MARTIN STRAUSS
Fashion Photography, Sensual Portraits & Creative Lighting
Berlin-based fashion photographer Martin Strauss
explores the relationship between fashion,
sensuality and creative visual storytelling.
His photography combines expressive model
portraits with a distinctive approach to
composition, lighting and atmosphere.
In this archival interview with LIONS Art Magazine,
originally published in November 2015,
Strauss discusses his development as a
self-taught photographer, the influence
of cinema on his work and his passion
for creating images with emotional impact.
From his preference for 35mm lenses to
experimenting with unconventional lighting
effects, the conversation offers an insight
into his photographic philosophy
and creative working process.
At the time of the interview, Strauss
was working professionally as a fashion
photographer in Berlin, developing
a photographic style that he described
as “Sexy-Time with Style”.
FROM THE LIONS ART MAGAZINE ARCHIVES · 2015

THE INTERVIEW
Which place do you call home?
I am living in berlin, close to my family and friends
Are you self taught or schooled?
I am completely self-taught. I visited a workshop once,
but I learned nothing about photography…hence it was
“ok” – I learned that I looked in the wrong direction 😉
How did you get into photography?
My ex-girlfriend is one of the best makeup-artists
in berlin. Well, I think thats how I got in contact
with that. And some booze 😀

As you look through the viewfinder, what is
the most critical moment in capturing your image?
Getting the image in my head in line with
the image I see through the viewfinder
How would you describe your style?
Sexy-Time with Style
What do you think makes a truly memorable photo?
A powerful photo tells you something, thouches you,
were you havent been touched long time ago…
I think not everyone reacts the same way on every
(strong) photo… so its hard to tell – which
is memorable for you and which is
for the people itself.
We know each of us has someone or something
that inspires our life and work.
Can you tell us the true basis of your inspiration?
I am inspired by all kinds oh photography and movies.
Hell: a lot of movies inspired me 😉
my field of photography is vast;
I think I like “too many” good artist

What does fashion mean to you?
It keeps you warm, it keeps you covered,
but foremost: I gives you a way of expressing yourself.
What’s the craziest/funniest thing
that ever happened in one of your shoots?
I met a lot of funny and interesting people
all around the world, I had some really good moments
its hard to tell which is “the one” …
so basically I thank everyone for giving me
the chance to shoot with him/her.
What photographers from the past or present
have influenced you the most?
David du Chemin, Kesler Tran
What has been your favorite photo location or session?
My old flat. Oh yes; I miss it a lot

What type of cameras do you shoot with?
I shoot with 5DM2, 5DM3, 6D and PhaseOne
with a 60MP digiback
If you had to choose one lens
which one would it be and why?
A 35mm. I use it in 95% of all my shots.
It gives you the feel and look of a 50mm
but adds story in the background –
when you shoot horizontal.
Do you prefer flash or daylight?
Neither. Motifs seeks the type of light.

What is your favorite photography accessory,
other than your camera?
A CD/DVD in front of the lens –
gives you light leaks / flares.
To think about this –
I should use it way more often^^
How important is Photoshop in your final images?
Between 5 and 95%. depends on motive and on the skin 😉
How important is a website and
social media for your business?
I think I earned a dollar or two because
of my facebook-being. But I, for myself,
think a homepage is more important that FB …
it’s your book. Basically it you
and what you stand for …

Do you listen to music while doing your shooting?
If so, what are you playing right now?
Yes. I listen to music. For me and the model.
To get in the mood. The Weeknd or Kalkbrenner.
What advice do you have for somebody
who wants to pursue photography?
Focus! Do this and nothing else.
What lies ahead for you?
A long night with a lot of work :/

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

MARTIN STRAUSS
Martin Strauss is a German fashion and
model photographer who was based in Berlin
at the time of this interview.
His photographic work combines fashion,
sensual portraits and creative lighting,
with an emphasis on visual storytelling
and expressive model photography.
Website
www.straussfoto.de
500px Portfolio
500px.com/martinstrausz
This archival interview was originally
published in November 2015 and reflects
the photographer’s views, equipment
and professional circumstances
at that time.
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