This interview is about an exceptional photographer whose experiences in various dynamic urban environments have profoundly shaped his artistic vision. He has masterfully combined a passion for urban exploration with a talent for capturing the raw and unfiltered essence of city life through both photography and video.

 

 

After living in Cologne, you moved to the German capital Berlin, which likely brought a contrast in your environment. In what direction did your work develop, and how did Berlin shape your creative process?

Moving to Berlin marked a significant transition for me due to the city’s bustling energy and the abundance of unconventional activities, which was a stark contrast to Cologne. While in Cologne, my main pastime involved scaling urban structures and capturing these landscapes through photography. In Berlin, I began to merge my climbing expertise with my photography passion, focusing on documenting graffiti artists, which proved to be an enriching experience. Additionally, I was pursuing a degree in Photography at the time, which allowed me to expand my skill
set considerably.

 

 

Photography is your main medium, alongside video. Where did you first get in touch with photography and cameras, and what do you appreciate most about the medium? Was there a pivotal moment that made you realize you wanted to pursue a career as a photographer?

My older brother gave me a Polaroid camera when I was between 6 and 8 years old, sparking my initial fascination with photography. I recall roaming through nature, camera in hand, experiencing a sense of wonder that I still feel today when I travel and work on my long-term projects. However, when Polaroid film ceased production and was no longer available, I took a hiatus from photography. It wasn’t until a school project required me to use a digital camera that I resumed, and ever since then, photography has been my primary medium.

 

The urban space is a recurring theme in your photographs. What fascinates you about urban environments, and where does the origin of this interest lie?

Reflecting on my interests, it’s not so much the urban environments themselves that captivate me; rather, it’s the thrill of being in places not readily accessible to all. In such locations, I find a profound sense of serenity and a joy for life. Nowadays, I engage in more outdoor activities, which elicit the same emotions that I associate with urban exploration.

 

 

Was there a project where you were afraid – of heights, of moving trains or simply of getting caught? If not, how is it that you feel safe in such moments?

Facing fear is a vital aspect of life, and I have always strived to confront it. Learning to say ‘no’ when something feels too risky is one of the crucial lessons I’ve absorbed over the years. Understanding my body’s capabilities plays a significant role in reducing risk in my work.

 

Your work has been showcased in various places worldwide. What does traveling mean to you personally, and how does it influence your creative process?

I deeply value the opportunity to travel as much as I do and am very grateful for it in my life. Growing up, I rarely had the chance to venture outside of Germany. Thus, when I took my first flight to Kyiv in 2015, it was an incredible experience to witness a completely different culture firsthand. Since then, travel has become my primary source of inspiration for new projects.

 

Do you have any people, especially in the realm of photography, whom you look up to or see as an idol?

@emiliedesir
@normanbehrendt
@jacktezam
@cocobongo666

 

How do you approach the process of taking a picture? What must be present for you to decide to capture an image?

Most of the time, when I’m taking a lot of photos, I find myself in a new environment or situation that I find so fascinating I want to capture it.

 

 

What is your favorite image from your artworks of 2023? Why this one in particular? Is it because of the story the picture tells or rather the adventure you had to take the shot?

Unfortunately, I don’t have a favorite personal photo from 2023, as I underwent knee surgery early in the year following a bouldering accident. It took me a while to get back to fitness, which unfortunately meant I couldn’t work on any major projects. However, I’m now back in
great shape and will soon be heading to Greenland for an extended expedition. If all goes well, I will definitely have a favorite photo in 2024. 🙂

 

Join us for an insightful session with Cpt. Olf at Forward Festival 2024 in Berlin. Get more information here.

 
Image Credits: © Cpt. Olf, 2024