GLAM / AMOUR

In the ethereal realm where imagination dances with light, where moments are immortalized in pixels, there exists a luminary whose lens captures the very essence of existence.

Oswald Vas, a name synonymous with visual storytelling, transcends the boundaries of conventional photography, weaving narratives that transcend time and space.

Join Glam/Amour as we embark on a journey through the lens of this visionary artist, exploring the depths of his creativity, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and the indelible mark he leaves on the canvas of our collective consciousness.

A Genesis of Creativity

There’s a whisper of destiny in the winds of inspiration, a gentle nudge from the universe guiding us towards our true calling. For Oswald Vas, the journey into the enchanting world of photography began with a serendipitous encounter, a fashion show and photoshoot televised. Enthralled by the interplay of light and shadow, the alchemy of visual storytelling, he embarked on a quest to unravel the mysteries of this captivating art form.

“It felt like I was a traveler on a new planet, documenting its beauty for the first time,” Oswald reminisces, his eyes alight with passion. Armed with nothing but a borrowed camera and boundless curiosity, he ventured forth, exploring the world with fresh eyes and a voracious appetite for discovery.

Crafting a Signature Style

In the crucible of experience and experimentation, Oswald forged his unique style, a tapestry woven from threads of intuition and innovation. While he refuses to be confined by the constraints of a single genre, his passion for storytelling serves as the guiding light illuminating his path.

“Whether it’s a photojournalistic piece capturing a social issue or a portrait that reveals a person’s soul, I’m always seeking to capture a story, a moment in time, an emotion that resonates with the viewer,” Oswald explains, his words imbued with a profound sense of purpose.

When asked which genre of photography he preferred to specialize in, and what was the most rewarding aspect of that genre; he said “Even after 15+ years, I haven’t narrowed down to a single genre. The beauty of photography lies in its vastness! I find myself drawn to photojournalism, capturing the essence of a story through a single image. But I also love the intimacy of portrait photography, the challenge of coaxing out someone’s true essence in a frame. Food photography lets me explore the visual language of taste and texture. Nature and wildlife have always captivated me, and I find immense satisfaction in capturing their raw beauty.  Even street photography holds a unique charm – the fleeting moments, the unexpected encounters.

Perhaps my genre isn’t a specific category, but rather the approach I bring to every subject: Storytelling. That’s what I find most rewarding about photography – the ability to connect with people through the power of an image.“

Evoking Luxury and Sophistication

For Oswald, photography is not merely a means of capturing reality; it’s a portal to a realm where luxury and sophistication reign supreme. In his masterful compositions, every element is meticulously curated to evoke a sense of opulence and refinement.

“Capturing luxury and sophistication in photography extends beyond the subject matter; it involves crafting an immersive experience,” Oswald elaborates. Whether it’s the gentle flicker of candlelight or the nuanced blend of textures and hues, each photograph serves as a sensory journey, beckoning the viewer into a realm of refined opulence.

“When it comes to food photography, it’s not merely about the culinary creations on display; it’s about weaving a narrative through the lens,” Oswald elucidates. He delves into the essential components he meticulously considers in his artistic process.

Ultimately, it’s about creating a Sense of Occasion.  He wants the viewer to imagine themselves enjoying this beautiful dish, the taste of a decadent explosion in their mouth, the setting one of refined pleasure.

Overcoming Adversity

Every artist’s journey is fraught with challenges, obstacles that test the limits of their creativity and resilience. For Oswald, one such trial came in the form of a daunting food photography project for a prestigious hotel. Despite initial setbacks, he emerged stronger and wiser, his resolve unshaken by adversity.

“It highlighted the importance of thorough pre-production communication,” Oswald reflects, his gaze unwavering. “Now, I always ask detailed questions about the food, desired aesthetics, and any specific requirements.”

But an adversity that almost all photographers face in todays day and age is the emergence of AI and AI tools.

Embracing the Digital Age

In an era dominated by digital media and AI, Oswald remains steadfast in his commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity. While he acknowledges the ubiquity of smartphones and AI-generated imagery, he believes that true artistry transcends technological innovation.

“The human element and the ability to translate experience and emotion into a photograph is what truly sets professional photographers apart,” Oswald asserts, his conviction unwavering. “The digital age has definitely transformed the world of photography making it a more crowded landscape and standing out online requires a more strategic approach.

While phone cameras offer impressive quality and editing options, they can’t replicate the experience and expertise of a professional photographer. However, amidst the cacophony of online images, grabbing attention has become even more challenging. This situation poses both challenges and thrilling opportunities. It urges photographers to hone their craft, cultivate a distinctive style, and discover inventive methods to connect with online audiences.

As for AI, it’s a fascinating development.  While AI can generate impressive images, it lacks the human touch, the ability to tell a story or capture the essence of a scene happening in the very moment.  

The rise of AI might impact certain aspects of the industry, but it can never replicate the soulful resonance of a truly inspired photograph.“

A Vision for the Future

As Oswald gazes towards the horizon, his eyes gleaming with anticipation, he speaks of future projects and collaborations that promise to push the boundaries of his creative expression. From immersive storytelling experiences to forays into the realm of videography, he remains unwavering in his commitment to innovation and excellence.

Oswald recently had the opportunity to expand his skillset by working on a video project for Lord Stow’s Bakery, a renowned Macanese establishment famous for their Portuguese egg tarts.  They wanted to create a compilation video for their Annual Chinese New Year dinner, a way to express appreciation to their staff for their dedication during the pandemic.

Although he had limited videography and editing experience, Oswald didn’t consider himself a Professional. However, he saw this as a chance to challenge himself and exceed client expectations. When the finished production and the video was premiered three-weeks later, in the presence of a full staff and management, the atmosphere was electric as the staff cheered on enthusiastically, recognizing themselves and their peers on screen. Meanwhile, the owner was overwhelmed with emotion, witnessing the culmination of their collective efforts. Which only confirmed that he had delivered something truly meaningful.  

This experience highlighted the Power of Visual Storytelling, not just in photography, but in other mediums as well.

Looking ahead, Oswald actively seeks collaborations that will allow him to explore new creative avenues.  He is particularly drawn to projects that combine photography with storytelling, perhaps even venturing more into the realm of videography.  

“I’m always eager to learn and grow as an artist,” Oswald declares, his voice resounding with passion. “These collaborations will not only expand my artistic horizons but also allow me to create impactful work that resonates with audiences on a profound level.”

Behind the Lens: A Candid Conversation with Oswald Vas

Glam/Amour sat down with Oswald to dig deeper into the artist behind the lens, on a personal level.

GA: Oswald, if you could capture a photograph of anyone or anything, without any limitations, what would it be and why?

OV: That’s a fantastic question and a difficult one to answer as there are several things I would like to photograph in this lifetime!  While capturing the Pope three times was an incredible honor, my dream photography project would be a multifaceted one.

Firstly, as a passionate storyteller, I’d love to collaborate with a Charity Organization.  Traveling to underprivileged parts of the world, I would document the lives and stories of those communities through photography.  Showcasing their struggles and resilience would not only raise awareness but also capture the strength of the human spirit.

Secondly, the Natural World continues to inspire me.  Imagine having the resources to dedicate myself to photographing our planet in all its diversity – from majestic wildlife to breathtaking landscapes to the hidden beauty of the underwater world.  These images would be a celebration of Earth’s wonders and a call to action for conservation.

And lastly, as a massive football fan capturing a Portrait of Football Legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Jose Mourinho or David Beckham would be a thrill!

GA: Wow … Your choice of work is definitely inspired by emotion and these choices are steeped in it! But from your past work if you could select three images that you are extremely proud of; which would they be and why?

OV: Oh dear! That’s a tough question but if I had to choose … the first would be – The deer’s at Nara park, Japan

I was capturing the deer in the park when I witnessed a tender moment between two deer.  One deer nuzzled and licked the neck of the other, a gesture that struck me as incredibly affectionate.  Instinctively, I knew I had captured something special. Beyond the technical aspects of the photo, it resonated with me on a deeper level.  The image embodied the affection and tenderness I shared with my girlfriend (now wife) in our relationship.  In fact, on my next trip, I presented this photo to her as a Valentine’s Day gift.  It became a symbol of our connection, a constant reminder of the love we share.

The second one would have to be – Andrei Iwanowitsch

One of the last remaining survivors of the Buchenwald concentration camp. At 98, his zest for life and positive outlook are truly remarkable. His story is documented in the film “Ja, Andrei Iwanowitsch: Film About a Life,” which details his harrowing journey from a 15-year-old deportee to a survivor who rebuilt his life after unimaginable loss.

Lastly, I would choose – Mona-Geisha

Strolling through the enchanting labyrinth of Kyoto’s Gion district, the narrow streets and hidden alleyways exude a captivating aura, suffused with the gentle radiance of muted orange hues. I had been wandering for what seemed like hours, yearning for that moment, and then, suddenly, there she was. At the end of an alleyway, a geisha approaching in my direction. As she drew nearer, our eyes met, and a smile passed between us. Through the universal language of gestures, I humbly asked for permission to capture her essence in a photograph. In that ephemeral instance, she agreed, and I had only a fleeting few seconds to immortalize her presence before she gracefully departed, her elaborate robe swaying in harmony with the rhythmic cadence of her wooden clogs against the cobbled stones.  In this brief yet profound connection, the very essence of my subject was immortalized in that image that I’ve come to fondly call ‘Mona Geisha.’ It is a moment that will forever remain etched in my heart and soul, a testament to the enduring beauty and grace of a culture that lives on through these extraordinary women.

A Legacy of Inspiration

As we thank Oswald Vas – the maestro behind the lens, for his time and sharing his art with us, we are left with a profound sense of awe and admiration. His photographs, more than mere images, are windows into the soul of humanity, reflections of our shared hopes, dreams, and aspirations.

Oswald’s legacy is not confined to the frames of his photographs; it transcends the boundaries of time and space, inspiring generations to come to see the world through the lens of possibility, to embrace the beauty that surrounds us, and to never cease in the pursuit of their dreams.

“Ultimately, I hope my photographs evoke emotions and inspire viewers to see the world in a new light.  Whether it’s a captivating portrait, a glimpse into a different culture, or a breathtaking landscape, I want my work to spark curiosity and ignite a sense of wonder.

I want viewers to connect with the emotions, the stories, and the beauty I find in the world around me.  Perhaps my work will inspire them to explore their own creativity, to travel to new destinations, or simply to appreciate the everyday moments that often go unnoticed.” shares Oswald.

In the tapestry of existence, Oswald Vas is a luminary whose light will continue to illuminate our path long after the shutter closes and the final frame fades into eternity.

To view more of Oswald Vas and his creative genius – CLICK HERE