10 Questions: Yoris Couegnoux

Based in the capital city of wine, Bordeaux, French photographer Yoris Couegnoux photographs weddings worldwide. He was exposed to photography at a young age (his dad was an amateur photographer) and he has never looked back since. Yoris’ work showcases great skill in capturing light, combined with sensitive narration. His work transports you to a cinema set, as if you were watching a modern interpretation of a classic film.

1 . What is life to you? What it should be?

I don’t know what life is or should be. I just know that I’m really lucky to be here - to exist. Though my life is far from perfect, it suits me just fine.

2 . How does where you live influence your creativity?

I am very lucky to live in Bordeaux firstly for its lifestyle (you know: the red wine, the cuisines, the historical architecture especially the neoclassical) and secondly for its geographical location. I’m just 2 hours away from of the ocean - the French west coast with 250 km of golden sand beaches and the biggest sand dunes in Europe. I’m also 2 hours away from of the mountains, with rivers, snow, and forests. And mostly, I’m connected with the countryside which I can drive to in 2 hours from Bordeaux, it’s magical.

3 . There are a lot of professions out there - why be a photographer?

Since writing isn’t my cup of tea, I found another way to express myself - through photography. I hung out a lot with my dad who is an amateur photographer and I used to play with his cameras. One day, I decided to make my passion my job. And here I am! I never thought I would be able to pay my rent doing what I love - thanks to photography.

4 . Are you creativity satisfied at the moment?

To be honest I’m never satisfied. I’m always trying to push my limits and I’m trying to shoot every single day.

5 . What movie did you love recently?

I watched « Fight Club » recently, directed by David Fincher and thought that was great. Everything in this movie is inspiring: the lighting, the story which is surprising from the beginning to the end (no spoilers here!). I really admire the work of this film director. I actually found a lot of my inspiration in his movies. (I watch TV series too - I love: « House of Cards »)

6 . What’s your path to what you’re doing now?

It’s a bit of a cliche answer, but passion and love are the main ingredients. They are what push me into wanting to succeed everyday without making me feel like I have a boring desk job.

7 . Is/Are there any project(s) you wish you could do - or might do?

I am working on a lot of projects right now. I want to organize (and teach) a workshop focusing on something different that never took place in France. Also preparing for the wedding season where I’ll be travelling to some great destinations.

8 . Do you shoot with your left or right eye?

I shoot with my left eye.

9 . Who do you respect - in photography or elsewhere?

As I already said, I really like Film Director David Fincher’s work. In  the wedding photography industry, I like the work of Petar Jurica, I really like the way he captures light and his story telling. (Editor’s insert: Read also our interview with Petar Jurica). 

10 . Where do you see yourself in 10 year’s time?

To tell you the truth, I really have no idea. I try to keep my feet on the ground where I am at the moment. But I hope I’ll be in good health and still taking pictures.

11 . Bonus Q: Do you think the gear you use affects the way you photograph? Why?

Yes of course, it affects a part of the photography but we don't have to depend on it.

Gear list:

• Canon 5D mark III
• Canon 5D mark II
• Sigma 35mm Art 
• Canon 50mm L
• Sigma 85mm
• Flash 550EX

Field notes:

I shoot digital because it’s cost effective and efficient (but I love shooting film too!) My go to preset is Portra 800 by VSCO.

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