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MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 74 31MOSTMAGAZINEQ: Your journey into photography began later in life, following a career in emergency services. How did that transition shape your approach to photography, especially in the world of high fashion?A: A photograph is always composed of 80% of the photographer%u2019s inner world. Every life experience%u2014every moment of joy and every loss%u2014adds a unique layer to their artistic universe. My background in emergency services has given me a certain detachment from the stress that many in our industry face, along with an essential perspective: we are not saving lives. There are far more people in a rush than there are real emergencies. At the same time, empathy and respect remain fundamental values in everything I do.Q: You%u2019ve collaborated with iconic brands like Chanel, Dior, and Gucci. What is it like working with such renowned names, and how do you maintain your unique voice in these projects?A: Each major brand has its own universe and DNA. When I stand before one of their creations, I always view them as works of art%u2014because that%u2019s what they are. They%u2019re not just garments; they%u2019re masterpieces, crafted down to the finest details. My approach is to respect this DNA while bringing my own vision%u2014one of admiration and an eye for detail. Staying aware of the privilege of working with such maisons is essential to me, just as much as ensuring that ego never takes over. Q: Your photographs are often described as emotional and deeply resonant. How do you achieve that balance between capturing beauty and telling a story?A: It all starts with an idea. From that idea, I create a mood board, which isn%u2019t limited to visual references%u2014it can include music, films, poetry, or anything that inspires the atmosphere I want to convey. This foundation guides not only me but also my entire team, including the model, as we work together to bring the vision to life and highlight the creation. The key is to stay true to the original concept, ensuring it remains present in every shot. This transforms a series of disconnected images into a cohesive narrative from start to finish. Q: Fashion photography can sometimes focus solely on aesthetics. How do you ensure your work transcends that and connects on a deeper level with audiences?A: What people often don%u2019t realize is that, even when fashion photographers focus on aesthetics, they are almost always expressing something personal%u2014their inner world. It%u2019s quite natural, in the end. We start with an idea and never lose sight of it throughout the entire shoot. Photography then becomes a means of expression, much like poetry through words. Every image should be a visual poem, crafted collectively by the hairstylist, makeup artist, model, stylist, and the entire team working together to bring it to life. Q: You%u2019ve worked on countless remarkable projects throughout your career. Is there a particular shoot or collaboration that holds special significance for you, and why?A: Every shoot holds a memory%u2014some good, others different%u2026 One of my most cherished experiences was a haute couture shoot I did for Book a Moda, a magazine that unfortunately disappeared during the COVID-19 pandemic. The artistic director wanted a series themed around art. During my research, I stumbled upon the letters exchanged between Camille Claudel and her lover, Rodin. A photograph of Camille deeply moved me%u2014to the point where I almost fell in love with her. Her story is so tragic, so dramatic, and she had such immense talent.I built the entire series around their love story, exploring the relationship between muse and artist. Everyone involved in the shoot was fully immersed in the concept. The model, in particular, had several discussions with me beforehand to understand the story and the significance of Rodin and Camille Claudel, two of France%u2019s greatest sculptors. This series remains one of the most emotionally and artistically significant projects of my career. Q: Paris is the epicenter of fashion, and you%u2019re based in the heart of it. How does living and working in such a creative city influence your art?A: Being in Paris certainly makes some aspects easier while presenting challenges in others. On one hand, France is home to all the major haute couture houses and an incredible number of fashion brands. Models from around the world come here, creating a constant influx of fresh talent.On the other hand, many fashion photographers aspire to work in Paris, leading to intense competition%u2014often from exceptionally talented individuals. But this dynamic creates a whirlwind of creativity that pushes everyone to elevate their artistry in all its forms.MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 74 31