Concrete Iris Photography
We sat down with Vincent Pujo, owner of Concrete Iris Photography! His unique subject and execution highlights everyone’s individuality— our eyes! Because of this, not one photo is ever the same. It makes a wonderful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or even a refreshing take on a family portrait! So pull up a chair, learn about Vincent, and reach out to him to capture your one-of-a-kind portrait!
Vincent Pujo | Owner, Concrete Iris
Where are you from originally and how do you think this played a role in your career choice?
My name is Vincent. I'm from Bordeaux, France. Being surrounded by painters in my family, like my grandfather and uncle, probably nudged me towards photography without me even realizing it.
How long have you been a photographer?
I've been a photographer for over 20 years now. During this time, I've explored various genres including portraits, still life, and abstract art. It was this diverse background that eventually drew me to iris photography. There's a surreal quality to irises; they can resemble landscapes or even planets. Each iris is unique and offers unexpected beauty, making it a fascinating subject to capture.
When was the idea for Concrete Iris born?
The idea for Concrete Iris sparked during the pandemic, while chatting with friends, Talking about photography, Eye photography came up, and I was instantly intrigued. I began experimenting with various techniques, on friends and family and building gear from scratch. Eventually, after receiving positive feedback on my work, I made the bold decision to establish Concrete Iris Photography, dedicated to showcase the beauty found within each person's eyes.
What is your biggest challenge when creating your art?
My main challenge is keeping things real and authentic. I strive to capture the essence of my subjects without relying on digital manipulation. Instead, I prefer to enhance the existing elements in the photograph, such as adding backgrounds or extending what's already present, while preserving the integrity of the original image. I try to remain true to the essence of the moment captured, while still allowing for artistic expression and creativity.
Do you find some people are nervous about photographing their eye? Or are you met with more excitement than anything else? How do you make a client feel comfortable in front of the camera?
People are actually quite excited about having their eyes photographed. There's usually no stress or pressure involved; it's a relaxed and low-key experience. All they need to do is open their eyes as wide as they can. There's no need to worry about hair, makeup or attire—it's all about capturing the natural beauty of their eyes. After taking the picture, I show them a close-up view of their eyes on the computer screen, and they're often surprised and amazed by the level of detail they see. Despite looking at our eyes in the mirror every day, we often overlook the intricacies and uniqueness of them. It's always a fun and eye-opening moment for my clients when they see the stunning details of their own eyes captured in a photograph. This process helps to make them feel comfortable and excited about the experience.
Tell us about how diverse Concrete Iris is. It's so much more than just a picture on the wall.
Whether it's a personal treat, a unique gift for a loved one, a special occasion or a fresh take on the traditional family portrait, Iris Photography offers a unique experience. From marking anniversaries and graduations to capturing the love and connection in weddings and engagements, it's a fresh perspective to traditional milestones. Additionally, it's a sophisticated option for corporate gifts and events, offering a personalized touch that leaves a lasting impression. In essence, It's about celebrating life's moments, big and small.
What brings you most joy during your process?
What truly brings me joy throughout my process is the art of capturing moments behind the lens. Meeting new people and delving into their stories is an incredibly enriching experience for me. I find inspiration in the uniqueness of every individual I photograph, and I'm passionate about translating their essence into captivating images. Seeing the excitement and happiness on people's faces when they receive their picture is the most rewarding part of my work. It's a reminder of the impact that photography can have in capturing and preserving moments of joy and beauty in people's lives.
What professional photographers have influenced your work?
I am pretty eclectic, I love pictures that tells stories. Look at artists such as Man Ray and Irving Penn, despite their stylistic differences, they both shared talent for creating images that invite viewers to imagine a narrative in their pictures. Using photography as a medium for storytelling and expression.
What is the best way for people to contact you?
The best way for people to contact me is through my website www.concreteiris.com, where they can view my portfolio, learn more about my work, and easily get in touch. Additionally, they can reach out to me via email contact@concreteiris.com , for inquiries, appointments, or any other questions they may have. I am also on Instagram @concrete_iris and Facebook !
