Oliver Schwarzwald is a storyteller and photographer, believing that "different messages need different executions." Born in Gdansk, and now resident in Hamburg, his often fantastical and surreal tales are composed with a precise and meticulous attention to detail. His series, 'Animals vs Jewelry', was shortlisted in the 2017 Sony World Photography Awards.
Hi Oliver, please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your photography
Hi there, I'm Oliver Schwarzwald from Hamburg. I was born 1973 in Danzig. I am married with two children. I've been a professional photographer since 1998. I started photography when I was 13 years old. Since this time I have always interested in both photography and cooking. By chance, one day I met a food photographer and started an internship. After some years as an assistant, I started to work in 1998 as a photographer focused on food. Some years ago I moved on to making still life and conceptual works.
Why photography? What does the medium mean to you?
I've always bee interested in conceptual art work. Due to the fact that I'm the worst illustrator on the earth, I was looking for a tool to bring my ideas alive. Photography provided that for me. For me, photography is the best way to visualize my ideas. To create something that makes people think or even feel involved in a project.
My latest project 'One Euro Sculptures' is a good example. It's a charity project which questions 99 cents products and the main issue of whether we need to consume to be an accepted member of society. People can help by donating money to any charity organisation they like. For their commitment, people get a numbered and signed print. And this is what photography means to me. You can do beautiful things, you can use it as your voice. Photography can help.
Remind us of your successful series 'Animals vs Jewelry'. What has been the reaction to the work?
The reaction was quite cool. I think it had an effect on my commissions abroad. The exhibitions around the world made me very happy.
Do you have a photographic philosophy?
Every single project has its own rules. Prepare well. Stay hungry. And never forget your message!
What has been your most memorable shoot or location, and why?
My time working in Paris for Figaro from 2006 - 2008 was great. We always shot at top locations. But the apartment of Phillippe Model was one of the best places ever. The location is near the place Vendome, it was so stunning for me. I love Paris for its elegance.
Where in the world are you and what's next for you?
I am in Hamburg, my favorite place. My commissions take me to London, Warsaw, and Paris. This keeps me busy but I try to follow up with my personal work. One of my new series is about plastic in nature. I am also planning an exhibition in London to raise some money for the 'One Euro Sculpture Project'. In London, I have a great support with through Subject Matter Art.
oliverschwarzwald.de
worldphoto.org/swpa
