Storytelling Photography: Behind The Lens Of Gil Stunner
We had the privilege of interviewing Gil Stunner to understand what shapes his artistic vision and to hear his advice for aspiring photographers. Photography can go beyond beautiful and suggestive images; in fact, it is an art that can tell powerful stories, evoke emotions, and bridge cultural gaps. Gil Stunner, one of the featured artists in our curated photography collection, embraces storytelling through photography with a dynamic and cinematic style. Notably, Gil has been recognized for his humanitarian travels, which are featured in his profile on Photographize Mag, where he is also included in their annual book of Top 100 Emerging Artists in 2024. In this article, let's explore how he blends photography and storytelling through his humanitarian travels and unique background.
What Is Storytelling Photography?
Before gaining further insights directly from Gil, let's define what storytelling photography is. Unlike traditional photography, visual storytelling aims to convey a deeper message by sparking curiosity and inviting the viewer to engage with a photograph on a personal level. Through storytelling photography, a viewer can find empathy, establish a strong connection, and encounter new perspectives.
Q&A with Gil Stunner: The Artist's Vision
We had the privilege of interviewing Gil Stunner to understand what shapes his artistic vision and to hear his advice for aspiring photographers:
Your work is often described as cinematic, evoking deep emotion and narrative. How do you achieve that storytelling aspect in your photographs?
My storytelling approach is deeply rooted in my upbringing and experiences. Growing up in Lebanon, a country rich in natural beauty but also shaped by recurring conflict, taught me to see beauty in imperfection and rawness. These contrasting elements, serenity and chaos, shaped my artistic lens and are reflected in my work. In my early 20’s, I explored digital design in the fashion industry, which influenced my appreciation for editorial aesthetics, bold compositions, and dramatic fashion angles. Later, my years in the scouts hiking and camping raw in nature gave me a profound appreciation for organic storytelling and a sense of adventure. These layers combine to create the cinematic quality in my work; there’s always a narrative waiting to unfold, enhanced by a touch of hazy mystery that pulls the viewer into the story.
How have your humanitarian global travels influenced your artistic vision?
Traveling for humanitarian missions across the globe has expanded my perspective as both a person and an artist. Working with diverse communities and capturing their stories through my lens allowed me to connect deeply with humanity’s resilience, raw emotions, and cultural richness. These experiences taught me to see beyond the surface, to find beauty in the unspoken, and to honor the spirit of my subjects through storytelling. Whether it’s a quiet moment on the streets of Sierra Leone or the roaring action at The Race of Gentlemen, my photography celebrates the interplay between human emotion, environment, and timeless moments. These travels remind me that storytelling is universal; it bridges the gap between us, creating connections that transcend borders.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to tell stories through their craft?
Start by observing the world around you. Pay attention to the details, the light, the shadows, and the emotions of your subjects. Every scene tells a story; you just need to find the right angle to bring it to life. It’s important to immerse yourself in diverse experiences. Travel, explore different cultures, and interact with people from all walks of life. These interactions will shape your ability to tell authentic stories through your lens. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks. Experiment with angles, perspectives, and techniques until you find your unique voice. Storytelling is about making people feel something, and the best stories often come from the heart.
Connecting The Dots
Gil Stunner's photography is a way of forging connections through his work. His years in the fashion industry, combined with subsequent humanitarian travels, have shaped his unique approach to storytelling photography; a powerful medium that connects with the world around us on a raw emotional level. By adding contemporary wall art with a storytelling element to your space, you can transform your environment, infusing your office or home with meaning while elevating your surroundings with art that tells a story.