Alper Çukur is a fine art photographer based in Ankara,Turkey. As an experienced creative master of long exposure techniques, he is able to create eye-catching aesthetics and exceptional style images, expressing a profound vision about black and white photography. As you will see on the gallery below, the artist has the power to visualize creative compositions and to process inspirational pictures marked by sensational contrast.

Tell us about something about Alper Çukur Photography?

I have been involved in photography for seven years. I only make long exposures for four years. In my opinion, photography is not about creating a copy of the world as you see it through your eyes. I always try to involve my emotions to create aesthetically pleasing and moody images. Long exposure settings and dramatic light conditions help to achieve this goal. I also like to see viewers creating his/her own interpretation of the emotion of an image.

What’s your creative process like?

The most significant factor that makes a photograph stand out is the light. The light determines the mood of the image. When I don’t have the proper light, I go the place as often as I can until I get it right.

I look for an interesting composition, an arrangement of shapes and tonalities. I always shoot in Raw format. When editing my images I pay close attention adjusting the contrast.

Where do you find inspiration and why you like photography?

“The camera is recording, creating, seeing what the eye cannot see.”

— Alper Çukur

I always loved the sea,coast,open spaces and simple materials. I make long time exposures so that detailed water looks like mist or ice, clouds in the sky become blurred masses or lines. They don't appear like this in the real world and I like that transformation.

What are some tips you could give to people that really like your work?

If you are a beginner, evaluate other photographer's work and see what you like and dislike. Think about how it makes you feel, then translate this into your photos. If you love a photograph don't hesitate to emulate it. The way we found our style is to copy professionals and then progress from there.

Once you are able to emulate another person's photograph you can develop your own style. Try to improve your artistic eye and compositions. I think these are the most difficult aspects of photography. This takes a lot of self-critique, work and patience. Shoot always in Raw format and don't 'over-edit' your images on your computer.

Can you name some great photographer that inspires you and why?

Five years ago I saw the works of David Burdeny and Michael Levin on the internet. These simple but strong images really impressed me.

***

Thanks Mr. Alper Çukur for having the privilege to have you featured on Photography Office Magazine. We are overwhelmed by your experience and visual expressiveness of your pictures. We think that you will be one of future names in seascape photography! Definitely we look forward to make a new article maybe with you color seascape soon!