Artist statement

β€œFor me, photography is the expression of a desire not to be alone, either in front or behind of the camera.”

Portrait of T. by Danny Van der Elst, photographer

I've been photographing people for 15 years. I work as simple as possible, low tech, with natural light and without make-up. This at first glance uncomplicated way of working often produces intriguing images. I'm searching for the human essence of my subject. A photo session is often a very personal search for things that we might prefer not to show. The partially uncovered body allows me to register how the light portrays us as discreetly as possible: a human being in all her beauty and vulnerability.

Photography is often defined as writing with light. My gift as a photographer is to detect that particular light and use it to portray the emotions that usually remain behind the facade.

"Why did you become who you are today and how do I handle the invitation to portray you as respectfully and selflessly as possible?"

After about 150 photo sessions with different people, I continue this search.

The project GIRLS, in which more than 100 women participated, was awarded and exhibited internationally (2012).

After a break of several years, I consider photography as my faithful companion and breath of life and continue my work undisturbed. It is a pleasure to share my work with you on these pages.

My thanks go first of all to everyone I have worked with over the years and those who have continued to support my photography. Visit my Instagram for recent work or a look behind the scenes of my sessions.