After working as Fashion Editor for Harper’s Bazaar Latin America, Willem Jaspert turned to photography, assisting the likes of Corinne Day and John Akehurst. Now out on his own, Willem’s work is stark yet lyrical, and always with a hint of whimsy.
Images
Q&A
Name: Willem Jaspert

Nationality: British

Based In: London

Website: www.willemjaspert.com

How did you start your career?
When I was at Uni I did club pics for The Face at the weekends. After that I worked as Fashion Editor for Harper’s Bazaar Latin-America in Mexico and became much more involved with the photography side. I quit my job there and came back to London to assist John Akehurst and Corinne Day.
What do you think is your best work so far?
I really liked shooting Dazed & Confused Japan with Josh Beech and the recent project for B Store / Selfridges.

Who or what has influenced you?
We grew up in a house full of art books and prints so images were always around me. From John [Akehurst] I learnt lighting and composition and from Corinne [Day] I learnt to be more ‘free’ with the camera. Working with Mike Figgis inspired me to start experimenting with video, he is an amazing man!


What sets you apart from other people in your profession?
That’s not for me to say.

How would you describe your view of the world?
Always optimistic.

What music do you like to work to?
I love Disco and Motown but generally have a mix going to keep everyone happy.

Three people you would love to work with:
Michael Jackson, Isabeli Fontana, David Lynch.

Where do you find inspiration?
I spend hours on my bike gong all over London and have developed a weird obsession for 60s brutalist architecture. My girlfriend introduced me to the world of Czech photography and when I’m with friends we’re always bouncing ideas off each other.

What are you loving at the moment?
Making short films. Oh, and ‘tickle-time’ with my girlfriend.

Film you think everyone should see:
The Big Blue.

Best advice you have ever been given?
“Do it because you want to do it†and “Never trust a man in leather glovesâ€.

Who do you think is one to watch?
London-based Danish designer Hans Madsen and his beautiful knits.
7 comments
Carlos says:
Sep 19, 2008
When someone like Willem talks to you, there’s a feeling of deep understanding on both what he does and loves but also of his great humor which turns him into a cool human being. Time seems to be never enough when talking with him and this can also be felt looking at his art work.
In my case, being able to see that through his work, says a lot about his great skills. I’m an engineer and sometimes I leave aside the arts for the numbers.
Willem’s work can make me turn around and enjoy a piece of time inside a picture!
Way to go Dude!
Abrazo
cheetah says:
Sep 20, 2008
Willem is one of the best human beings alive! He’s cool, he’s intelligent, a great photographer and a lovely friend!
ryder says:
Sep 20, 2008
Michael Jackson, Isabeli Fontana, David Lynch… intersting, and so versatile choice of people. Never trust a man in leather gloves? :) so true.
but lets get back to his work. his photos are minimalistic and classic, sophisticated and very sensual. i like them a lot.
need to see more of his work on his website.
and if he would ever read it: great, great answers!
ya2407 says:
Aug 6, 2009
who is the model photographied with a hat
pincus says:
Jun 21, 2010
I am proud of you!
Not sure about your movie preference and I prefer M. Hulot’s Holiday, but agree: never trust a man with leathergloves!
pincus says:
Aug 27, 2010
congratulations on your plans to get married to the girl who introduced you to Czech photography … and all my good wishes.
Rejoice!
bea says:
Jun 29, 2011
Willem has always had a great eye for style and fashion – I can remember him at 6 years ol commenting on a particularly rare shade of Chanel lipstick I was waering! But totally unpretentious and very genuine. Congrats on your wedding to the lovely Stania! Health and Happiness!