Interview: Photographer Pierre-Yves LAURENT (Belgium)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m a 33 years old photographer from Brussels. I started as a model manager and photoshoot organizer before taking a camera in my hand myself. I started a few month ago but got great feedbacks for fellow photographers which motivates me to continue further.

How and when did you get into photography?

About 7 years ago. A few Miss Belgium candidates asked me to help them getting “likes” on their facebook page. After the contest they continued as models and I helped them to contact photographers, brands, social medias etc. I contacted magazines such as P-magazine, FHM Nederland,… to have the pictures printed. I got hired by P-magazine to find them models and photographers each month. Later I decided to organize photoshoots around wedding themes myself in collaboration with stylists and so on. I decided to use my Covid time to learn photography and start myself as a photographer.

What does photography mean to you?

It is the art of expressing yourself through movements and colors.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

Sensual chic. Sexy but not vulgar. Colorful and sweet. I love making women beautiful by bringing the sexyness in them while being respectful.

Where do you get inspiration from?

A lot of photographers especially Julia Trotti.

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

I would start by looking for a location and see what it inspires me to create. I would look at the model’s instagram to see her style and if it talks to me. On the location itself, I would already have ideas but there is always a big part of improvisation.

Studio, on location or both?

Location but I would love to try studio as well.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Amateur hobbyist but I’d love to make a living out of it.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

Florencia’s shoot, it was my first shoot with an amazing model. I keep editing her pictures again and again.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Canon 6D mkii + 50mm 1.4. Would love to try the 24-70mm 2.8

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

If you have never tried photography : Youtube tutorials from Julia Trotti and Jessica Kobessi to learn the basics. Them photoshop tutorials to learn about layers and coloring

What do you think of our new magazine?

I’ve know it for a while, love the idea of promoting new talents!

@pierre_yves_laurent