How did your passion for photography begin, and what inspired you to pursue this path?

My passion for photography began when I was about 16 years old. A colleague introduced me to the world of photography back then, and I was immediately fascinated by the ability to capture moments and tell stories through images. What started as simple curiosity quickly turned into a deep passion, and I knew this was the path I wanted to pursue.

What special meaning does photography have in your life, and how does it influence the way you see the world?

Photography sharpens my eye for what truly matters. It helps me focus on details and moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Through the lens, I have learned to appreciate both the simplicity and the complexity of everyday life and to constantly strive to capture something authentic and real.

Is there a photo that holds a special meaning for you?

One photo that stands out in particular is the first celebrity I ever photographed. That moment marked an important milestone in my career.

How do you define “the perfect photo”?

For me, “the perfect photo” is actually simple. It’s about capturing the right moment, when timing and composition come together naturally. It’s not about perfection, but about how all the elements work together to tell a story or evoke a feeling in an authentic way. When everything aligns, the photo speaks for itself.

Which photographers inspire you?

Not just one, but many photographers inspire me, each in their own way.

• Henri Cartier Bresson: Known as the father of street photography, he mastered the decisive moment and created powerful, timeless glimpses of life.

• Robert Capa: A legendary war photographer, famous for his raw and humanizing documentation of some of the most significant conflicts in history.

• Peter Lindbergh: He revolutionized fashion photography with his minimalist and emotional black and white portraits that valued authenticity over glamour.

• James Nachtwey: A photojournalist whose intense yet compassionate images bring global crises and injustices to light.

• Manfred Baumann: Austria’s best known photographer who has achieved remarkable international success. His career shows that it is possible to become a world class photographer even coming from Austria, which is a huge source of motivation for me.

I am also inspired by photographers who break the usual rules or have a more controversial and unconventional style.

These photographers inspire me not only through their technical brilliance, but through the stories they tell and the impact their work has had and continues to have on the world.

Do you have a favorite story from a photoshoot that you would like to share?

Yes, I actually have a pretty amusing story. Of course, I can’t mention any names, but a fairly well known personality once showed up very late to a shoot and, to my surprise, slightly intoxicated. It was a funny situation, but despite everything, the shoot turned out to be successful.

How do you see the future of photography, and which developments excite you the most?

I believe that photography is on the verge of a significant transformation, with AI playing a major role. It is essential for photographers to embrace these advancements, as AI is already changing the way we edit and create images. Those who do not engage with this technology risk being left behind. Staying informed and adapting to these changes will be crucial for photographers in the future.