of the people, and I try to capture that.”
I Didn’t Dream of Being a Photographer, But Now I Can’t Imagine Doing Anything Else
Nikk Martin, the Berlin-based visual artist, never thought he would end up behind the lens. But as he tells Hypebeast, the camera has given him a new perspective on life. “It’s allowed me to slow down, to really see people and connect with them,” he explains. And that feeling has been his driving force ever since.
Capturing Intimate Moments with Nikk Martin
Known for his evocative photography style, Martin’s portfolio is filled with intimate moments between his camera and his subjects. His unique use of color, often achieved through analogue photography and arduous film developing processes, sets his images apart. He covers a wide range of subjects, from still life to environmental landscapes and dynamic visuals.
Being Present and Reacting to the Moment
Martin’s approach to photography is all about being in the moment and paying attention to his surroundings. He believes that some of his best shots have come from simply letting go and being present. “Reacting to what’s really happening,” he says, “that’s where the magic is.”
Through the Lens: Paul & Shark’s Riviera Spring/Summer 2025 Collection
For the latest installment of Hypebeast’s Through the Lens video series, Martin was enlisted to capture the essence of Paul & Shark’s Riviera Spring/Summer 2025 capsule collection. The Italian label, founded in 1976, is known for its commitment to quality and its inspiration from the ocean. Martin’s distinct visual aesthetic was the perfect fit for this project.
In His Creative Element on the Island of Capri
As Martin heads to the scenic Italian island of Capri, the inspiration for the collection, it’s clear that he is in his element. “Water has this ability to mirror emotion,” he says, gazing out at the horizon. “And that’s how I want my work to feel, too.”
Photography as a Means of Connection
As he weaves through the streets of the old town, capturing candid shots of the public, Martin explains that for him, photography is all about connection. “It’s not about creating a moment, but witnessing it,” he says. And while he may direct his subjects to fit his vision, he believes that the most visually engaging shots come from simply feeling the light, the emotion, and the energy of the moment.
Creating a Space for Something Real to Happen
“I don’t really direct, I observe,” Martin says. “I wait and try to create a space where something real can happen.” His ability to capture the essence of a moment, to feel the energy and emotion, is what sets his work apart. And for Martin, that’s what photography is all about.
