Lukasz Wierzbowski is a very unique Polish photographer in that he’s been taking all his photos in very unusual and unconventional poses and surroundings. He keeps on experimenting with compositions which sometimes seem whimsical and bizarre but very inventive and extraordinary. His photos have been extensively covered by famous magazines and publications for their quirky visual appeal and playfulness. The locations and interior of the places where he often shoots also plays a great role in defining his images. He does not make any significant changes in settings and prefer houses with interior of 70s and 80s. Most of his photography is about freedom and passion with an attitude of letting yourself go with the flow. In this short interview, Lukasz Wierzbowski tells about himself and his journey into photography:

Please tell us about yourself:

I was born and grew up in a small town in the south of Poland called Lubliniec. I moved to Wroclaw to study psychology. As a third year student I started taking photos but never expected that my hobby would turn into such a crucial part of my life as it has had. At the moment, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

I’ve been taking picture for about 5 years now. Something that was just a fun activity born out of boredom, soon became more serious. I still find it hard to call myself a photographer, especially as I’m a self taught. It’s difficult to estimate how many photos I normally take but I try to do so as often as I can and I always have an enormous number of undeveloped films (I can’t keep up with developing them).

Being able to support myself by doing what truly gives me joy is my biggest achievement. I currently work on both commissioned and personal projects.

Why do you take pictures?

I take pictures because it is a pure joy of self expression; something that makes my body and mind fully occupied. Each photo session is a sort of journey. It allows me to get lost in a moment and fully relax.

What is the key area of your photography and which camera do you mostly use?

It’s portrait photography with a twist. I use Contax G2 and Canon Rebel K2. I don’t edit my photos; I just select the ones I like the most.

I always enjoyed the unknown the film brings. I like to be surprised by the moment I caught a while ago instead of checking the instant result. It also makes me more selective as I try to put a different approach to each single frame.

Tell us about your method or process into photography:

My process of taking photo is quite simple. I just get in touch with a model or they get in touch with me. We pick a place and start exploring it. I like capturing the relation between humans and the surroundings so my photography is very much based on that. Each place, both indoors and outdoors, is filled with never ending possibilities.

Tell us about your very distinctive style:

I feel confident in style I developed over the years. I treat it like my base but there is plenty of space for experimentation. That way I can always explore new territories.

Which places or regions do you prefer for shooting?

I discovered that basically every place can be used in an active way. I love seeing places for the first time, both natural and human made. It triggers a float of ideas that I try to execute with a model. I adore Polish retro style blocks with 80s oriented furniture but I also love the beauty of deep forest and the nature in general.

What are you up to these days?

I’m in the process of enjoying the summertime. I’m also gathering material for my new book and working on a few more fashion oriented projects.

Say something to our readers:

Follow your instincts.

Lukasz Wierzbowski links: Website | Flickr | Facebook 

Note: All images used with permission. Please do not copy or distribute without the approval of the photographer.