Cem Talu

Today, Cem Talu is one of Turkey's most successful portrait, fashion and commercial photographers and collaborates with major publications and brands. However, this wasn't the career he initially envisioned. "Until I was 24, if you had told me I would be a photographer, I would have laughed at you," he admits.

Cem was born in Ankara, Turkey, and his family expected him to follow his father into academia. He studied engineering at university, followed by a master's degree in business administration, and ultimately a PhD in strategic management. However, during his time as a student, he discovered his passion for photography, appreciating both its technical and creative aspects.

Cem says his most memorable celebrity shoot to date was his experience with American actor John Malkovich. "A newspaper contacted me, asking if I would like to shoot him during his visit to Turkey, but mentioned that I would only have half an hour," he says. "When I met his manager, we hit it off, and that half-hour shoot extended to three days. It just goes to show that you never know what will happen, but you must always be prepared, like a hunter."

In addition to fashion, portraiture and advertising, Cem's portfolio includes commercial shoots, video clips and documentaries. "I consider myself more of a photographer than a videographer," he says. "However, with the progression of social media, I find myself shooting more reels. This allows me to act like a photographer and shoot solo while creating video visuals."

Cem also enjoys exploring new techniques for creating images and videos. He has experimented with technologies such as 360° video and infrared timelapse video. "I'm always looking for new ways to stay excited," he explains. "I don't like limiting myself to just one area of expertise – I have to try new things and learn as much as I can.

"Photography is great in that sense, because it involves a lot of technology. If someone asks me to try a 360° camera, for example, I respond with, 'OK, give it to me!' I'm also drawn to unique technologies. If everyone was shooting 360° videos, I wouldn't be as excited about it. But when I get the opportunity to try out cutting-edge technology, I embrace it."

What makes a strong image?

"A photographer who shot famous pictures of Marilyn Monroe was asked to shoot the actress Lindsay Lohan in exactly the same way, but he couldn't do it. Similarly, during my career, I realised good work should be almost impossible to copy, even when the same subject is being shot by the same photographer. So, for me, a strong image is one that cannot be replicated."

Do you plan to shoot more video in the future?

"Yes, I do. With advancing technology, shooting video has become easier and more enjoyable. In the past, when I directed commercials, I had limited creative opportunities due to the large crews involved. However, now, even on big projects, I can act as a solo filmmaker. Having more freedom to explore my creativity during shoots is a big advantage."

What do you aim to achieve in your work?

"I believe that uniqueness is what gives value to an image. When I shoot, I strive to communicate with the people I photograph and capture something different from what others have done. The photo must reflect the personality of the subject but also excite me. It has to be something unique that makes people stop and look at it."

"To succeed as a photographer, you need patience and persistence. Once you establish yourself in the industry, you become an expert in your field, and that's where the fun begins. Along the way, you may get distracted by other things, but you must stay determined and find your own path. Nowadays, being a photographer isn't just about photography – you also need to be knowledgeable about video."

Instagram: @cemtalu

YouTube: @talucem