Philippe Laruelle was born in a small village in the French speaking side of Belgium. He dedicated 20 years of his life to his first great passion: Judo. Working as a train accompanist almost his entire life, he climbed in the same time step by step the stairs of success in his favorite sport. He obtained the black belt and the coaching certificate and acted as coach in some reputable clubs. But unfortunately the train of success stopped for him at the end of the line: several injuries didn’t allow him to continue his career. After some life painful events hit him, another train of success stopped in his station: the photography. “Photography saved my life” Philippe used to say. If you will look at some of his photos you will understand why.

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Please answer the following questions:

1. When (at what age) did you start photography and what made you decide to do it?

Photography certainly saved my life. Following very painful events oflife, I had a very big burnout that lasted almost 3 years. I was supported by a professionalhealth that led me and helped enormously to get me out of this indescribable pain. As my firstpassion was no longer possible, I decided to buy a camera (Nikon D3300) without knowingtoo much why. Over the time, I can thanks to this camera, as I started to find pleasure in thelife. Today, I am cured and photography has become my new passion.

2. Tell us about the most important steps you have taken in photography.

After using my first camera for few weeks, I realized thatthis was interesting for me and I wanted to see further, the desire to re-socialize and the thirst to learn thingshad returned. I started a photography class where I learned the basics. Today, 3 yearshave passed and my desire for learning is still present. I’m notattending classesanymore, but I'm progressingtaking online training and seeking advice fromexperienced peoplein this domain.

3. What photographic equipment do you use? Now,almost alldays,I am using a D750 Nikon camerawith very good lenses like the Nikon 24-120 1.4G ED as well as a Nikon 50mm1: 1.8G and Tokina11-20 f2.8. This is what I generally use.

4. More and more people are now using the phone to take pictures. Which isyour opinion on this?

I'm certainly not against it. The latest technology is verypromising and could offer exceptional results. It will maybe represent the future of photography.

5. What is more important for a "waw" photo? Equipment or the "eye of the photographer"?

For a waw photo, everything counts: equipment, light, timing, but for me, Ithink the two are inseparable.

6. What is / are your favorite kind (s) of photo (s)?

I like to take all kinds of photos, everything that interests m. It is according to the inspiration of the moment, the place where I am or the weather.

7. Does your life partner share your passion for photography with you?

 :)) My wifeshares the same passion but in another way. She does not use a camera but she became my eyes and her ideas are very often excellent.

8. Is photography for you a job or just a hobby?

For me, photography can only be a hobby, a passion, a pleasure. Personally, if I had to take photos by obligation or bygreed, it would lose all flavor. Recognition, positive criticism is my only salary out of photography andthat's fine.

9. What is your opinion on post-processing images?

I really like the posttreatment,I sincerely think that we have to keep up with time; the techniques are at our disposal, so why should we deprive ourselves of them.

10. Tell us about the funniest moment that happened to you when taking photos.

I do not have a specific situation, but each photo trip has its share of anecdotes.

11. What is your dream about your career as a photographer?

I will not call it a career, but I would only hope that this passion will last as long as possible and the pleasure of taking beautiful photos will remain intact.

12. Tell us your motto in photography.

 Make you happy …..