Since 2006, Stephan Opitz has been teaching himself photography. “In the beginning I preferred to shoot architecture where I could learn a lot about picture composition.” He is a geologist and often takes his camera when he goes on another field trip. To him it is especially important “to capture the soul of the picture. Pictures are interesting and exciting when they tell a story and awaken emotions.”

Black and white Photography concentrates on the basic image

Black-and-white photography is Stephan Opitz’ favorite genre. Colours easily distract from the core of the captured image whereas a monochrome picture is reduced to contrast, composition, light, structure and form. This is one reason why he initially concentrated on architecture. Clear structures and forms dominate his style. Stephan Opitz is one of those photographers that think a lot about the picture itself and its composition before actually taking it. Usually he likes to come back several times to a location to catch the right light for one of his works. On his travels however he couldn’t always do that so he learned to improvise. When I asked for his inspiration, he said: “That really depends: Sometimes it’s pictures of other photographers, but also my surroundings, sometimes light or a certain situation. Right now I prefer work series on a certain topic.”

His Scientific Excursions bring him to the Most Remote Areas of the World.

Stephan Opitz likes to travel. Thankfully he is a geologist and his field trips allow him to travel to uncommon territories. In his works he shows China and its people from a different angle than most people can imagine. His scientific work gave him the unique possibility to experience truly incredible moments among Tibetan people. What he found there was one of his most impressive experiences yet. He encountered strong people who found a way to survive in the most impossible circumstances. You can see these pictures in his current exhibition “From Tibet to Shanghai – Constrasts from the central empire (China)”. The exhibition will run until 2nd August 2013.

All pictures from his exhibition can be purchased through photocircle. Stephan Opitz would be happy to know that his pictures help to support a good cause.