Dusil Photography Interview

In the world of fine art nude photography, few artists possess the unique ability to blend technical precision with deep emotional resonance. Dusil Photography, a name synonymous with breathtaking imagery and unparalleled craftsmanship, stands out as a beacon of creativity and passion. From his humble beginnings, inspired by the pages of Playboy, to his celebrated status as a master photographer, Dusil has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. His work is not just about capturing the human form; it's about revealing the very soul of his subjects, creating a powerful and intimate connection between the viewer and the photographed. Join us as we delve into the mind and process of this extraordinary artist, exploring the inspirations, challenges, and philosophies that define his remarkable journey.

What inspired you to specialize in fine art nude photography?

A: My photography journey began at sixteen when I subscribed to Playboy. The visual content was certainly a motivation and it led to relentless mockery from friends and family, with comments like, “I guess you subscribe to Playboy for the articles?!” Anyone who bought Playboy certainly heard that one.

I can honestly say that I read every issue from cover to cover. Even today there’s a lot of truth to this sarcastic dig, especially considering that only about eight percent of the entire magazine has nude content. Regardless, I dreamt of being a Playboy photographer, and in high school, I even convinced a few girlfriends to photoshoot with me and my humble Ricoh 35mm camera.

In 1996 I bought my first SLR – a Nikon F90. This kicked off a semi-serious journey into the creative arts. My girlfriend at the time worked for Ogilvy & Mather, so she invited me to be one of their official photographers at a few events. One was a Prague fashion show in November 1997 where I had a chance to photograph Karen Mulder.

How do you create a comfortable and safe environment for your models to express their vulnerability? 

Capturing my model’s soul requires me to overcome three obstacles: First and foremost, I need my model to relax in my company. I do this by establishing a genuine and personable connection; Secondly, I try to bring out her inner confidence. When she feels my confidence, it will help to reveal her own. Thirdly, and most importantly, I need to find a way for her to trust me. Getting through all these steps is a tall order, but in most of my sessions, I can get there within the first hour.

To capture the beauty of the female form is a privilege. Exposing her vulnerability is an honor. Giving me her soul is the greatest gift.

Can you describe your creative process from concept to final image?

A lot of my inspiration comes from the best fine art photographers around the world. When I review their portfolios I envision how they set up their scenes. Duplicating a great pose with a new model and different backdrop creates a brand-new opus.

Logistically, as I prepare my studio for a photoshoot I plan a posing flow to minimize any set changes. I usually stick to my plan but sometimes a spark of inspiration from my model dramatically changes everything. Thinking ‘outside the box’ is one of my biggest challenges, so when she offers a new approach I always welcome her suggestions with an open heart. It’s often a new perspective that I hadn’t considered.

When my model arrives at the studio then the first hour is allocated to relaxing. This starts with a cappuccino, chatting, and checking out her outfits. This helps to prioritize what she’ll wear throughout the session. Shooting then starts with a warm-up. At first, I let my model do her thing with little direction - to see how she flows. We’re still getting to know each other so I don’t want to push an agenda just yet. Once the session takes on its momentum then I begin to provide some direction. The tail-end of a 3-hour session is usually the best. By this time we’re completely comfortable with each other. I usually get the best photos in the final hour.

I try new approaches with every photoshoot, pushing the envelope to improve my skills. I don’t fear failure, so experimenting is always on the agenda. It’s sometimes unnerving to try something out of the ordinary when you have a model waiting for me to give her direction. “What would a great photographer do at this moment?” I often ask myself. 

Each photoshoot takes 18-36 hours of investment in post-production editing. I have a very specific workflow that has evolved over the years. It’s documented here: https://www.dusil.org/professional-workflow/. Long story short: I go through three main phases of my post-editing workflow. Each phase has many steps. I don’t like to cut corners. Each session is like raising a baby, and I want to nurture her to the best of my attention and abilities. I am proud of my work, and I enjoy every minute of it. When I point my name on something, then it needs to be my best work. I’m in sync with every artist in the world who truly appreciates the tens of thousands of hours they’ve invested in developing their craft.

How do you capture the deep emotions and sensuality of your subjects in your photographs?

I believe that the only way to be good at fine art nude photography is to capture my model’s spirit. In an 80/20 world: 80% is emotion and 20% is technique. Eyes are the gateway to the soul, and so the lens is my gateway to her eyes. All emotions are revealed when the depths of her soul are staring deep into my lens. She may be happy, sad, confident, or insecure. The camera sees everything and the lens doesn’t lie. For this reason, it’s vitally important for me to create a positive and trusting environment.

What challenges do you face in fine art nude photography, and how do you overcome them?

The success of every photoshoot centers around trust. By being genuine, personable, and professional, I usually get to an amicable level of trust in the first hour of a session. Aside from that, my biggest challenge is to convince my model to open her heart. Asking to reveal her inner spirit for a brief photoshoot is a tall order. I want her to trust me, to find her confidence, and to relax. Essentially, I’m asking that she open her heart to a stranger. Some models know exactly what I mean. Others have no idea what I’m asking. From their vantage point, they say, “I’m here. What more do you want from me?” They don’t see my dilemma. It’s like trying to explain colors to a blind person.

In some cases, I need to navigate through virtual walls that a model has built over time. Barriers that have been erected over the years to protect her from the world. Sometimes these virtual walls are rooted in childhood trauma, insecurity, or just the trials and tribulations of life. Some walls are taller and thicker depending on their past experiences. In many cases, she won’t even realize they exist. Her walls have existed for so long that they’ve become transparent. A photographer who lacks empathy won’t even notice.

How do you ensure that each photograph tells a unique story about the model?

Even though I plan every photo shoot, my best results are organically inspired by our synchronized emotions. It’s rarely about the mechanics of the poses, lighting, and backdrops. Everything is about giving her soul to me as her photographer. The catalyst for the best images is shared empathy. I want each model to give herself to me completely because I’m doing the same in return – no inhibitions, no distractions, no insecurities. Purity from the depths of our souls. Even if I get to this stage then I don’t stop there. My ultimate goal is to capture her visceral energy – her wild and feral emotions that are rarely seen by anyone. Getting to this level is extremely rare, but if I succeed then our photos take on a whole new meaning.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment from one of your photoshoots?

There are so many memorable moments from my photoshoots, they deserve their novel. I make a concerted effort to understand the nuances of my model’s personality. I want to appreciate her as a vulnerable human being. I shun photoshoots that feel like sterile business transactions with a ‘this is business, not personal!’ vibe. I never want a model to pose in a virtual bubble and me at the other end of the room in a separate bubble. I try to avoid such photoshoots at all costs. I want every session to be an existential experience. I want us to become friends and for both sides to respect each other’s sensibilities.

How do you balance the artistic aspects of your work with the ethical considerations of nude photography?

I respect each model’s limitations in a photoshoot. Sometimes these limits are clear before showing up to our session. Other times we need to discuss these nuances at the beginning of the photoshoot.

Over the years I’ve realized that there are three types of models: Those who love the art of creating magic through photography, those who just want to be paid and don’t care to receive the photos, and those who love both. I get the most joy from models who love the collaboration and can’t wait for me to send them our photos. My biggest reward is when a model tells me, “Wow, our photos are awesome! I can’t wait to shoot with you again!”

I respect each model’s time and effort. I want her to love the experience and the photos that we created together. My hope is that they’ll be shared with pride amongst friends, family, or her social channels. If I can get them published, that’s icing on the cake. I fully understand that each model has its limits, so if our styles don’t match then it’s fine. Revealing one’s soul is a level of vulnerability that’s not given easily and can exceed one’s comfort zone. If we mutually agree that my theme is beyond her boundaries, there are no hard feelings.

Many of my models return for follow-up sessions because of the mutual trust we’ve established from previous sessions. I pride myself on being genuine, personable, and empathetic to my models.

What role does compassion play in your approach to capturing feminine beauty?

When a photographer and model have empathy, they share a connection on a higher level. If I succeed in capturing a model’s emotions then my job is done. I need to “feel” her emotions for that to work. Without empathy, this emotional layer can’t be harnessed. Without empathy, this crucial layer is invisible. Likewise, if the model doesn’t have empathy, she’ll lack the intuition to share in a spiritual connection. By staying within the confines of her protective walls she relies solely on her physical presence, expecting that to be sufficient. But it’s just the starting point. The best fine arts photography is when the photographer and model share an authentic and emotional connection.

How do you see your work evolving in the future, and what new projects are you excited to explore?

My dream is to travel the globe and photograph gorgeous models from all cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Over the years, I’ve amassed a database of international models. When have enough contacts in a given location then I try to plan a photo shooting visit to their city. At the moment, I’m planning shoots in Tokyo (Japan), Toronto (Canada), Berlin (Germany), and Milan (Italy) before the end of 2024.

Dusil Photography's journey through the world of fine art nude photography is a testament to the profound impact of genuine connection and artistic vision. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects, to evoke deep emotions and tell compelling stories, is a rare and precious gift. Through meticulous preparation, empathetic engagement, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Dusil has crafted a body of work that transcends mere imagery, becoming a powerful narrative of human vulnerability and beauty. As we conclude our exploration of his artistic journey, we are left with a profound appreciation for the dedication and passion that drive his craft. Dusil's work not only enriches the world of fine art photography but also inspires us to see beyond the surface, to the soul within.