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Writer's pictureMALVIE Magazine

From Passion to Profession: Gökhan Topel on Building a Global Photography Career and Shaping the Future of Visual Storytelling



How did your journey as a professional photographer and director begin, and what motivated you to pursue this path in 2008?

I began my photography career during my university years, the moment I picked up my first camera. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and it was this passion that guided me into a professional path.


What inspired you to establish your own photography studio in 2010, and how has it shaped your career since then?

In 2009, I started working on film and TV show posters. These projects fueled my dream of owning a studio, and eventually, I had the opportunity to turn this dream into reality by establishing my own studio.


You’ve worked with a variety of international companies and magazines. How does collaborating with global brands differ from local projects?

International projects tend to draw more attention and appreciation compared to local ones, and they also bring greater respect to the work we do.


Can you tell us about one of your most memorable or challenging shoots, and what made it stand out?

One of the most challenging projects I’ve ever done involved building a pool in the middle of the studio. This pool held about 3 tons of water, and dismantling it overnight after the shoot was a very difficult process.


How do you balance your work between corporate, advertising, and fashion photography? Do you approach each genre differently?

Although my primary focus is on fashion photography, I’ve also worked on numerous corporate and commercial projects. Regardless of the type of project, I always approach each one with unique care and attention.



Istanbul and Budapest are two culturally rich cities—how have these locations influenced your creative process and artistic vision?

There are two cities that hold a special place in my heart. The architectural structures and cultural life of these cities inspire me in my artistic endeavors.


Your portfolio includes collaborations with major publications like Boxer Mag, H&M, and La Perla. How do you adapt your style to meet the vision of each brand or publication?

I have my own distinctive lighting style, and many clients and publications seek me out because of this. It allows me to add a unique touch to a predetermined concept, bringing out a refined visual style.


What role does storytelling play in your photography and directing work, especially when working in fashion and advertising?

In fashion photography, my focus tends to lean more toward the visual and artistic elements rather than storytelling. In directing, however, I translate the narrative provided by the script into a visual form, adapting to the needs of the project.


How has the industry changed since you started in 2008, and how have you adapted to these changes, particularly in fashion photography?

Despite the challenges posed by new technologies and the increasing competition from emerging talents in the industry, I’ve managed to carve out a space for myself by staying true to my artistic vision and style.


What tools, techniques, or technologies do you find most crucial in your work today, both as a photographer and a director?

I closely follow the advancements in technology, which continues to evolve rapidly. Currently, the most significant innovation in our industry is artificial intelligence, and I’m actively exploring it. I plan to execute a project related to AI in the near future.


What advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to break into the international fashion and advertising scene?

My advice to aspiring photographers is to shoot as much as possible, expand their experiences, and continuously refine their skills.


What future projects or ambitions are you excited about, and how do you see your work evolving over the next few years?

Soon, I’ll be embarking on a fashion film project, for which I’ve written the script myself. I’m also excited about pursuing my long-term goal of opening a second studio in Europe. With consistent effort, I believe I will achieve this ambition in the near future.


Retoucher: Mustafa Doğan Satır @mdogans

Photo Artist and Director: Gökhan Topel @gokhantopel

Director of Photography: Sergio Durmaz @sergiodurmaz

Makeup Artist: Gökhan Ciğeroğlu

Model: Geovanna Phaifer @lequipe agence | @vigor casting @phaiferg

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