Philip Camil, a passionate and experienced photographer, invites us to discover his rich and varied universe. Between portraits, artistic series and unique collaborations, he shares his career, his inspirations and his deeply human approach to photography. Through his photographs, he highlights the uniqueness of each model, always seeking to capture authenticity and emotion.
How did you start your photography career? Was there a moment or a project that prompted you to start?
As a chromist, I have worked almost all my career on the photos of others: advertising agencies, publishers, printers, VAD or manufacturers... Then as a manufacturing manager, I happened to have to (re) pick up the camera to make up for the iconographic failures of our suppliers.
I started portrait photography quite fortuitously, after a social plan in the company, where many of my colleagues asked me to have a “nice” photo on their resume. On this occasion, I realized that a good portrait did not depend on the combination of good exposure, good framing, good light but above all on the trust and complicity that must be established between the photographer and his subject. Since then, I have devoted myself almost exclusively to model photography.
Your work is very varied, ranging from portraits to more artistic styles. What led you to explore these themes?
I like variety, I like to experience new things. Even in my series, such as those of “Madonnas” or “Violons d'Ingres”, I try to highlight each personality. Each model is unique, with its life path, its attractions, its reluctance. Each shoot must reflect this originality, and that is what makes the major difference between the model and the model for me.
What inspires you the most about photography?
What inspires me are the people! I am happy to produce beautiful images, but even more so to have very positive feedback from the models. After sending the finalized photos to one of them, I received this magnificent reaction in return: “I usually can't bear to see myself in photos, but for once, I think I am beautiful...” What better reward for a photographer?
Which of the styles you practice do you prefer and why?
There are obviously photo styles for which I don't feel I have a particular affinity. I found a simple solution: I never get involved in projects that I don't like! I never imposed a theme on the model during my collaborations. It is always chosen by mutual agreement according to our respective tastes. There is no photo style that is superior to another, from “simple” portraits to artistic or experimental nudes.
I remember the surprising reaction of a model I had worked with for years, who I asked to choose the subject of a session as she pleased.” I Would Like a Portrait Session ”. She explained to me:” In this kind of shooting, I play a character. It is not me that I see. On the other hand, I still have a lot of difficulty seeing myself as I am. I think I am ready now to try the portrait... ”
How do you approach lingerie photo shoots?
I often say that lingerie or nude photography is a delicate art in every sense of the word. I met models who told me right away that they did not want to take photos of this style. And others who wanted to try the experience from our first session. I totally respect both positions! Whatever session we are considering, we discuss it well in advance, with the precondition that at no time should the model feel obliged to do anything.
You have participated in numerous exhibitions. How have these experiences enriched your practice?
An exhibition is always an adventure. I am not looking to sell my work, I am not looking for recognition. It is a happy opportunity to confront a work with a new audience, with spontaneous reactions, sometimes flattering or surprising, but always very relevant. What touches me is the feeling, the emotion that a photo can arouse.
Can you share an anecdote or a memorable memory?
During a recent exhibition, I had the opportunity to chat with a mature couple, both artists. They told me that they had noticed a dramatic change in their daughter after only these few photo sessions with me: more confident, more smiling, and even a physical change with a straighter, more open posture... What a great victory!
How do you build a relationship of trust with your models?
Trust is indeed the key word! The contact is made with a courteous and structured message, never a friendly one, that explains my work. A link to my online book. A standard contract that I offer systematically, with citation of legal texts governing image rights and intellectual property.
During the session, take the time to settle in. Reserve a place where the model can prepare in complete privacy. And Don't Take Yourself Too Seriously! My shootings are always very relaxed and joyful, it is essential that it remains a moment of exchange and pleasure for the two protagonists...
What advice would you give a model to feel comfortable?
During a first contact, always ask for a link to an official book and require the signing of a contract. Once reassured about the good intentions and the professionalism of the photographer, relax! I am not asking the model to “pose”, but to “let go”! Move, try things, make mistakes, have fun: the instinctive gesture is always right. The last shots of a session are often the most interesting: you have to give time to set up a rhythm and communication between the two protagonists.
What artists or photographers influence your work?
I am looking for my inspiration in all areas. The great masters of photography: Cartier-Bresson, Doisneau, Doisneau, Doisneau, Ronis, Jonvelle and so many others... I am also inspired by the great works of historical painting and sculpture, Rodin, Maillol, Maillol, Renoir, Bonnard and more particularly Jean-Jacques Henner, a painter unjustly forgotten today whose very “photographic” treatment of light and color I appreciate.
What are your upcoming projects?
I am currently working on a series of “Violons d'Ingres”, in reference to the famous Man Ray Shot. My aim is to play on the mirror effect from one side of the back to the other to obtain perfect symmetry, while maintaining the particularities of each model. This theme is particularly popular with models, because as one of them pointed out to me, we have no idea what our back looks like! I think I will be able to publish around thirty of them very soon, during an exhibition whose location is still to be determined.
If you could collaborate with a specific artist or organization, who would you choose?
I have already had the opportunity to collaborate on projects with two photographers, with my friend Mélanie Malfoy, a very talented young photographer. Our meetings are always very enriching. As for presenting my work in major institutions dedicated to contemporary photography, I am absolutely not opposed to it and I would be sincerely honored. I am absolutely not obsessed with it...
Philip Camil — Photographer • Lille/Tournai/Valenciennes
Portfolio: philipcamil.bookfolio.fr
