Bieke Depoorter, a Royal Academy of Fine Arts graduate in Ghent, has quickly established herself as a distinguished photographer. At just 25, she joined Magnum Photos as a nominee and became a full member in 2016. With multiple accolades, including the Magnum Expression Award and the Larry Sultan Award, Depoorter is renowned for her profound connections with her subjects. Her works, such as “As It May Be” and “A.”, exemplify her dedication to exploring the complex dynamics between photographer and subject.
Depoorter’s approach to photographing people revolves around authenticity, trust, and mutual respect. She finds inspiration at night when people are more relaxed and genuine. The quiet moments before bed, when the day’s pretences fall away, particularly captivate her. She feels most connected to her subjects in these raw, honest instances.
For aspiring photographers, understanding the significance of these intimate moments can transform their practice. Here are my key takeaways from Depoorter’s experiences that can help you enhance your work:
1. Embrace Visibility: Depoorter challenges the notion that photographers are invisible observers. Instead, she believes in being present and building genuine relationships. The more visible and honest you are, the more your subjects will accept and trust you. This visibility fosters natural intimacy, making your presence feel less intrusive.
2. Be Honest and Open: Authenticity is crucial. Depoorter never pretends to be someone she’s not to gain trust. Instead, she shares her true self, fostering mutual respect. When photographing people, be yourself. Let your subjects see you as a person first, not just a photographer. This honesty helps build a deeper connection and trust.
3. Respect Boundaries: Not everyone will want to be photographed, and that’s okay. Depoorter emphasizes the importance of respecting refusals. If someone says no, accept it gracefully. However, if you sense hesitation rather than a firm no, spend time building rapport. Sometimes, initial reluctance can turn into willingness as trust develops.
4. Include the Environment: People’s surroundings can tell as much about them as their expressions. Depoorter often incorporates the environment in her portraits, capturing the essence of her subjects’ lives. Pay attention to the spaces your subjects inhabit. Include elements that speak to their personality and circumstances.
5. Trust Your Instincts: Depoorter relies heavily on her gut feelings, especially in potentially dangerous situations. If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave. Your safety is paramount; your intuition can guide you to avoid harmful scenarios.
6. Be Persistent and Direct: When seeking to photograph someone, be straightforward about your intentions. Depoorter advocates for directness, believing it saves time and clears any misunderstandings. Clearly explain your project and why you want to photograph them. This transparency helps in obtaining genuine consent and cooperation.
7. Engage in Continuous Reflection: Photography involves more than just capturing images; it requires understanding and reflecting on the process. Depoorter constantly questions the medium and her role in it. Engage in conversations about your doubts and challenges. This reflection can lead to growth and a deeper understanding of your craft.
8. Value Long-term Relationships: Sometimes, the connections you make through photography can extend beyond the project. Depoorter often finds it difficult to say goodbye to her subjects as genuine bonds form. Be prepared for this possibility and respect the relationships you build. They can be rewarding beyond the scope of your work.
Depoorter’s philosophy revolves around the idea that a photographer cannot be a mere fly on the wall. This perspective aligns with the existentialist view that our presence influences the reality we observe. Every interaction with a subject shapes the outcome. Depoorter believes in mutual trust and transparency, echoing Martin Buber’s concept of the “I-Thou” relationship, where genuine dialogue creates a space of mutual respect and understanding.
Including the environment in portraits ties into phenomenology, which emphasizes the importance of context in understanding human experience. By capturing the surroundings, you provide a richer narrative about your subject’s life, going beyond mere appearance.
Incorporating these principles into your practice can enhance the depth and authenticity of your photography with people. Seek to understand and connect with your subjects on a personal level. The goal is to capture images that tell a story and resonate with truth and humanity. Through honesty, respect, and reflection, your photographs can become powerful narratives that speak to the complexities of the human experience.