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JULIEN BENHAMOU: WHEN PASSION BECOMES A PROFESSION
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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
How did you become a photographer?
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.
What did you bring to the world of dance and theatre which now plays a big part in your work? How did you start to collaborate with the Opera de Paris?
You collaborated with such ballet starts as Marie-Agnes Gillot, Marie-Claude Pietragalla, Benjamin Millepied, Aurélie Dupont and Ohad Naharin. Tell us about the most remarkable moments you lived within?
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!
The first photos which impressed me most were the photos of the fashion photographers: Mondino, Reversi, Lindbergh etc. They were so sophisticated – I adored them. However the fashion itself doesn’t interest me that much. As per now I love collaborate with the stylists and fashion designers because once they put on cloths on a model, the images get a sprectacular dimension.
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.
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