From storytelling to photography
Perhaps surprisingly to many, I'm not the loudest voice in the room. Introversion is more than just a character trait for me - it's the way I perceive the world, especially when I'm behind the camera.
My photography, which I UNPLUGGED PHOTOGRAPHY is an extension of this silent space that I create for myself. It's my approach where the noise of technology and distractions disappear and only the moment, the subject and my camera remain.
Why, you might ask, would someone like me - someone who doesn't exactly thrive in the spotlight or in crowds - choose to get up in front of people and speak? Why offer classes? Why share my methods, my insights? The truth is, teaching feels like an extension of my photography to me.
When I began my journey into photographing people, I had no map. I stumbled through trial and error, often unsure if I was even on the right path. Looking back, I realize how much a few well-placed pieces of advice could have saved me time, frustration and energy.
This type of photography is deeply personal and yet, paradoxically, it can be isolating - especially if you don't know how to develop or progress.
By talking about (my) photography and giving classes, I can pass on the knowledge that I have painstakingly acquired over the years and that I am constantly honing and developing. It's not just about teaching, but also about sharing. I'm always happy when I can give direct feedback to other photographers' questions in conversations - or learn something new from them myself. This dialog, this genuine connection, be it during a lecture or in a small class, is a valuable source of inspiration for me.
There is no shortcut to becoming a good photographer, but I still remember the missteps that made my path particularly difficult. Back then, I wish someone would have reached out to me and told me some basic truths about people photography. Sometimes it's just a few simple pieces of advice that make all the difference, and that's exactly what I want to help others do - get started, clear up misconceptions, minimize frustration and open a window here and there.
When I talk about my experiences in my classes, I want to show the participants that the path to photography doesn't have to be smooth and straightforward. It is a journey that is characterized by detours and failed attempts. But it is precisely these challenges that shape us and our work. If I can help to make this path a little easier for someone, then every class has been worthwhile for me. There are some photographers (and other artists) I know and appreciate very much for the fact that they feel very similarly and also design their workshops and use their lectures not just to (only) present themselves, but to share something that is important to them. Knowledge.