Who?
I was born in Samsun, north of Turkey in 1981. Around 10-11 I was fascinated with the idea of freezing time and and started experimenting with a point and shoot camera that my family owned. I got my first professional camera when I was 18 and that way learned how to control time and light in my frames.
Back in those days, I was visiting a photo club in the city which made me realise I should find my own path. Around 2000’s I discovered Magnum Photo Agency and started learning more about documentary and street photography. In 2008 I learned about In-public and got involved with street photography more consciously. In 2013, established Agence Le Journal with friends and started creating images for the international press. I am still working for the agency.
Where?
I have been living by the sea for the most of my life, I think I feel better when I am in the coast. Most of my work were created there. I mostly like to capture the timeless moments and emotions of the people. I also do mind the background while photographing. I usually choose to work clean and easy to read backgrounds.
When?
When I’m awake I like to observe things that are looking interesting to me. It is something like a child playing with his favourite toy without getting bored and I like to photograph those interesting moments. Because it is so accessible, I use my iPhone a lot to record my work. Depending on the subject, I like to experiment with different formats too including panorama, medium format, 35mm and so on.
What?
When I am walking in the streets, things suddenly transform into stage in a novel that I like to capture. But I mostly wait for the big surprise that I’ll face with excitement. I am always with a clear mind and like to be in the moment. I usually don’t like to take staged shots, I find it more logical to capture natural things spontaneously.
Why?
I feel totally free when I’m with my camera and my bag. I find photography the most athletic form of expression.
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