Kasper Fuglsang: Flowerful Kim
CALEB SCHAFTLEIN,
I’m Kasper. I Live and work out of Hamburg germany as a commercial photographer. I’m originally from Denmark where my passion for photography has started.
I never imagined that photography would become such a significant part of my life. It all started when I was young, growing up in a small town by the water. I was always drawn to the beauty of nature and found solace in exploring the play of light and shadow.
As I got older, my interest in photography grew, and I became obsessed with learning the art and technicalities of the craft. I would spend hours reading books and attend photo workshops, determined to learn. It was during this time that I realized the power of photography to freeze time and preserve moments.
After a few years in the US I started my masters in photography and moved to Germany. After finishing my masters in 2004 the work as a freelancer started. I started receiving requests for commissioned work and collaborations with established clients. With each new project, my style evolved, not always the way I planned but my portfolio grew. I found joy in capturing emotions and telling stories through my photographs.
As time went on, my work began to gain a little bit of recognition, and my photographs were exhibited in a few art galleries and later published in magazines. It was a surreal feeling to see my passion and work being appreciated by others.
Today, I am humbled and grateful to be able to make a living as a photographer. Photography has become my way of expressing myself and connecting with people on a different level.
Looking back, I realize that my journey into photography was fueled by my passion and curiosity. It serves me as a reminder and I’m grateful every day I can pick up my camera and freeze a moment.
To plan a photoshoot, I follow these steps:
First, I determine the objective of the photoshoot. I clarify the purpose, whether it's capturing product images, headshots, or fashion or beauty. Understanding the objective helps guide my planning process.
Next, I develop a concept if the clients doesn’t have one already or theme for the photoshoot. I consider the desired mood, style, and overall aesthetic I want to achieve. This helps me create a cohesive look for the images.
Setting a budget is crucial. I talk to the clients about the amount they are willing to spend on the photoshoot, which helps me allocate resources and make decisions about locations, props, and equipment.
Creating a shot list is essential. I make a list of specific shots I want to capture during the photoshoot. This ensures that I don't miss any important images and helps me stay organized.
Hiring the crew is the next step. I search for professional whose style aligns with my vision. I look at their knowledge, discuss expectations, timeline, and budget. Booking them well in advance secures their availability.
If specific locations come to mind, I obtain permission to shoot there. Some places may require permits or fees, so I check the regulations beforehand.
Determining the necessary equipment and props is important. I decide on cameras, lenses, lighting, and any props I'll need. Renting or purchasing the necessary items is essential.
Deciding on wardrobe and styling is another crucial aspect. I work with a stylist or collaborate closely with the subjects to ensure they are appropriately dressed for the photoshoot.
Creating a detailed timeline for the photoshoot day is essential. This includes call times, breaks, and the order of shots. It helps keep everyone organized and ensures a smooth flow of the session.
Communication is key. I share all the necessary details and expectations with the assistants, subjects, stylists, and any other team members involved. Regularly communicating and addressing any questions or concerns is important.
Preparing contingency plans is necessary. I have to be ready for unexpected circumstances like bad weather or other unforeseen. Having backup locations or alternative dates in mind avoids last-minute complications.
After the photoshoot, I review the images and select the best ones. I retouch or edit them as needed to achieve the desired final look.
Sure, after years of not really getting the traction I was looking for, struggling financially and slowly loosing hope I was asked to join a photographer in the Caribbean for a 2 week shoot on a boat. The first night I was in my hammock up on deck alone, looking at the stars in the sky covering St. Thomas thinking. Wow this is what dreams are made of….and now, it’s my job. It was one of those moments that made the hard times and struggles worth it all and ensuring me that I had found my path in life.
Oh yes there are many. Some for there style of photography, others as human beings to whom I had the pleasure to work with and some for teaching me never to give up.
Names like David lachapelle, Annie Leibovitz, Anatol Kotte, Marc Seliger etc.
Well one of the tough ones is always the weather on various locations. How to set up your own lights in case the weather doesn’t play along. Making a sunny summer look on a cloudy day.
Also the key of “feeling” the people you get in front of the camera can be a challenge. Some are shy some with a lot of power and some need guidance. All trades you need to watch for so every individual feels appreciated and part of the work that’s being done. Getting 100% from every one is key.
So it’s not one singular situation but recurring obstacles that needs to be approached by the shoots. But that’s also what make the job so variable and interesting.
To learn the craft first. To do a few good pictures here and there is fine, but if you want to be successful you need to understand that photography is a craftsmanship and it consists of many trades. And you need to learn them before setting sails as a photographer.
Omg there are soooo many. Every picture is a little piece of my soul and my heart so it’s hard to say. Some have great value to me because of the story behind the picture and others because of the actual work it took to create. But here are some.
You can stay connected with me on Instagram at instagram.com/kasperfuglsangphotography
Website: kasperfuglsang.com
Credits:
Prod: Leonie Lohmann @leonielomann
Photographer: Kasper Fuglasang @kasperfuglsangphotography
MUA: Bernadett Neidhardt @bernadettneidhardt
Stylist: Katharina Augenblicke @goldene.augenblicke
