My journey began as an archaeologist and, in 2010, evolved into a visual language through archaeological and historical artifact photography. Documenting the traces of time taught me how to observe, to wait, and to read the quiet layers of a story.

Following this experience, I worked at an advertising agency where I took part in content production for over 100 local and national brands, serving as Creative Director for four years. I focused on translating the stories of brands, creative teams, and individuals into a strong yet minimal visual language—prioritizing an understanding of the core idea, building the right atmosphere, and expressing narratives in a clear and impactful way.

In 2012, I obtained my drone pilot license and began working with moving images. The corporate films I produced during this period allowed me to merge the stillness of photography with the rhythm of film. Image-making, for me, was no longer about a single frame, but about flow, atmosphere, and emotion.

In 2018, I founded my own production company and shifted my focus toward fashion and advertising photography, as well as fashion film direction. Across promotional films, fashion films, and music video projects, I aimed to create a space where aesthetics and emotion, structure and intuition, could coexist. To deepen my expertise in advertising, I completed a master’s degree in Interactive Marketing at Istanbul Bilgi University Next Academy, while actively managing production workflows and contributing to creative and production processes with various partners.

My projects have been recognized with nominations and awards at international film festivals in Istanbul and Amsterdam. Today, I continue to create work with an approach that sees photography and film as tools—centering collaboration, process, and the power of storytelling, and carrying emotion beyond the frame.

Okan Gülderen