SOTIRIOS ZERVOPOULOS INTERVIEW

Sotirios is a visionary fine art photographer whose work transcends traditional portraiture, delving into the realms of darkness, beauty, and raw emotion. With a signature aesthetic that merges theatrical storytelling with haunting elegance, he crafts images that are both evocative and deeply symbolic. His photography is more than just visual artistry—it’s an exploration of loss, passion, and the human experience. In this interview, he offers an intimate look into his creative process, revealing the inspirations, techniques, and philosophies that shape his striking body of work.

What drew you to the dark aesthetic in fine art photography, and how would you define your style?

I always had an affection for fine art. Ever since I remember myself with a camera, I remember trying to imitate a style that resembles dark aesthetics and fine art. But eventually, this aesthetic came naturally. I guess, it has to do with the experiences that each creative has. And mine, drew me here.

How do you balance the elements of darkness and beauty in your fashion and portrait work?

I always try to include theatrical elements in my photography and try to imagine the outcome of each project beforehand. I see myself more as a storyteller than a photographer. But each story needs a certain balance. It is like writing an essay. You do not have to use too many words or jargon. You just need to find the right words and you need to fight it so you can get it right. So, in each photo, if I use too many different elements or include too many props, then the outcome will feel overwhelming. I guess, you must know when to stop adding something in each project.

Your images often have a haunting style. Where do you draw inspiration from—films, literature, or personal experiences?

Most of the times I am getting inspired by personal experiences. Recently, I lost a person that heavily influenced my art. I guess my projects are something like their legacy. The way I see it, is that I created a world in my art. But this world, since it stems from loss, it is covered in darkness, and it is stained in crimson hues (that is a personal taste). There is a haunting element in this world, and I try to show it in my projects. One way to see it, is maybe how I deal with this loss, which made me discover different parts of myself.

How do you approach lighting and composition to create the dramatic mood in your work?

I have a small home-studio, and this is where I do most of my projects. I use two strobe lights and a reflector. This is more than enough to get this aesthetic. Now, when it comes composition, I try to include theatrical elements that usually symbolize something for me. Most of the times it is something personal, but art is universal. So, the viewer, is welcome to interpret what he sees based on their own experiences and feelings. For example, a red rose might represent the past. The loss I mentioned earlier, while a blue rose might represent the future. The viewer though, might perceive them as something else. Maybe just two beautiful flowers or a statement, like there is beauty even in this darkness I try to show with my work.

When working with models, how do you guide them to embody the emotions and themes you envision?

It is very important for me to have a story behind every project. That is the reason why I spend a lot of time trying to shape this story before I organize the photoshoot. Then, before the photoshoot, I sit with the model and tell them this story so they can be part of it. I am asking them which emotions I would like them to show (e.g. grief, loss or frustration). Then, during the photoshoot I let them improvise so they be part of the role and add their touch to the project. You see, I always believed that photography is like a tango. It takes two to dance.

What role does symbolism play in your fine art and fashion photography? Are there recurring motifs in your work?

Symbolism is very important for me. Every single prop and element I add in my art symbolizes something for me and I cannot imagine myself without them. For example, I use crimson hues in most of my photos. Sometimes they are not immediately visible. Other times, they are, like a red veil or rose. Red is a powerful colour, even though it symbolizes loss for me. So now you know. Every time you see red hues in my photos you understand what it means.

How do you incorporate post-processing and editing techniques to enhance the dark and ethereal quality of your images?

Editing is very important, and it is inextricably linked with photography in my opinion. You can take a dull and “boring” photo and create art with proper editing. I spend quite the time in editing and post-processing to see this outcome and try to take care of minor details that most people might not even notice. But they are there. Even the slightest shadow plays its role.

What are some of the biggest challenges of working in dark fine art photography, and how have you overcome them?

I guess the biggest challenge is finding the right collaborators and understand how to play with lighting. Once you figure that out then the rest are easy. Well, except the story. You also need to work on that before each project. After these things then the sky is the limit.

How do you see the intersection of dark aesthetics and mainstream fashion and beauty photography?

That’s an interesting question. I strongly believe that both can coexist even in the same project. But as I mentioned earlier. You just need to find the right balance of both. Then, the outcome, can be splendid.

What advice would you give to photographers looking to develop a signature dark aesthetic while maintaining commercial appeal?

There is only one advice I can give. Invest time and experiment a lot. And finally, find a muse and let her change you art.

Sotirios’ ability to weave narrative and emotion into his fine art and fashion photography sets him apart as a true storyteller behind the lens. His dedication to symbolism, composition, and the interplay of light and shadow results in images that linger in the mind long after they are seen. As he continues to push the boundaries of dark aesthetics while embracing new artistic challenges, his work serves as a powerful reminder that beauty can be found even in the deepest shadows.

Photo: @sozerv

MUA: @my_colorful_life_mua

Model: @lilianrose_vongoeren