A life for photography – René Staud "I immersed myself in the world of automotive photography quite by chance."
Swissvax: How did you get into automotive photography and what inspires you to capture the beauty of cars?
René: I got into the world of automotive photography quite by accident. It all started with my fascination with cars, which sparked my passion to capture their essence through my lens. The sheer beauty, intricate details and unique personality that each car possesses inspired me from a young age. For me, cars are more than just machines; they are works of art and I am passionate about showcasing their aesthetic appeal.
Swissvax: Have you ever thought about switching to people photography?
René: Although I'm only known for automotive photography, I've actually thought about working more with people whenever I've had models on set. Images of people can be just as fascinating as an exquisite car, but cars are more patient, they don't run away in frustration if the shooting day gets a little longer. And there's a whole other dimension to storytelling with people, that's an area I might want to explore one day.
Swissvax: Can you describe your creative process when photographing cars and how confident are you that you capture the true essence of the car in your images?
René: My creative process when photographing cars is a meticulous one. I start by studying the car thoroughly, understanding its design philosophy and identifying its character. I visualize the story I want to tell through the images. The setup, scenery and narrative all revolve around bringing out the full character of the car. Inspiration comes from numerous sources - from the history and origins of the car to the environment it is in. It's about capturing the synergy between the car and its surroundings.
Swissvax: What inspires you for the setup, scenery and story of the shoot?
René: The setup, scenery and story of each shoot are carefully considered to bring out the personality of the car. Sometimes I find inspiration in the origins of the car or the emotions it evokes. For example, if I'm photographing a classic Italian sports car, I might choose the picturesque Italian countryside as a backdrop. The story then naturally follows from that.
Swissvax: In your opinion, what role do car care products play in ensuring that the car appears in its best shape for a photo shoot? You have been using SWISSVAX products for several years. What made you choose SWISSVAX and how have the products helped you in your work?
René: Car care products are essential to ensure a car is in absolute top shape for a photoshoot. I have been using SWISSVAX products for several years due to their unmatched quality and dedication to preserving the beauty of cars. These products are a crucial part of my toolbox and help me maintain the flawless appearance of the cars I photograph. SWISSVAX allows me to achieve the level of perfection I demand in my work.
Swissvax: You have photographed some of the most iconic cars in the history of the automotive industry. What was your favorite car to photograph and why?
René: After all the many encounters with the greatest cars in the world, I can't define my "favorite car." Often, the perspective changes before or after the shoot, and it's only years later that you form an opinion. Only recently, years after the shoot, have I been very impressed by the picture "Pretty Woman," which was taken quite by chance and spontaneously in front of the hotel from the film of the same name, after a long and exhausting day of shooting in Los Angeles. I still like to think back to the creation and circumstances of this motif.
Swissvax: With over 50 years of experience in automotive photography, what do you think sets your work apart from other automotive photographers?
René: What sets my work apart from other automotive photographers is my uncompromising attention to detail and my deep connection to the subject. I have spent over five decades perfecting the art of automotive photography and I believe my passion and persistence shine through in every image. I view cars not just as objects, but as living, breathing beings with their own stories.
Swissvax: How do you see the development of automotive photography in the future and what role do you think technology will play?
René: The future of automotive photography is exciting and technologically driven. Advances in camera technology and post-production techniques are revolutionizing the field. Virtual reality and augmented reality could also play a significant role in how cars are presented to the world. However, the core of automotive photography will always be about capturing the soul and spirit of the car.
Swissvax: Can you share some stories behind your photo shoots and what challenges have you faced while photographing cars?
René: There are many behind-the-scenes stories in my work. I have faced various challenges, from unpredictable weather to demanding schedules. One memorable shoot involved a vintage car that was left abandoned and forgotten in the middle of nowhere. However, it later became the star of an improvised story and the image showed the resilience and character of the vehicle.
Swissvax: You are known for your exceptional attention to detail in your images. How do you approach post-processing and how do you ensure that the final image reflects the true beauty of the car?
René: Post-production is an art in itself. I approach it with the same dedication as photographing the car itself. It's about enhancing the natural beauty of the car while ensuring the final image does the subject justice. I meticulously work on fine details, colors and contrast to create a visual masterpiece that does the car justice.
Swissvax: What do you personally associate with “Care for your Dream”?
René: "Care for your Dream" has a deep meaning for me. My dream has always been to capture the essence of cars so that people see them as I do - as works of art. I nurtured that dream by dedicating my life to it, perfecting my skills and pushing the boundaries of automotive photography. "A live for photography" was actually a part of that dream, a way to bring my vision to life.
Swissvax: Finally, what can we expect from you and Staud Studios in the future, and what new projects are you currently working on?
René: The future holds exciting prospects for me as a photographer, for Staud Studios as a stage for the production and for Media Monks , the agency group with which our two sons Patrick and Pascal work. We are constantly exploring new avenues and pushing new boundaries in automotive photography. We are currently working with SWISSVAX on a photographer's wax that will revolutionize car care in the industry. Expect innovation, creativity and an unbridled commitment to capturing the beauty of cars in ways that inspire and amaze.
On September 21, 2023, the vernissage with René and his favorite pictures from all his creative years took place in the rooms of SWISSVAX AG. The pictures can be viewed freely or during the Car Art & Coffee or Car Art & Wine events.
