Daphne Marleen Laan photographed by Antoine Verglas. The Joy dress, Joy Cioci. Ankle strap open toe sandals, Dolce & Gabbana. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Antoine Verglas has made a significant impact on the industry with his captivating and authentic imagery. From his humble beginnings as a television host to his breakthrough in fashion photography, Verglas has cemented his name as a masterful visual storyteller. Through his unique rapport with subjects, distinct lighting techniques, and dedication to authenticity, Verglas has created a body of work that resonates with viewers around the world.
Antoine Verglas.
Transitioning from Television to Photography
Antoine Verglas started his journey into the world of photography in the early 1980s. In a discussion with Harper’s Bazaar, he recalled, “I began taking pictures in the early 80s for fun. In 1986, I landed a job as a TV host for Channel 5 in France, hosting a one-hour program featuring music video clips, movie trailers, and three guest interviews.”
Seline dress, Joy Cioci. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Despite his successful start for Channel 5, Verglas always felt his true passion lay behind the camera. “I believe I excelled behind the camera rather than in front of it. My brief stint as a TV host serves as proof of this,” he concluded with a smile.
Billy bow top and Jada skirt, Joy Cioci. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Building Rapport with Subjects
Verglas’s breakthrough came with a documentary-style photo series for French Elle, featuring iconic models such as Stephanie Seymour, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, and Cindy Crawford.
To capture the essence of his subjects, Antoine Verglas focused on establishing confidence and trust. He believes in putting his subjects at ease, making them feel comfortable, and showing genuine interest in their lives. Through preparation and research, he ensures he knows as much as possible about his subjects, allowing him to connect with them on a deeper level.
Lily jumpsuit and oversized black floral brooch, Joy Cioci. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
One of Verglas’s notable photo shoots was his collaboration with Melania Trump for British GQ in 2000. The concept behind the images was to portray Melania as a James Bond girl. Verglas aimed to create an atmosphere reminiscent of the iconic film franchise. “We got access to a private jet. Melania played the role perfectly with her amazing silhouette and had fun with it.”
Lily jumpsuit and oversized black floral brooch, Joy Cioci. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Lighting in Visual Storytelling
For Verglas, the lighting plays a crucial role in his photography. He believes in using lighting to flatter his subjects and create a mood that complements the story he wants to tell. “I want my subject to look beautiful and feel beautiful,” Antoine Verglas describes his concept.
Veronica crystal bodysuit and mini skirt, Joy Cioci. Vita lace up patent leather sandals, Amina Muaddi. Urban chic necklace, bracelet, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
To capture Daphne Laan in these photos, Antoine Verglas found her beauty to be striking, with a particularly outstanding face. Working closely with the stylist, hairdresser, and makeup artist, he aimed to accentuate her features and present her in the best possible light, creating an alluring and powerful image.
Cici pearl tulle dress in black, Joy Cioci. Lupita slippers, Amina Muaddi. Urban chic necklace, bracelet, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Embracing Technology while Staying True to His Aesthetic
As technology continues to transform the field of photography, Antoine Verglas acknowledges its potential impact. “Retouching possibilities. AI is getting really crazy. To the point that it becomes dangerous…”
Verglas seeks to strike a balance, utilizing technology to enhance his creative process while maintaining his distinct visual aesthetic and preserving the authenticity of his subjects. “I tried to stay real and natural. I use those tools obviously but I don’t overuse them.”
Veronica crystal bodysuit and mini skirt, Joy Cioci. Vita lace up patent leather sandals, Amina Muaddi. Urban chic necklace, bracelet, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
“Glamour and perfection can be great and I admire it but I also like sometimes accident authenticity and imperfections. U can find beauty in imperfections, ” he added.
Antoine Verglas also expresses concerns about the potential devaluation of human involvement in the creative process. “ I am worried with AI and the development of technology in photography… Soon you don’t need models any longer. Make up, hair fashion stylists. Photographers. You can create without them. Same in music and any art discipline… Scary really.”
The Joy dress, Joy Cioci. Ankle strap open toe sandals, Dolce & Gabbana. Urban chic bracelets, cuff, and rings, A. Jain Jewelers.
Nonetheless, he continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, with upcoming projects including an exhibition at Gallery La Hune in Paris and a new book compilation featuring his recent and past works.
Credits:
Photographer: Antoine Verglas @antoineverglas.
Model: Daphne Marleen Laan @daphne_marleen_.
Assistant: Michael Pusharsky and Lera Loeb.
Fashion editor: Andrea Edelstein @andreaedelstein.
Hair stylist: David Cotteblanche for Frederic Fekkai @hairbydavidcotteblanche.
Makeup artist: Irina Charkova @charkova_irina.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
