I’m always fascinated by the art of photography. I almost adore photographers- both upcoming and established ones, that know their onions. When I first saw Steeve’s art, I was really stunned. No, to say I was stunned is an understatement. Steeve Aukingso Photography as a brand might not ring a bell just yet, but I am happy to announce that this young man knows how to play his cards well, because he sees the field of photography as a business not just for pleasure. Read what he means in this short interview, but first enjoy his art and tell me what you think!
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m 25 years old, I’m French and originally from Togo and Kenya. I grew up between Africa and Europe. My professional photographer career was launch when I was 20 years old.
When did you venture into photography full time? What do you think about the profession? Or is it just a hobby for you?
The photography was immediately full time because it was never a hobby for me. Photography is a passion but it requires time, motivation and skills from the inside. I’m so involved in my photography that it has to become my profession.
What is unique about your photography?
When I take my camera, I put in place the model, I guide her. My goal isn’t only to make something unique but to do something impressive, according to the resources I have. I love to attach importance in the details.
Tell us more about your style of photography. For example, do you prefer to work with natural light or studio light? Do you prefer to shoot portraits or moving image?
At least, my photography is turned to fashion and beauty… But I have a very great sensibility with the beauty domain. I like faces… I like good looking men and beautiful women (laugh). Currently, my photography takes place in studio, most of the time… I like to work outside too, but in order to have good results, I have to have many resources (material like administrative side). My actual clients and contracts don’t put these resources at my disposal and can’t allow me to do this. I like faces very much. That is why I spend a lot of time on portraits post-treatment.
What camera do you work with and why?
I have a Canon 7D and a Nikon 3DS. The first one allows me respond to daily requirements. The second one (the one I adore), coupled at a great fixed focus, allows me to honor contracts with excellent quality required for print, model booking, personal projects…
You have worked with a lot of amazing people. Which of your work would you say has been most thrilling and fulfilling and why?
Yes, I had chance to have some people who trust my work and my style… But, for the moment, I don’t feel full blown yet. I consider myself like a person who has so many things to write but doesn’t have enough pages…
Will you say the business of photography is as lucrative as it is glamorous?
(laughs…) Frankly I’m not going to complain. People give me many projects, I can live thanks to these.
Who is your favourite photographer?
I love Grace Jones, she worked with Jean Paul Goude…Today, I love Jean Paul Goude!
Five years from now, where do you envision yourself to be?
In 5 years I see myself between Africa, Europe and the USA in advertising and be recognized as one of the photographers that put more value in the ethnic beauty. I’d also like to work with the most prestigious magazines and other modeling agencies and designers who appreciate my style.
What is your advice to other young up coming photographers?
Fury! passion! must! passion! intransigent! Put a heart of the creation on each photo …It’s a detail but you always have next to you a person who believes in you and is totally dedicated (I thank my sister)…. especially in the beginning, It is important.
Thank you for your time!
Follow Steeve’s work on Twitter: @steeveaukingso
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/photographemode Website: http://steeveaukingso.fr/
