?

I have many stories, but one of the craziest productions involved shooting on and around a 30-year-old shipwreck off Lanzarote without backup, permission, or insurance. We faced multiple challenges, including air traffic controllers strikes in Spain, widespread snow chaos in Europe, sudden storms and swells, and an unexpected downpour as we navigated around the shipwreck on inflatable boats with generators and lighting systems. It felt as if the ghosts of the sailors and mariners were trying to drive us away. In the end, we obtained incredible photos but went €60,000 over budget.

On another occasion, I staged a simulated car accident on a country road, and it began snowing heavily, appearing so real that passing cars stopped and offered us first aid.

What is more important to you: Form or content?

I appreciate it most when form and content work in harmony. A good photo thrives on the combination of the right details, much like a delectable dish relies on top-quality ingredients and seasonings. Preparation is the key.

Would you rather travel to the future or to the past?

I find great comfort in the present.

How can you tell that you are alive?

I know I'm alive when I wake up every morning, when I dance without reservations and lose myself in the moment, and when I share a kiss.

What makes you unique?

The uniqueness in me is for others to determine. I don't view myself as particularly unique or special, but as I approach 60, I still possess a full head of hair and remain paunch-free – perhaps that's unique in itself.