Interview with Robert Fülöp | European Photography Awards Winner

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Robert Fülöp | European Photography Awards

Robert Fülöp

Robert Fülöp is an architectural photographer, whose photography journey began in 2019 in the historic city of Bratislava. His passion for capturing the intricate beauty of buildings is what started his fascination with documenting the world's architectural marvels. He strives to tell the stories of human ingenuity and design through his photographs while being the creative mind behind Cørbø.

1Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?

I'm Robert Fülöp, the creative force behind Cørbø, where I specialise in architectural photography. My journey into photography began on March 16, 2019, in the historic city of Bratislava. It was there, amidst the city's rich architectural heritage, that I discovered my passion for capturing the intricate beauty of buildings.

What started as a fascination quickly evolved into a lifelong pursuit to document the world's architectural marvels, transforming my lens into a storyteller of human ingenuity and design.

2Where did you study photography?

My journey into photography wasn't traditional in the academic sense. While I didn’t attend a formal photography school, my education took place in the real world, surrounded by the architectural wonders that sparked my passion.

The streets of Bratislava were my first classroom, and since then, every city I've visited has taught me something new. Through hands-on experience, self-study, and an unrelenting pursuit of perfection, I've developed and refined my skills to capture the essence of architecture in my work.

3Do you remember your first shot? What was it?

Yes, I remember it like it was yesterday! My first shot was taken on March 16, 2019, in Bratislava, capturing a historical monument in the heart of the city. That image marked the beginning of my journey into architectural photography. I still have the train ticket I bought to travel to Bratislava, which now hangs on the wall beside all my awards. It’s a constant reminder of where my passion began and how far I’ve come.

4What equipment do you use?

Primarily, I use the Sony A6400 camera, known for its excellent image quality and versatility. For wide-angle shots and capturing expansive architectural details, I rely on the Sony 16-50mm G lens, which offers both clarity and sharpness. The Sony 70-350mm G lens is invaluable for capturing distant architectural elements and providing a compressed perspective that highlights intricate details. Additionally, the Sigma 10-18mm lens is used for ultra-wide shots, allowing me to photograph expansive structures and interiors with an impressive field of view.

This combination of gear enables me to capture a wide range of architectural styles and details, from sweeping cityscapes to intricate close-ups, ensuring that each image reflects the unique character and story of the structures I photograph.

5What do you hope to achieve?

My ultimate goal is to transcend mere accolades and to immerse myself in the profound love I have for architectural photography. While recognition and awards are deeply appreciated, they are secondary to my primary motivation: capturing the essence of architectural wonders through my lens.

I aim to illuminate the intricate beauty and stories embedded in the structures I photograph. Each image is a testament to the harmony between human creativity and architectural innovation, and I strive to convey this through my work. For me, nothing compares to the exhilarating experience of waking up at 4 in the morning, journeying to a chosen location, and capturing that perfect shot that truly resonates with the spirit of the structure.

Photography, in its purest form, is about passion and dedication. It’s about the moments of quiet solitude and intense focus that lead to a photograph that speaks volumes. I hope to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our built environment and to celebrate the remarkable stories told through architecture.

6What compliment inspired/touched you the most?

One compliment that profoundly touched me came from a fellow photographer who said, "Your photographs don’t just capture buildings; they reveal their soul." This feedback deeply resonated with me, as it perfectly reflects my aim with Cørbø.

Hearing that my work is seen as more than just images of structures, but as reflections of their intrinsic character and story, is incredibly rewarding. It reaffirms that my passion for capturing the essence of architecture and conveying its narrative through my lens is succeeding. This compliment fuels my drive to continue exploring and highlighting the beauty and depth of the built environment.

7What inspires your unique storytelling?

The unique storytelling in my work with Cørbø is deeply influenced by the intricate relationship between architectural design and its contextual environment. My inspiration stems from the diverse architectural styles and historical narratives encountered during my travels. Each structure reveals a distinct story through its design, cultural significance, and the human experiences it embodies.

Additionally, the early morning solitude I embrace allows for a profound connection with my subjects, providing the ideal conditions to capture their essence in the most evocative light. This approach ensures that each photograph not only represents the architectural form but also conveys its broader narrative and emotional impact. This blend of contextual exploration and meticulous observation underpins my commitment to creating compelling and insightful visual stories.

8What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?

Elegant, perfection, 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 in the Architecture category, along with three Platinum awards and six Gold awards, is a tremendous honour and a profound validation of my work at Cørbø. This recognition not only celebrates the technical and artistic excellence of my photography but also acknowledges the dedication and passion that drive my creative vision.

For me, this distinction is a powerful affirmation of my commitment to capturing the essence of architectural beauty with precision and creativity. It reinforces my belief in the importance of highlighting the stories and nuances embedded in the structures I photograph. This achievement motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft and to inspire others through my work. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and excited to carry this momentum forward into future projects.

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?

The winning work I entered into the 2024 European Photography Awards consists of a series of photographs that explore the dynamic relationship between modern and historical architecture. This project includes images of both striking contemporary skyscrapers and meticulously preserved historical buildings, capturing their unique interactions and the stories they tell.

I chose this project for its ability to showcase the essence of my work at Cørbø, highlighting how architectural design reflects cultural and historical narratives. Each image was carefully selected to illustrate the contrast and harmony between new and old, emphasising the timeless nature of architectural excellence.

This series was a natural choice for the awards as it represents a significant aspect of my creative vision—merging innovation with tradition. It’s a testament to my dedication to uncovering the deeper layers of architectural beauty and presenting them in a way that resonates with viewers.

11How has winning an award developed your career?

Winning the award has significantly boosted my career by enhancing my visibility and credibility in architectural photography. It has opened doors to new opportunities, including high-profile projects and valuable collaborations. This recognition has reinforced my commitment to my craft and provided a platform to showcase my work to a broader audience, driving further success and creative growth.

12Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.

Peter Lik and Peter McKinnon have been significant sources of inspiration for me. Peter Lik’s dramatic landscapes and Peter McKinnon’s innovative techniques have profoundly influenced my approach to architectural photography, motivating me to explore new perspectives and refine my craft.

13What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?

The best piece of advice I received when starting out was simply, "Do what you love." This guidance has been a cornerstone of my career, reminding me to stay true to my passion for architectural photography and to pursue my vision with dedication and authenticity.

14What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?

My advice for aspiring photographers is to focus on what you truly love and be persistent. Develop your unique style by experimenting and finding your voice in photography. Invest time in learning and practicing your craft, and don't be afraid to take risks and push creative boundaries. Building a strong portfolio and networking with other professionals can also open doors to new opportunities and growth in the field.

15What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

The key to success in photography lies in dedicating countless hours to both capturing and editing your work. It’s this commitment to meticulous detail and relentless pursuit of perfection that truly sets your work apart. My advice is to embrace the process with passion and patience, as the time invested in honing your skills and refining your images will ultimately lead to remarkable results. Stay true to your vision and let your dedication drive your success.

16How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?

To stay receptive to new information and knowledge, I actively seek out diverse sources of inspiration and education, exploring various styles and techniques through both contemporary and classic works. I make it a point to stay curious and open-minded, regularly experimenting with new approaches in my own work. By maintaining a commitment to learning and adapting, I ensure that my skills and perspective continually evolve.

17Anything else you would like to add to the interview?

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the recognition and opportunity to share my work. This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collaborative efforts and support of my peers and mentors.

I look forward to continuing my journey in architectural photography, capturing new stories, and pushing the boundaries of the craft. Thank you for this incredible honour and for providing a platform to showcase the art of architecture through my lens.