Amandine Gurlois
Photographer
“EARLY MORNING ARE A CELEBRATION OF POSSIBILITY, A DAILY REMINDER THAT EVERY MOMENT IS PRECIOUS AND FULL OF POTENTIAL !”
Hi Amandine, how are you?
I'm feeling fckiiiing amazing at the moment! As I write this from a balcony in Berlin, I'm gratefullll for the creative energy and inspiration that surrounds me here. The people are amazing, and the celebration of diversity is truly inspiring to me!! I feel completely in my element, like a fish in water, fully immersed in what I love! And readyyy for the time coming ahead! What about you, guys?
You are a photographer, how did you get started?
Phew, do you have an hour? Haha, just kidding, I'll keep it short. I started as a photographer two years ago, and now I'm doing it full-time—yes! I've combined three things: my passion for photography, my degree as a counselor, and my personal experience with mental health struggles. These elements naturally led me to my current job.
A few years ago, I went through a heavy breakup and a rough period. I lost my sense of self and stability, which my relationship had provided. So, what now? I left everything behind in Belgium and moved to the south of France, completely alone. I stepped out of my comfort zone, literally and figuratively.
I already had a heavy past with an eating disorder and spent over three years in a psychiatric hospital due to depression, suicide attempts, and severe form of anorexia. These issues resurfaced during that time. Photographing women helped me immensely. Seeing various beautiful bodies lifted me up, and one day, someone said to me, "Amandine, this isn't just healing for you; it's healing for us too, the way you capture and bring out the beauty in every body." And that's how 'phototherapy' was born.
As a sidenote, microdosing truffles played a significant role in my evolution to where I am now. Plant medicine brought me closer to myself and what I wanted to do, free from societal expectations and family pressures. Detached from all expectations, I'm now the happiest person ever. I recommend everyone step out of their comfort zone because that's where the most growth happens!
When did you get your first camera?
My mom told me that even when I was a kiddo, I always wanted a camera as a toy in the toy store, so from a very young age—let's say 6! It was always an extension of myself, whether on the sea, land, during school or at home! At 6 but also from now on, i never go out of my place without a camera! Woops, some people tells me that i’m addicted! Maybe I am a bit!
On your page, you explain that you employ photography as a form of therapy, could you explain us a little more on what you mean by that?
OFFCOURSE! :) let me explain - sorry it will be a little bit longer, but for me it’s important that everybody learn about my work! I’m the first here in Belgium and Europe, so i need to be very clear ! (Haha)
As a phototherapist, I harness the transformative power of (naked) photography to revolutionize perceptions about the body and mind from people in front of my lens!
My mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health issues and other diseases by sharing inspiring stories and showing the authentic souls behind these labels the society give us! Through my work, I aim to create pictures that celebrate the fcking natural beauty and empower those who step in front of my lens.
My projects serve as a platform for sharing diverse stories and fostering awareness around mental health issues and other diseaser and taboos. Utilizing photography as a therapeutic tool, I collaborate with adults and young adults grappling with mental illnesses such as burnout, PTSD, depression, eating disorders, as well as individuals undergoing significant life changes.
My personal sessions are inclusive and open to all genders, couples, introverts, extroverts, and individuals at any stage of life. Whether seeking support for self-love, confidence-building, body image acceptance, or simply a celebration of self, my photography sessions offer a space for exploration and healing.
By capturing images that celebrate, explore, honor, and imagine the naked human form, I aim to promote self-acceptance and strengthen self-esteem.Looking ahead, I aspire to deepen my exploration of therapeutic photography and conduct more workshops in the future.
My ultimate goal is to evoke empowering emotions and experiences through my work. During each session, there's room for you to connect with yourself, your body, and your mind, allowing us to co-create art that captures your authenticity. It's a space for you to push past self-criticism and self-consciousness, embracing your true self. The intentions behind each session can vary, whether it's to experience the session itself, to cherish the end product, or to create a reminder of your beauty and authenticity. Every photograph serves as a testament to your journey and a celebration of your unique existence.
What are some essentials you need on a photoshoot?
A white blanket to sit on, food and drinks to make people feel at home during our pre-shoot chat, a personal item to incorporate into the shoot, a (naked) body offfcouuurse, and a soul—nothing more is needed! Of course, sometimes we go reallyyy alllll out and bring in more elements to get more artistic in a studio setting! This might include a projector for projections, smoke, a makeup artist, a stylist, body paints, or accessories like sunglasses and hats, tattooo,! Occasionally, we even use oldtimers or surfboards! Yey! So you can't think of anything that crazy!
I always want to make each shoot personal, which is why the conversation before the shoot—both over the phone and in person—is even more important than the shoot itself. During this time, I can sense what the soul wants to express through the shoot, whether it's something artistic, personal, intimate, or completely wild and creative. It's in these discussions that we can truly explore what we want to bring into the world.
You are from Ghent, what is a place that you would recommend people to go to?
ELMO, of course!!!! It’s my all time favorite spot—a bar, restaurant, and exhibition space all in one. They offer a perfect blend of art, delicious food, and great vibes. It always feels like a holiday there! The drinks are fantastic, and the staff is incredibly friendly and always in high spirits and good mood. I held my exhibition there in MAY for 3 months, and it's wonderfully cozy. You can enjoy a nice glass of natural wine by the water—truly delightful.. and sometimes i’m there for so long because of the awesome vibe- That I forget how many glasses I've had () -
A little bit of a random question: are you a snoozer, or do you wake up immediately?
I absolutely FCKING LOVE LIFE, truly! I don’t like sleeping because I can't wait to wake up every morning—so.. i’m definitely not a snoozer! (Apologies to all the night owls out there hahahah.) My best friend hates me for it, as she's usually heading to bed just as I'm waking up, and we always laugh about it. On holidays, it sometimes drives her crazy (ELISE, LOVE YOU!!). I do try to sleep a bit longer for my health, but it’s a real challenge for me! Because i always work late, but love to wake up very early before eveyone else. My alarmclock goes off every morning at 5:00/5:30 - even here in Berlin i love to stay true to myself on that one. My day starts very good than!
What is your favorite time of the day to shoot?
I don’t have a favorite time to shoot; it all depends on the mood of the moodboard I’m working with. Sometimes, I crave the soft, ethereal light of morning bliss, while other times, I’m drawn to the warm, magical glow of the golden hour. If I had to choose, it would undoubtedly be the golden hour. There’s something enchanting about having spent a day filled with wonderful moments, engaging in meaningful conversations before the shoot, and then capturing those perfect, fleeting moments as the sun gently dips below the horizon. It’s a time when everything feels just right, and the world is bathed in a beautiful, golden light!! :)
Is there someone you would love to do a shoot with?
Every person is my dream guest to have in front of my camera. Truly, every soul is unique, making each shoot so special. I learn also alot every shoot. Because before the shoot we always have a deep conversation about life and about their soul- i always need that to really shoot a vibe and soul! And Sometimes, I invite people because I’m captivated by their beauty and want to capture it to break more and more taboos. Next week, I’ve asked Terrence Munzemba to step in front of my lens—he's absolutely amazing, with a face and soul that are incredibly beautiful. You really need to check this guy out! I really want to showcase that everyone and every body is fcking amazing and beautiful! That’s my mission.
Can you tell us something to inspire the culture?
I embrace life with an early daily start, believing that each morning is a fresh opportunity to chase my dreams. The quiet stillness of dawn, when the world is just beginning to wake up. Rising early allows me to reflect, plan, and set the tone for a productive day! Checkin in with myself daily through running. It’s a time to savor the beauty of a sunrise, nature, to breathe deeply, and to feel gratitude for the simple joys of life too! :) By waking up early, I’m not just getting a head start on the day; I’m choosing to wake up with enthusiasm and positivity! . For me, early mornings are a celebration of possibility, a daily reminder that every moment is precious and full of potential!
