Dirk Karsten

“Photography is not what I do… it’s what defines me!”

Dirk Karsten is a photographer from the Netherlands. Karsten discovered photography at 14 years old during a trip to North Africa, where his parents gave him a camera and he felt compelled to document these new and exciting surroundings. His atmospheric photographs explore different techniques and the nuances of light.

Photographic Inspirations

Although he has never pursued fashion photography, Karsten finds himself hugely inspired by the timeless work of the greats. For Karsten the focus is not necessarily the subject matter, but the play of colours and contrasts within the imagery which should provoke a reaction in the viewer.

Varying Techniques

When it comes to creative processes and techniques, Karsten does not work with specific equipment, since he does not find it essential to work with a certain technique in order to achieve the desired effect. He works with both digital and analogue and develops his photographs in the studio using a computer but also uses traditional darkroom techniques.

International Reach

In 2017 Karsten was invited to exhibit his art photography work at the prestigious Venice Biennale in the Netherlands Pavilion. He has received countless awards for his work during his career as an advertising photographer and film director. Karsten’s work has been published in all the major international publications.