
I have never been interested in the "perfect" shot.
To me, photography is a tool for understanding the world, not for decorating it. My work is driven by a simple, persistent curiosity about how we inhabit the earth—the way we work, the way we settle, and the way we endure.
"To provide a meaning to the world, one must feel involved in what one singles out through the viewfinder. This attitude requires concentration, a discipline of the mind, and a sense of economy." — Henri Cartier-Bresson
My background is rooted in the logic of structures and the rhythm of movement. I studied Computer Science in Athens and User Interface design in Copenhagen, spending years building digital systems for organizations like the European Parliament. Before the camera, there was dance—touring with Artisstep and exploring the weight of Balkan tradition through performance.
These experiences were early exercises in observation. They taught me how to find the underlying structure in a chaotic scene and how to recognize the precise moment a gesture becomes a story.
"The photographer is an armed reiteration of the gaze. This is the work of a witness." — Sergio Larrain
I prefer the slow way. I stay in one location long enough for the novelty of my presence to wear off and for the deeper rhythm of a community to surface. I want to be part of the scene, not an observer standing apart from it.
I carry a Leica because it is quiet and demands proximity. It forces me to be present, to look longer, and to respect the space between the lens and the subject. These images are a record of that closeness—a collection of moments where the distance between the camera and life was momentarily bridged.
To explore the archive:
- The Series: Focused projects and visual narratives documenting a place or a people over an extended period.
- The Gallery: A curated selection of individual frames—moments encountered while in transit.
- The Blog: Reflections on the process, the logistics of travel, and the technicalities of a minimalist approach.
If you have a story to share or simply want to say hello, please reach out through my contact page or email me directly at evangelos.tzemis@gmail.com. I always look forward to hearing from fellow travelers and photographers. I’ll make sure to get back to you soon.