SBF Personal

A documentary, authentic approach is important to him in his work. Hochstrasser also says: "It is important to me to know the communication intentions of my counterpart and to accompany him in a goal-oriented, uncomplicated and high-quality way". But above all, he is interested in his subject as a person, in his interests and his motivation. And: he likes to work independently. 

How was your start in self-employment? As a self-taught photographer without a classical education, I was naïve and naïve. I started directly after my bachelor's degree. It was only over time that I learned everything that belongs to the profession of a photographer. If I had known that from the beginning, the hurdle would probably have been too high. But as it was, I grew into it step by step, paid empty fees, learned "on the job" and constantly optimised. Today, I am happy with this path and can make a living from photography as a service for companies.

What was your motivation to work independently? Self-employment is due to the job description. But I love my freedom, especially in terms of time management. However, photography has been with me since before and during my studies. I have always enjoyed capturing moments. In the beginning, it was city walks with hundreds of pictures. Today I still capture moments, but with more precision and quality. So I always ask myself which picture will bring the best benefit to the client. If I succeed in taking a perfect picture, I go home with a good feeling.

What is (d)a documentary-authentic approach? Documentary, because I photograph what I see, also in the sense of being a discoverer. With a company, I approach the pictures step by step.  I look closely, ask questions and do research to show a realistic picture. What has changed over time is my view. It is sharper, I choose the right detail more courageously and make a more purposeful selection of images. For me, being authentic means treating my subject with respect, giving them space so that they can be themselves and stand in a good light, despite the conditions of corporate photography. For me, it also means being authentic towards myself.

Does your interest in your subject lead to better photographs? I love information. That is perhaps above all a reassurance for me. I think it makes my counterpart feel taken seriously. This creates trust and thus looseness on both sides. In addition, there are always exciting or touching stories that would never have come to light without courageous questioning. For me, that is a great reward, in addition to a good picture.

What distinguishes you from other photographers? The mixture of career, interests and a trained photographic eye. What I certainly benefit from in corporate photography is my studies. I understand how a company's communication works.

You also take group pictures. How did the picture of the healers come about? A group picture is always a small stage for me. So before the people come, I choose the frame of the picture and then communicate where they are allowed to stand. I observe how people behave within the group and discreetly intervene to help. In this way, everyone finds a place that is comfortable for them. Here it was important for me to use a cone of light to intensify the spotlight of a stage even more and to show the women as a strong unit. The colouring of the clothes was more random, but makes the women appear more authentic.

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