Yves Sochi is a Director and Photographer based in Seoul, Korea. He beautifully scouts locations, shoots in his own experimental style, and curates a final photo set of a one-of-a-kind story. Taking a moment to ask him a couple of questions while seeing an ambition, and artistry that will hopefully inspire all of us, to develop and capture our own city’s story in a new perspective. He found a rhythm to play with the light in his photographs, reminding us that we can all focus on nature’s abundant guidance with a thoughtful process…
What brought you to photography?
My love for films brought me into photography at an early age.
Your photos have very signature lighting – how do you achieve that?
When shooting, I’m usually limited on budget and time, so I’m constantly seeking natural lighting or improvising on whatever’s already available. Thankfully I’ve found a rhythm to this.
You are from Seoul, South Korea – in what ways does that city inspire you?
As an expat currently living in Seoul, I’m constantly inspired by the juxtaposition of the traditional and modern. In Seoul, you can wonder around an ancient Hanok Village one minute and walk through modern shopping district the next.
What book are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading “Painting with Light” by John Alton.
“When shooting, I’m usually limited on budget and time, so I’m constantly seeking natural lighting or improvising on whatever’s already available.”
Your photos have very minimalistic, though-provoking titles – how do you come up with them?
Thanks, I usually title them based on the overall mood of an image. I keep it short so it’s somewhat ambiguous and isn’t too much on the nose. I write them as though I’m writing chapter titles for a book.
City-life or Nature?
Definitely nature. Nothing beats a morning sunrise in a rural area.
What’s important to you when you take self-portraits?
Similar to other photos, the overall mood of what I’m trying to convey is most important with self-portraits.
“As an expat currently living in Seoul, I’m constantly inspired by the juxtaposition of the traditional and modern.”
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Focused, Adventurous, Humble
Favorite color?
Blue
Any words or quote that currently inspire you?
“Photography for me is not looking, it’s feeling. If you can’t feel what you’re looking at, then you’re never going to get others to feel anything when they look at your pictures.” — Don McCullin
www.instagram.com/yvessochi
Interview by Eva Davidová
