“I became a photographer because it’s the easiest way for me to tell things about myself. My view of coming into this world, living and eventually dying.”
Lukas Vasilikos (born in 1975) currently living in a suburb of Athens, Greece. In 2006 he joined the photography seminar of Manos Lykakis and entered the world of photography. From then on, he focused on street photography which is his real passion.
Lukas Vasilikos has participated in group exhibitions held in Greece and Istanbul. In 2009 he participated at “Athens Photo Festival” in the group exhibition “New Greek Photographers”. And in 2010, Lukas Vasilikos had an individual exhibition at “Athens Photo Festival”. His photos have been presented in four photography publications, along with other photographers.
Since 2008, Lukas Vasilikos is a member of Platon Rivellis “Photo Circle”. He has also attended courses in philosophy of photography held by Achileas Nassios.
What was your first camera and photographic experience?
My first camera was a Konika-Minolta 7d. My first photographic experience was a trip to Egypt in 2006.
Why did you become a photographer?
I became a photographer because it’s the easiest way for me to tell things about myself. My view of coming into this world, living and eventually dying.
What does photography mean to you?
Photography for me is an art that includes all other arts: poetry, music, literature etc.
Which photographer has inspired you most and why?
Garry Winogrand and all of the street photographers. For me, Winogrand was one of the few that was doing street photography in an inner way.
Your favorite photography quote?
“I can’t talk about my style. It us kind of difficult for me. I don’t like styles. I only like taking photos and expressing myself through them.”
André Kertész
“André Kertész in Paris” The great photographer followed by camera while shooting in the French capital
What do you consider to be the axis of your work – technically and conceptually?
I use only 35mm lens, I do color for street photography and black and white for my other projects (uncanny).
What qualities does a good photographer need?
I think most of all he needs patience. Then what is necessary is sensitivity and honesty, too.
What does a photo need to be a great photo in your eyes?
Questions without answers.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your photographic projects?
I get inspired by other photographers and by movies. I love Andrei Tarkovsky’s work.
What kind of photography equipment and photographic supplies do you use?
I use Canon 5D II with a lens 35mm f/2.
What’s your favorite website on photography?
I like more than one. Mangum Photos is one of the best, but Agence Vu is also very good. For street photography I like Street Photographers. It is a very good collective of photographers where I have the honor to be a member.
What photography book would you recommend?
“Half Life” by Ackerman, “Last Resort” by Martin Parr, all published works by Anders Petersen and “Uncommon Places” by Stephen Shore.
Which advice would you give someone who wants to become a professional photographer?
I don’t know what advice to give. When I come up with one, I’ll let you know…
[…] learning by doing. I had the help of other Greeks like Charalampos (dirtyharrry), Lukas Vasilikos and my friend Christos […]
[…] For further reading, please check out the interview with Dimitri on my online photography magazine „The Art of Creative Photography“: „Day Dreaming With Eyes Wide Open“. On the same page you’ll also find a feature of Lukas Vasilikos: „Questions Without Answers“ […]
[…] me all started with Flickr and my main references where three greek street photographers: Lukas Vasilikos, Antonis Bultadakis and Charalambos […]