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Pairing an interest in the everyday with a distinctively surreal aesthetic, Victor Habchy captures his surroundings with a whimsical approach. Years ago, we fell in love with his stunning series of Burning Man photos. Since then, the Paris-based photographer and director has continued to captivate, showcasing both his technical talent and artistic eye in his dreamy depictions of daily life.
Featuring candid figures, mesmerizing landscapes, and everything in between, Habchy’s body of work illustrates his versatile approach to the craft. While rendered in his characteristically enchanting aesthetic, the fanciful photographs are also shot in a range of settings, from the rain-soaked streets and romantic balconies of Paris to an eerily abandoned amusement park and a desolate desert. This selection of backdrops showcases Habchy's eclectic taste in subject matter and proves his self-described “addict[ion] to travel.”
While many of his unbelievable photographs may look Photoshopped, Habchy rarely edits or enhances his photographs. Instead, he is able to achieve his desired aesthetic with the right equipment: a Sony A7sII coupled with a 10-20mm lens. These tools allow him to shoot in low-light and wide angles in order to capture the moody aesthetic he's known for.
We had the opportunity to speak with Habchy to discuss his practice and dream-like body of work. Find out more about his inspirations and experiences below.
What inspired you to pursue photography?
Creation just makes me feel happy, fulfilled. So I think that is a good reason to make photography.
How would you describe your style?
I don’t describe my own style, but people say surreal, dreamy, living.
You often capture individuals you encounter in everyday Paris. What attracts you to these subjects?
Humans are what I found the most interesting on the journey in earth. So I like to do the most I can with them, because it’s fascinating for me. People are what I care the most about in my life.
Though many of your photos look surreal, you try to edit them as little as possible. How do you achieve this dream-like atmosphere while retaining the photos' authenticity?
I go with what nature is offering: mist, dust, fog, any natural elements that helps to create a nice atmosphere.
One of your most whimsical series is set on the grounds of Burning Man. What drew you to this event?
The promise of freedom, creativity and beauty. Those are themes I really like. I wanted to see if such a utopian place was real. And it was.
Did you face any challenges while photographing the festival?
So many. The heat, the sand, the dryness… To be honest it makes the job much harder but then you are more satisfied with the result. With great pain comes beautiful creation!
Finally, we can't wait to see more of your work! Do you have more plans for the future?
Yes, I actually am finishing my first movie. It’s a little one made with a bunch of friends, but I really loved doing it and I hope people will have pleasure seeing it as well.
Victor Habchy: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Flickr
My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Victor Habchy.
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