His images where light flirts with darkness mesmerise the eye of beholder. The sculptural lines and shapes of professional dancers shot by Julien Benhamou bring as to the enchanted world of dreams where the perfection reigns. The official photographer of the Opera of Paris seems to catch the time and apprehend the movement, no matter how elusive it could be. Here is Julien Benhamou exclusive for FOXYLAB NEW YORK
I got my first camera as a present when I was 12. Right away this object passioned me. I used to be quite timid and the photography enabled me to interact with people. Thus, the decision came immediately: this hobby would become my profession. I studied photography and later on started to work as an assistant in the art industry, then in the ad and fashion. After these experiences I became an independent photographer.
I saw my first ballet very late, around 25 year old. It was a revelation. After that Rolland Petit show, I decided to work with dancers. The Opera of Paris accepted the idea of me coming few times in rehearsal and my project was shown in Ministère de la Culture. The feedback was favourable, they signed me as an official photographer. That’s how it started.
I had a good chance to get contacted by the media and public institutions who proposed me to shoot the stars of dance. I remember that the charisma and photogenicy of Marie Agnes Gillot impressed me a lot. All images were amazing, no matter what she was doing in front of the camera. I remember also the shoots with François Alu and Leonore Baulac – lot of fun and creativity!
Carvage of course, but Rembrandt and Vermeer as well. For photography, it was Annie Leibowitz and Herb Ritts.
I believe that in my work I associate beauty with the body perfection: both within the lines, the muscles shapes and also in the graceful way the dances move.
It is not something I’ve predetermined, but I think all my works are about poetry of beauty, they show a world were everting is perfect, like a fantasy.
I have been and I am still working on a video documentary through this year. I’m thinking about publishing another book by the end of 2022. I will also participate in the Photo Festival in Moncoutant-sur-Sevre with 20 prints in big format from July to October 2022, and I will keep on collaborating with dancers.
