Poet’s Portrait
07
The Portraits That Helped
Launch a Writer’s Career
Client Project
Portrait Photography
Artist
Vannina Horbas
Year
2024
Mission
Vannina Horbas is an emerging German writer. For her new website and her work as an author, she needed professional images that would capture both her growth and maturity as an artist, while also reflecting the unique personality she infuses into her writing and overall artistic expression.
Outcome
Together, we created a collection of 15 striking portrait photographs, captured in a daylight studio in Leipzig, Germany.
Vannina Horbas is an emerging German writer and poet who is passionate about bringing her voice to life through both her writing and the images she presents to the world. As she embarks on her journey to launch her career, her goal is to craft an identity that aligns with her artistic vision while appealing to her future readers. She wanted professional portraits that would reflect both the maturity and growth of an artist and the personal, intimate touch that she brings to her work. This visual branding would not only be essential for her website but also for the overall presentation of her growing portfolio as an artist.
Her decision to work with me was sparked by a recommendation from a mutual friend I had previously photographed. The trust she placed in me was pivotal in creating an environment where we could collaborate openly to create the perfect imagery for her.
An emerging writer
Setting the vibe
Our process began with a detailed discovery call where I asked Vannina specific questions about her goals, aesthetic preferences, and how she wanted her audience to feel when encountering her photographs.
We decided on a studio with character that would complement her vibe—ETAGE in Leipzig, with its spacious, industrial aesthetic and abundant
natural light.
This early conversation proved invaluable—it gave me a deep understanding of her artistic vision and allowed me to tailor my approach to match her needs.
The selection process for me is where the magic truly happens. I narrowed down the over 300 shots to 15 final portraits that captured the depth and character we had aimed for.
Although Vannina initially wanted black-and-white photos, during the editing process, we agreed that color would bring out more warmth and life in the images. After completing the first round of edits, I returned to the images days later with fresh eyes and refined the details, ensuring each photograph felt authentic and true to Vannina’s essence.
Custom emulation of analog color film. Color images enhance the sense of warmth and closeness.
Integrating special elements like her cherished old typewriter, “Erika,” which added a personal touch to one of the final shots.
Showcasing an
artistic persona
The result was a set of 15 striking, intimate portrait photographs, each one uniquely showcasing different facets of Vannina’s personality and artistic persona. The natural light from the large windows in the studio complemented the vintage furniture and spacious layout, bringing out a soft, inviting atmosphere in each shot.
These portraits would serve as the cornerstone of her new website, representing her as both a professional and a deeply personal artist.
“I had a wonderful and pleasant shoot with Simon. He was able to respond to my wishes perfectly, and I’ll definitely ask him again when I need new photos. His respectful manner is unmatched.”
Vannina Horbas
