#schmude

I am Daniel M. Schmude, a photographer from Berlin, Germany.

I took my first photograph when I was 14 years old. I was a reserved and confused teenager with lot of thoughts and feelings, but no means of expression. As a child I drew a lot, but I was frustrated that I could not accurately depict on paper what I saw in the real world. That changed with photography. I could finally capture the images that fascinated and inspired me in a more realistic way and reflect on them or share them with others.                      

Of my varying interests, I am most fascinated by the human body-- the varieties, aesthetics and its expressiveness. When I look at people on the street or in the train, I look at their different characteristics, and imagine how I would photograph them. Everyone has an interesting story (which can be told in body language); each human form has its own aesthetic beauty. The naked body allows me to take an honest look at a person. Stripped away of clothes what remains is pure, a true representation. Each line, contour, wrinkle, scar has a story and is itself a story. I often have difficulty expressing myself, telling my own stories, so it is easier for me to express myself through others or help others to express themselves through images.

Playing with light and shadows can bring out the hidden aesthetic features of people, which often are overseen or not recognized. It always fascinates me when my models rediscover or become aware of their own aesthetic in front of the camera.  Identity and sexuality are issues that concern me. I consider photography as visual storytelling; therefore, I have always sought to capture those who still struggle for a voice, for representation.

Photography is not about perfection:imperfections make interesting images. Photography gives me an opportunity to express my thoughts about social problems, to view the world from different perspectives, to be provocative. 

I will use Tumblr to share my art with you, i hope you enjoy following me.