Toufic Araman is an Egyptian born, Dubai based photographer who has now been setting the standard in advertising and conceptual photography in the Middle East. As a graduate of the American University of Cairo, his main discipline wasn't initially in photography or the visual arts. It all began with economics and fine arts until he received his first camera as a gift in 2003. Viewing himself as nothing "more than an observer", Toufic sees photography as a means to "reflect" and "effectively communicate". Well, people understand and greatly appreciate his language.
But now, after studying at the International Centre of Photography (ICP) and School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York, he has become a multi-award winning photographer, including the winner of the Gulf Photo Plus award, twice. As well as working with major high profile organisations, he also finds the time to teach photography at the American University of Dubai. Kudos. Here's what he had to say..
But now, after studying at the International Centre of Photography (ICP) and School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York, he has become a multi-award winning photographer, including the winner of the Gulf Photo Plus award, twice. As well as working with major high profile organisations, he also finds the time to teach photography at the American University of Dubai. Kudos. Here's what he had to say..
Since when were you interested in photography, how did it all start?
It all started in christmas 2003 when a friend of mine bought me my first SLR. Before that I never had a camera!
How do you decide on the theme of a shoot?
Well I go through an extensive brainstorming with my client and/or crew based on what needs to be done. I research a lot and get inspired by other photographers, painters and visual arts in general or even current affairs.''
'My ultimate goal is to mix fashion with
culture and weaved in everyday action'
You have worked with men's style magazines and Al-Tayer fashion group, do you enjoy fashion photography?
I have worked with many more fashion magazines that than Elle Middle East etc. yes this is what I do. I am a fashion photographer if I did not enjoy it I would not shoot it.
Who are your favourite fashion designers?
Balenciaga – Yohji Yamamoto
What is your most memorable moment during a shoot?
When things come together and we have a great shoot. When the experience itself of shooting becomes a goal in Itself rather than thee end result.
'labeled as an effective communicator, and
let that be through photography, painting or film'
In your personal photography page you capture images that reflect certain political notions in the Middle Eastern society; what is your motive/message behind these shots?
I don't define myself as anything more than an observer; I don't give solutions, I simply reflect. My work takes the viewer through the journey of my thoughts, towards the exact feeling or moral I try to reflect. I want to be labeled as an effective communicator, and let that be through photography, painting or film. That is my message from behind these images.
I don't define myself as anything more than an observer; I don't give solutions, I simply reflect. My work takes the viewer through the journey of my thoughts, towards the exact feeling or moral I try to reflect. I want to be labeled as an effective communicator, and let that be through photography, painting or film. That is my message from behind these images.
My ultimate goal is to mix fashion with culture and weaved in everyday action.
Guy Bourdin, visual art in general.
Besides the commercial/advertising work you do, what do you enjoy photographing?
Fashion, Fashion and more Fashion
Can you share with us some of your current and future projects?
I am working on my next photoshoot translating the event in the Middle East. I will keep you posted.
Visit Toufic Araman official website for more information and visuals. You can also get more on TAM's featuring Photography and Arts
I am working on my next photoshoot translating the event in the Middle East. I will keep you posted.
Visit Toufic Araman official website for more information and visuals. You can also get more on TAM's featuring Photography and Arts
Written by Malik Sadik
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