1Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
I was born in the paradoxical beauty of Beirut, a city marked by its enduring spirit and intricate fabric of life. I was briefly a wanderer around Europe, and now rooted in the artistic embrace of Amsterdam, I am a photographer who seeks the timeless charm of the world. My lens captures the enduring vitality of streets, the interplay of people and the architecture that shapes our environment. With each photo, I strive to portray the world around us as a poetic ode.
I’ve always felt a deep urge to express myself visually, drawn to moments when a place or scene would seize my attention and stir something within me. These experiences often left me with a lingering sense that something was incomplete as if I needed to capture the essence of those fleeting moments. Whether it was the sight of a striking building, the beauty of a cityscape, or the layers of nature unfolding on a mountaintop, I found myself captivated by the strange and the beautiful.
The vibrant streets and their quirks always sparked something in me, though I didn’t realise it was photography I yearned for—an art that would allow me to capture, express, and complete those feelings. It wasn’t until I began taking photos in 2019 that I discovered this passion, and only in late 2023 did I decide to fully commit, dedicating time to honing my skills and embarking on the journey to find my unique style, which remains elusive but within reach.
2Where did you study photography?
I am largely self-taught, having complemented my learning with personal mentorship and extensive practice.
3Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
My first shot was taken on September 4, 2013, during my first travel trip to Berlin, Germany. It was a close-up of the majestic horses at the Brandenburg Gate in Pariser Platz, captured from a low angle that emphasised their grandeur and filled the frame with their imposing presence.
4What equipment do you use?
My current gear is a Leica Q with a fixed 28mm lens, a highly capable tool that seamlessly integrates into my workflow. Its design allows me to focus on the creative aspects of my photography while providing all the essential data needed to process and perfect each image.
5What do you hope to achieve?
Through my photography, I hope to offer a unique perspective that elevates the mundane, celebrates the beauty around us, and harnesses the power of the lens to reveal what might otherwise go unnoticed by the naked eye.
6What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
The compliment that touched me the most was being recognised among so many talented photographers. It is an incredible honour that validates my work and inspires me to continue pursuing my passion.
7What inspires your unique storytelling?
My unique storytelling is inspired by the dance between architecture and the streets, where buildings shape our cities and whisper their own stories. I’m captivated by the interplay of lines, shadows, and forms that bring these structures to life, creating a silent dialogue with the world around them. Through my lens, I aim to unveil the hidden beauty in their design and the rhythm they weave into our everyday lives.
8What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Minimalistic, evocative, and timeless.
9Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Winning the European Photography Awards is a tremendous honour for me. It represents a validation of my creative vision and dedication to capturing the world in a unique and evocative way. This distinction inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft and to explore new perspectives that resonate on a deeper level. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, and it motivates me to keep growing as an artist and storyteller.
10Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
I entered this project because each winning entry, “Sculptural Ballet” and “Love Is In The Air,” captures the poetry of everyday moments—from the fluid elegance of architecture to the spontaneous beauty of human interaction. I wanted to highlight how these scenes, though different, share a common thread of movement, rhythm, and emotion. As I try to portray in my photography, I am drawn to the unique dance between people and places, capturing those fleeting moments of beauty and connection that only happen when you’re in the right place at the right time.
11How has winning an award developed your career?
Winning this award has been a significant milestone at the beginning of my career, especially as it’s my first attempt at creating award-winning work. This recognition has validated my artistic vision and opened up opportunities to expand my network within the photography community. I hope it will attract the attention of gallery curators and others who can help share my photography through exhibitions. It’s a step towards reaching new audiences and growing as an artist.
12Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Andreas Feininger, Wolf von dem Bussche, and Otto Steinert.
13What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
The best advice I’ve been given is to always look behind me when deciding to take a photo. We often focus solely on what’s in front of us, but turning around can reveal a different perspective on the scene—one that might offer a new way of seeing and interpreting the moment. Also, to always pay attention to the borders of my viewfinder, ensuring I capture exactly what I want in the photo while intentionally leaving out what doesn’t belong.
14What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
For anyone looking to become a photographer today, my advice would be to stay curious and experiment with different styles and subjects to discover what truly inspires you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are essential to learning and growing. Focus on developing your own unique perspective and storytelling style, but don't dwell too much on it—keep it natural and intuitive, and eventually, it will find you. Also, remember to look beyond the obvious—explore different angles, perspectives, and compositions. Lastly, immerse yourself in the photography community, learn from others, and stay committed to constantly refining your craft.
15What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
My key to success is a relentless pursuit of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning. Embracing experimentation and learning from mistakes has been essential in my growth. It is often that I revisit the same spots to take the same photographs over and over again, whenever possible, and try a different approach every time.
Staying true to my vision while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives drives me forward. For me, success is not just about the end result but about the journey and the resilience built along the way.
16How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I actively seek out diverse sources of inspiration and stay curious about emerging trends and ideas. I make it a habit to engage with various forms of media, attend workshops, and connect with other creatives. I also maintain a mindset of openness and humility, recognising that there’s always more to learn and that every experience can offer valuable insights.
