Life in Frames: My cinematic diary

I’m Lukas, based in Cologne, Germany, and photography has become more than just a passion for me; it’s a way of life. I first got into photography about a year and a half ago, quite unexpectedly. It all started when I took some portraits for a friend. The process, the interaction, and the joy of capturing those moments hooked me immediately. Since then, I’ve grown and learned so much, refining my techniques and building my own style along the way.

One of the main reasons I love photography, especially during my travels, is that it acts as a visual diary—a collection of moments that stay with you forever. Whether I share these moments on Instagram or keep them for myself, each photo is like a snapshot in time that allows me to relive that experience over and over. Documenting my journeys has taught me the true value of preserving memories, and there’s something deeply satisfying about being able to look back and feel the atmosphere of that captured scene.

My travels with a camera have taken me to some incredible places. While I’ve been to places like California without my camera, the real photographic adventures started with destinations like Lisbon, Venice, New York, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and of course, my home city of Cologne. Italy holds a special place in my heart; the vibe, the people, and the energy of the country make it an endless source of inspiration. Other highlights include Istanbul and Barcelona, each offering its own unique charm and stories to tell. Looking ahead, my bucket list for next year includes Sri Lanka and Vietnam—destinations that I’m sure will offer their own photographic magic.

I prefer photographing during the early mornings. The light at that time is simply brilliant—soft, warm, and perfect for creating mood. Plus, the streets are often empty, making it easier to capture those quiet, serene moments that might get lost later in the day. That said, I also appreciate the bold contrasts of harsh light and how it can add drama and depth to a shot.

My go-to gear includes my Fuji X-T5, which serves as my main camera, and my Fuji X100 VI, my always-on companion. I’m fully committed to Fuji cameras, and for good reason. The color science and tactile feel of Fuji cameras resonate with my approach to photography. My lens collection includes a 16-55mm f/2.8 zoom lens, which I find perfect for exploring new locations, as well as prime lenses: the 23mm f/1.4, 33mm f/1.4, and 56mm f/1.2. These primes are particularly great for portrait sessions, offering fantastic depth of field and working exceptionally well in low light, thanks to their wide apertures.

To achieve a cinematic quality in my images, I often use a Black ProMist filter from Tiffen and a Glimmerglass filter, which help create a soft, moody glow. This approach adds a touch of mystery and depth, enhancing the visual impact without needing extensive editing.

Natural light is the essence of my photography, especially when I’m on the move. I rarely carry a flash, so understanding and using the available light is crucial. Whether it’s the soft glow of dawn or the golden hour just before sunset, knowing how to position myself and my subject relative to the light makes all the difference. Of course, there are moments when artificial light comes into play, such as during overcast days or night shoots, but most of my work relies on the natural environment.

My workflow has evolved over time. These days, I do most of my editing on an iPad M4 Pro. There’s something about using the Apple Pencil that feels inherently creative—like I’m painting or sketching on a digital canvas. Given that I spend a lot of my day at work on a PC, switching to the iPad for my post-processing offers a refreshing change of pace. I use Lightroom for nearly all my edits, occasionally dipping into Photoshop for more complex adjustments, but only rarely. This setup works perfectly for me, striking a balance between efficiency and creativity.

Beyond photography, I have a love for art in all its forms. Whether it’s modern art in a museum or street art that adds life to the urban landscape, art fuels my creativity. I’m also into electronic music—it’s the soundtrack to many of my photo-editing sessions and travels. Interior design is another interest of mine, albeit on a smaller scale. I enjoy exploring how different textures, colors, and objects come together to create a harmonious space.

Venice is one place I’ve visited twice and plan to return to again. For me, it’s a photographer’s paradise. There’s something mystical about the city, whether it’s bathed in sunlight, shrouded in mist, or cloaked in rain. Every corner seems to tell its own story, and I can’t get enough of it. It’s a place I’d recommend to any photographer looking to capture that old-world charm mixed with an air of romance and mystery.

A recent and exciting chapter in my photography journey has been capturing weddings. I’ve already photographed three weddings, and I’m looking to turn this into a small side project next year alongside my travel photography. Weddings bring their own set of challenges and joys, but the reward of documenting such an important day is immeasurable.

Photography, for me, is a blend of passion, creativity, and constant learning. I love that each shot teaches me something new, whether it’s about the play of light, the nuances of editing, or simply the joy of freezing a fleeting moment in time. And as I continue on this journey, I’m excited to see where my camera will take me next.

For more of my work and travels, you can find me on Instagram: @lukelucis_

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