Interview by Zeta Tzioti
Sten Kracht was born in 1953 in Oslo, Norway. His passion for photography began in the late 1970s, focusing at the beginning on bird photography—a specialization that demands patience, keen observation, and deep respect for nature.
He studied political science, philosophy, and anthropology at the University of Oslo, an education that shaped his broad and thoughtful approach to his subjects.
In 1982, he made his first visit to Greece, spending three months in Crete, where his profound connection with the country began. The following year, he traveled to Amorgos and Koufonisi, and in 1984, he stayed for a month in Kato Koufonisi, where he found the only available room to rent, as Pano Koufonisi was fully booked.
In 1985, he established a studio in Katapola, Amorgos, where he worked on printing both color and black-and-white photographs in preparation for his exhibitions. The studio closed down in 1991, and in 1995, he permanently moved from Katapola to Kato Koufonisi.
Sten Kracht’s vision, enriched by his academic background in science and philosophy, combines technical mastery with the depth of anthropological observation, imbuing the places and moments he photographs with a unique vitality and presence.
For him, Greece is a source of endless inspiration and a second homeland. He continues to explore and capture with his camera the country’s distinctive landscapes and inexhaustible beauty.
Our interview took place at his home on Kato Koufonissi.
-Sten, how did you come to Greece, and how did you start photographing here?
-I chose Greece, the country where Socrates was born. I was inspired by many things and tried to capture the impressions by writing. Then I discovered another technique, through the camera lens.
-Which is the role of light in your photography?
-Everything in photography is about the light, as the Greek word “φωτογράφος” defines.
-The Greek landscape is a fusion of light, history, and raw natural beauty. The contrast between ancient ruins and modern life, and the endless blues of the sea, create a canvas that’s both timeless and emotional. What is it about the Greek landscape that inspires your photography?
-The Greek landscape in the Cyclades has a visible sculptural shape. The absence of tall trees is the main reason for that. You can climb mountains and get magnificent views. Land, sky, and sea embrace man. He is unified with the three elements. That is a powerful feeling.
-What fascinates you about Greek statues and why do you photograph them so often?
-Ancient Greek sculptures are world famous because they are masterpieces of art. The marble sculpture is pure, silent, and eternal. I am trying to give these artworks a new life by focusing on details and playing with light and shadows.
-What criteria do you use to choose the people you photograph?
-I photograph people with whom I have a relationship. It is a two-way communication. I have been lucky to meet people who are very grounded in the land they live on.
-How did you create photographic effects before the digital era? Do you have a favorite technique?
-You can do multiple exposures on the same printing paper. It needs good handwork in order to look real. You can put one object into another context. I have not done this many times.
-What was the first work that made you feel your photography had a personal identity?
-The portrait of the old man drinking Greek coffee in Chora, Amorgos.
-You have photographed Mount Athos; what does this place mean to you?
-Mount Athos, with its many monasteries, is a powerful place thanks to the history, people, and nature. You have to be brave to choose a life there: 8 hours work, 8 hours sleep, and 8 hours praying.
-What is your favorite Greek island for photography and why?
-I prefer to stay a long time in a place. This makes it possible to discover the people and see the landscape from many directions and various light conditions. Different seasons are also very important. Follow the same landscape through changes of light, weather, and season. You have to live there. It takes time. Amorgos and Koufonisia.
-Can you describe the process behind the photograph where you combine the sea and an ancient statue?
-It is a photo of a copy of a Cycladic figurine taken in a studio on a black background. I wanted to add a new dimension to the figurine, looking down on the sandy waves on the bottom of the sea. I combined the first photo with an underwater photo of the sand waves.
-What role does the energy of a place play in your photographic inspiration?
-A very important role. You have to absorb that energy. That takes time sometimes.
-How do you perceive the difference between photographing people you know well and photographing statues or landscapes?
-You don’t have a dialogue with the sculpture. You have to focus on interpretation. The landscape is more challenging; you have to wait for the right light. The light of the sculpture is possible to control.
-Which of your exhibitions do you consider milestones in your career?
-Probably the exhibition in the Vigeland Museum in 1987.
-How does spending half of your life in Norway influence your work in Greece?
-I would like to reverse that question. Spending half of my life in Greece is adding a deeper understanding of my work and life in Norway. The Greek language is a basic tool to understand life and the world we live in.
-What advice would you give to young photographers who want to explore Greece through photography?
-Stay long and go deep in a place you choose. Far away from tourist hotspots.
-How did you end up living in Kato Koufonisi?
-It is a place with unique energy and beauty.
-How much has ancient Greek philosophy influenced your thinking and your work? How do you feel living in the country where Socrates was born, a philosopher who has greatly inspired you?
-Greece has given me great inspiration.
Snapshots from the ERTFLIX Show “Islands on the Edge” – Kato Koufonisi
To watch the full episode, click here.
