Photography has played a role in his life since an early age. Growing up in Bielefeld, he was given a Bessamatic camera, which he still owns today. As a teenager, he spent a lot of time in his own darkroom, surrounded by chemicals, paper and the need for patience. He was also a painter from an early age, studying art education in Paderborn and working with a brush for many years. However, it was not until 2013 that he made a conscious change, moving away from painting with paint and towards painting with light.

Christian discovered portrait photography through personal projects with his daughter. He soon realised that he was more interested in what becomes visible when you take the time to look beyond the surface than in pure aesthetics. This experience continues to influence his work to this day. He prefers to photograph people with whom he feels a connection. Not everyone is suitable to be photographed, and this is precisely what gives his photography its consistency.

This attitude is clearly reflected in the works exhibited at 10Fotos. The black-and-white portraits are minimalist, calm and dense. They depict individuals in moments of reflection, capturing them closely yet never intrusively. By using natural light, old lenses and long focal lengths, Christian condenses the space and directs the viewer's gaze towards the subjects' expressions and posture. The analogue look and shallow depth of field lend the images a timeless calm. Nothing is forced; everything emerges naturally.

His visual restraint is striking. Beauty is not the goal, but a by-product of truth. The portraits do not depict perfect people, but individuals who embody something. Sometimes it seems easy; sometimes difficult. Often, it remains unclear exactly what that is. This is precisely where the strength of these works lies. They do not provide explanations; they leave room for interpretation. Rather than offering a commentary on the world, they invite us to pause, feel and perhaps take away a question.

Although Christian now works with digital photography, he consciously tries to capture the analogue feel of the past. Likes or quick attention are not important to him. His images are not intended for quick scrolling and swiping, but for slow viewing. They are for people who are willing to linger a moment longer.

[ Text 10Photos ]