Interview: Photographer Caltar (France)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Caltar, I am 40 years old, and I live in France. I am a photographer specialized in creating cinematic sets. Passionate about cinema and artistic creation in general, my career is marked by a fascination with details and surreal and dreamlike worlds, which I transcribe into my photographic works.

How and when did you get into photography?

I started photography seriously in 2011. At that time, I was working in IT, but I had lost interest in that field. Fascinated since my childhood by movie sets and the creation of worlds they allow, this passion for staging and details naturally led me to explore photography, where I can bring my own worlds to life through the lens. I first decided to delve into studio photography to learn lighting before starting to build my own sets.

What does photography mean to you?

For me, photography is an artistic means of expression that allows me to transcribe my imaginary worlds into reality, making them a chronicle through my photos. It is a way to capture moments frozen in time and tell stories. Photography allows me to express myself deeply without words, using images to convey my feelings and emotions in a more natural and intuitive way.

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?

Yes, I spend a lot of time designing and building the sets for my photos, a process that can take from a few days to several weeks. Each element is carefully placed to contribute to the desired atmosphere. However, once in the studio, I adopt a more spontaneous approach with the models, letting them move freely while guiding them towards my vision.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

My photographic style is characterized by cinematic sets built entirely in my studio. My works blend the real and the unreal, creating scenes filled with mystery and melancholy. I often use chiaroscuro to add narrative and visual depth. Feminine nudity is often explored, symbolizing vulnerability, strength, intrinsic beauty, and divinity. My photographs are an eclectic assembly where each element, even bits and pieces, finds its place to give life to the imaginary worlds of my mind.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration mainly comes from cinema, comic books, and classical art, as well as from my childhood in the 80s and 90s, a period during which I was immersed in the cultural references of that era. Filmmakers like Guillermo del Toro, David Lynch, Tim Burton, Wong Kar-wai, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and Wes Anderson, as well as artists like Edward Hopper and Gregory Crewdson, deeply influence my work. My sources of inspiration are very varied: everything around me can nourish my creativity and then mix in my mind to bring my photographic works to life.

Studio, on location, or both?

Studio, to have complete control over the sets and lighting.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I work with the passion of an amateur, developing themes that inspire me. But I also sell prints at exhibitions. Although this activity is growing, it is not yet sufficient to live on it properly.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

My most memorable session was the creation of the "Hôtel des Moulins" (Mills Hotel) series in 2017. I built my first complete set and did 20 nude photo sessions with different models. It was an ambitious and exhausting project, but it allowed me to truly define my style and assert my artistic vision.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Nikon. As a child, I had my first photography experiences with my father's Nikon FM2, and I have remained loyal to the brand ever since. My favorite lens is the 24-70mm for its versatility, with a preference for the short focal lengths, which allow to enlarge the set and exaggerate the perspectives.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

My advice would be to fully immerse yourself in your passion and never stop experimenting. It is also crucial to stay true to your vision. Finally, do not be afraid to take the plunge and show your work to the world, even if it may seem intimidating at first. Ideas alone are worthless, it is their realization that counts.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I find your magazine well-designed. It highlights a variety of styles and photographic approaches, which is very enriching for the photography community.

https://www.instagram.com/caltar

https://www.caltar.com

https://www.facebook.com/CaltarPhoto