One way of introducing Lukasz Wierzbowski would be by presenting him as a 27- year-old, self-taught photographer who currently lives and works in Wroclaw, Poland. An undeniably more dramatic way would be naming him the king of effortless oddness. I prefer the second one.
Wierzbowski’s photographic work covers a huge range as he shoots in both colour, black and white, portraits and everything in between. Nevertheless, what really makes him stand out is his way of taking peculiar, yet eccentrically normal photos of mesmerizing girls in ordinary locations that turn magical when he adjusts his lens. In other words, photography at it’s best.
Lukasz, how did you get into photography?
My father introduced me to photography when I was 12, around the same time I started borrowing my mother’s compact camera and doing my first photo sessions with my cousin. When I was 15 I got my first VHS camera and got more interested in making short movies. But, a few years ago I went back to my roots and picked up analogue photography.
Why analogue?
Maybe I’m a bit old fashioned but the digital world can be overwhelming in so many ways. Film on the other hand, is mysterious and exciting on a whole different level. I love the imperfection of it, the grains, the light leaks and all those tiny unintended details that make the picture unique.
What type of camera do you use now?
Most of the time I use a Canon Rebel K2 SLR camera. It gives me full control over the image I want to capture and it’s quite easy to carry.
How do your surroundings influence your photos?
I’m very much influenced by my surroundings. I don’t like to plan my sessions in advance so every session is very much built on the relation between my models and the place where we are shooting. I love working at the same locations several times, but walking around the city gives me a great opportunity to find brilliant new locations too.
There are a lot of beautiful girls in your work, have you ever hooked up with one of them?
Never. Most of my models are family, friends or friends of friends. I guess there is a certain kind of chemistry during every session which can be exciting in a way but keeping a distance makes it even more dynamic.
Do you believe pure talent is enough to be a good artist?
I feel that the good artist is not only talented; he also has a certain sensibility which makes his work extraordinary and recognizable.
Tell me something that makes you happy?
Being with people I love.
Something that pisses you off?
Ignorance.
OK, something you have never told anyone before?
I’m addicted to liquorice candy.
If you compare you current living situation with your dream life are there any differences and if that’s the case which ones?
I pretty much enjoy my life as it is, the only problem would be that I still have problems supporting myself which is kind of frustrating. Besides, I would love to travel more than I do now.
Who doesn’t… Finally, what are your hopes for the future?
I will be happy with whatever future brings.
Thanks, Lukasz!
Psst…make sure to check out Lukasz’s webpage and flickr for more superb photos.
