Interview with Throughlucaslens

The Magazine For Photographers
Feb 12
3 min read

Updated: Mar 18

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I'm Luca, a photographer from Zurich, Switzerland. My passion for photography has led me across Asia, from Bangkok to Hong Kong, Myanmar, Taiwan, and beyond. Growing up in a small town, I developed a deep appreciation for the finer details, a perspective that continues to shape my work today.

How did you first get into street photography? Was it love at first click?

It was truly love at first shot. I began pursuing photography in 2019, building on my background in graphics and over a decade of experience in marketing. My aim is to keep exploring the world, capturing its diverse, beautiful, and sometimes raw stories through my lens.

What’s the wildest or most unexpected thing you’ve captured on the street?

One summer night in Hong Kong during typhoon season, I was out on the streets taking photos when suddenly, a heavy rainstorm hit. The atmosphere changed instantly, and the mood became electric. It was a unique moment, capturing the city’s energy and raw beauty through the rain—it felt like the perfect setting for some of my best shots.

How do you decide where to go and shoot? Is it planned or more spur-of-the-moment?

Both. I do plan a lot when I travel, carefully mapping out the places I want to shoot. But at the same time, a lot of it is spontaneous—I let my creativity flow and capture moments as they come.

What’s your go-to gear setup when you hit the streets?

My go-to setup is the Sony A7 IV paired with a 24-105mm lens.

Do you have a favourite city or spot for street photography? Why?

My new favorite city for photography is definitely Cairo, Egypt. Every corner holds a surprise; the city thrives on its contrasts, with centuries-old buildings, streets, and traditions.

Do you prefer shooting in the chaos of a busy street or in quieter, more intimate spaces?

It depends—I enjoy both.

How do you approach people on the street if you want to include them in your shots?

I simply ask if it's okay to take a picture—nothing special. But sometimes, it does take a bit of confidence.

Have you ever had a shoot that just didn’t go as planned?

Yes, many times. Whether it's the surroundings, the people, the light, the weather, or countless other factors, there are a lot of influences that can throw off a shot.

What’s your take on the ethics of street photography—like shooting strangers without asking?

I mostly compose my photos with people who are unrecognizable in the frame. However, I do ask someone if they’re the main subject of the shot.

Are there any tricks you use to stay unnoticed when shooting?

You have to blend into the street and become part of the scene. Of course, it also takes time and patience—sometimes I wait for up to an hour to capture the perfect moment.

What role does storytelling play in your work? Are you always chasing a narrative?

Not always, but mostly, I like to tell a story through my photos. However, I'm primarily focused on creating a mood, which is why I'm always on the lookout for unique locations.