Raw, catchy portraits without frills is what characterizes the work of photographer André Dieterman (born in Utrecht, The Netherlands, 1965). Before shooting the people in front of his lens the way they really are, Dieterman likes to get to know them first. Based on trust, respect, and the patience necessary, he reaches the moment they dare to be vulnerable. By giving themselves the needed expression on their faces, they supply the foundation of the photograph. The result is pure, incisive pictures.
Dieterman, grew up in the center of Utrecht, developing his two passions: music and photography. As a 14-year old kid he shot his first black and white’s of artists at the former music venue Tivoli. Experimenting in his darkroom, he got the usual remarks, later becoming compliments. It shaped him to become who he is now, and he does what he loves most.
‘A hard, radical way of photography’, that’s how he describes his style. He specializes in black and white portraits and photo documentaries, both domestic and abroad. Catching images, sometimes carefully coloured but above all authentic: ‘An extra filter or different lighting would destroy it all. My photos are spur of the moment shots of people the way they are. Not a better or worse version of themselves’.
