Meet Aleksander Salski, a Warsaw-based photographer whose work strikes a delicate balance between classical photography and fairytale-like fantasy.
After spending over a decade as a graphic designer and art director, Aleksander made a shift. What started as a desire to break out of the isolation of design turned into a career behind the camera—one that’s taken him from Tokyo to Indonesia and onto film sets at the Camerimage festival.
With over 20 years in image-making, Aleksander brings an eye trained by design and a mindset shaped by experience. He knows the value of patience, collaboration, and creating a relaxed atmosphere on set. His images reflect his influences—painting, cinema, culture—and his lens: frequent travels, heavier electronic music, and a bit of a rebellious streak.
Check out our Livestream with him.
We asked Aleksander to share his process, what inspires him, and how he’s found his voice through photography. Here we go:
What’s your first photo memory?
My earliest photography memory is from when I was about ten. I’d often go on walks with my grandfather, a geologist who treated photography as a hobby. One hot summer day in Warsaw, while other kids were playing nearby, he decided it was time for a portrait. He was using an old Zenit camera, and setting the exposure seemed to take forever. I was fidgeting, desperate to run off and play. At the time, photography seemed complicated and tedious. I never imagined it would become my life’s work.
Why did you choose photography?
I studied photography at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw but spent ten years working in design. Eventually, I realized I wanted to work with people again and be on the move. Photography gave me that opportunity. I enjoy the energy, the pressure, and the collaboration. I’m still happy with that choice.
Who or what inspires you?
I’m drawn to social and cultural themes that disrupt my sense of calm. Those subjects make the best starting points for creative and fashion photography. I also take inspiration from painting, cinema, and travel. My recent trip to Indonesia sparked a project that blends documentary and fashion—exactly the kind of work I enjoy.
How would you describe your unique style?
I’d describe my style as a search for balance between fantasy and classical photography. I draw heavily from painting, especially its color palette and symbolism. I also use custom-made filters to degrade the image in ways that interest me. It gives my work a distinctive, organic quality.
What’s a must-have on a photoshoot, and why?
First, a great team. I have nothing to shoot without a solid stylist, makeup artist, and hairstylist. Second, the mood on set—everything flows if the energy is right. And third, my custom filters. I prefer to create effects on set rather than fix things later in post. It’s more authentic.
Do you have a photography experience that stands out to you?
Photographing actors at the Camerimage festival has been a highlight. One moment that stands out was photographing Willem Dafoe. I was nervous—he’s such a legend. To break the ice, I told him my mother had a crush on him when I was a kid. He laughed, and the session instantly felt easy. That connection made for one of my favorite portrait series.
Is there anything that stands out about your workflow?
I sketch my shots before a session. It’s not that common in photography, but it helps me have a clear plan. Once I’ve got the essentials, I feel free to experiment.
What’s been your hardest—but best learning?
At the beginning of my photographic journey, my biggest mistake was having too much ambition and a desire to “make up for lost time.” This caused me to react very emotionally to stress on set, putting the pursuit of the perfect shot above the team’s overall comfort. In hindsight, I see it was unnecessary—we’re not performing open-heart surgery, and making sure everyone is at ease on set is crucial. Now, that’s my guiding principle.
What’s next—anything you’d love to shoot in the future?
I’d love to return to Tokyo. I worked there in 2016, and the culture and visual language still inspire me. I want to spend more time there, go deeper, and create new projects in that environment.
See more of his work on Instagram.
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