Another recent discovery , german artist Stefan Milev is a truly eye-catcher. More than a simple fashion photographer, he is a successor of the 19th’s century fine art photography. A lover of analog aesthetics, his portraits could be almost paintings. Read below our little chat with him!
Hello Stefan, what did drive you to be a fashion photographer?
I always had a focus on art, but I never wanted to photograph cars or stills. I love portraits. In the very begining of the 90 ‘I have discovered some photographs of Lindbergh & Penn, henceforth I knew which direction I want to go. They have infected me. It is is more than 20 years ago …
Where are you based in and why?
Now I live with my wife and daughter in Pattonville, (a small town in the middle of nowhere) because I’m there away from the hustle and bustle. I work mostly in Paris and Berlin.
Do you feel you have a defined style?
Oh yes, it’s very simple and unique. It’s a mix of mystery and beauty and it stands somewhere between photography and painting. Nevertheless, I am learning something new every day.
What do you think needs to be admired in the fashion industry? And what would you change?
The fashion industry is boundless, I like that. The point I don’t like is the fast life in fashion. I think everything takes its time even if something takes a long time to leads to a positive result.
Explain us your most challenging project you have ever done…
There are too many … Starting with the time as an assistant … Each day brings something new and unexpected with it
Generally, what do you prefer: to shoot in studio or exteriors?
I have a preference for studio, but I don’t mind to work outside.
I think you are a big fan of analogical photography’s aesthetics. What is your relationship with it?
I am, yes! But I’m using a digital camera, too. In digital i don’t like the fact that you see the photographs on the screen, I rather hold the photographs in my hand to look on it. For me analog has first and foremost much better quality of depth of field, it’s kind of softer than digital and it looks more natural. Sometimes I start a day with the digital camera, but as soon as I’m done with the light and the model is in the right position I jump quickly to the analogue to capture the silhouette on a “one-shot-picture” as a Polaroid or on Film, most 4×5 or 8×10 . I do not like manipulated images.
What/who is your greatest influence?
I have a lot of influences, often from a very different range. Sometimes it’s a musician or a song, sometimes a movie or just some photographs I have seen. I adore Rembrandt and Manet, even they are so different.
What is your biggest goal?
To continue the tradition of Fine Art photographers from the early 19th Century with my signature!
What are your future plans?
To enjoy life as it is. I love my family and my work makes me very happy.
If you want to know more about Stefan, check out his website: www.stefanmilev.com/
