This is an interview with photographer Maciej Kucia (AVGVST), whose work has appeared in the fashion pages of top magazines such as GQ JAPAN, as well as music videos and TV commercials. Following on from part 1 and 2, we spoke to him about his approach to fashion photography.


--What does fashion mean to you, Maciej?

I like it as a communication tool. In the sense that the clothes you choose can show others what kind of person you are.

I have too many favorite brands to list. When it comes to Japanese brands, I particularly like Yohji Yamamoto. Don't you think people of all ages look attractive in his clothes?

I also have so many N. HOOLYWOOD items that I can't fit them all in my closet! I love how they're incredibly comfortable and perfect for the outdoors, yet still look so sophisticated. On days when I want to enjoy simple yet sophisticated fashion, I often choose Yaeca.

--What is the relationship between fashion and photography?

Perhaps the presence of each enhances their respective appeal. This is true not only for fashion photography, which tells a story, but also for portraits. The story that emerges changes depending on how the composition, lighting, set, texture, and everything else interact. And that's why fashion photography has the power to convey the brand's philosophy and background.

--I heard you have a deep knowledge of music, Maciej. What do you think about the relationship between music and fashion?

After studying at music school for 10 years, I worked as a composer for a while. During that time, I observed people listening to music of various genres, and I feel that music, fashion, and all other arts have something in common in that they influence people's tastes. For example, people with the same musical tastes often have similar lifestyles. Even if they work in different professions, they may have similar ways of thinking and like similar things.

--Do you think your experience working in the music industry has had any influence on your work as a photographer?

I don't think so. But I do think that experience is definitely one of the elements that shaped my personality.

Another thing that had a big influence on me was physics. I majored in physics at university because I wanted to learn the fundamentals of universal human nature, and I feel that this has deepened my understanding of everything around me. It's also helped me think about how to achieve the results I want when I want to absorb new things or improve myself.

--Finally, could you tell me about your future goals?

There are many brands I want to collaborate with, but I haven't decided what I want to be. I value the encounters I have had in life, and I will continue to do so in the future. So I want to always be open-minded when I come across something I like. Because life is so much more fun that way, right?