Depth of Field: Exploring Andreas Franke’s Artistic Horizons

Andreas Franke, a Graphis Master from Austria, has been captivating the world with his photographic artistry for over two decades. His reputation is built on a foundation of numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the “200 Best Photographers Worldwide” by Luerzer’s Archive. Franke’s portfolio boasts collaborations with iconic brands such as Ben & Jerry’s, Coca-Cola, Ford, GE General Electric, Gillette, Heineken, Nike, Visa, and Wrigley’s. His work is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and surreal effects, leaving no room for chance in his carefully crafted images. Beyond commercial success, Franke has also made a significant mark in the art world with his project “The Sinking World of Andreas Franke,” further establishing his creative genius.

Introduction by Blake Pearson, Founder, VISU Artists

I’ve had the privilege of knowing Andreas Franke, along with the Staudinger + Franke team, for many years. Their body of work is a testament to exceptional creative prowess and craftsmanship, as well as a remarkable level of photography and production, CGI, and post expertise. Their work possesses a simplicity that conceals the profound thoughtfulness and meticulous attention to detail that goes into every aspect. Staudinger + Franke possesses an incredible synergy of complementary skills, which is evident in the execution of each project they are called on to produce.

What inspired or motivated you to have a career in photography?

The desire to tell whole stories with pictures.

What is your work philosophy?

All or nothing. When I implement a project, I do it with the best possible team in the best possible location or whatever the concept needs to be brought to life and get the maximum impact.

What aspect of photography do you most enjoy?

You can catch a moment and tell great stories with only one visual. A picture is a stage, and no matter what you take, you give the person, the object, or the scene a unique character.

How would you describe your process?

In steps, I would say:

1. Hold the layout in hand.

2. Discuss with my team.

3. Discuss with my retoucher. Then, if needed, decide who could be the best CG operator for this image.

4. Add the best stylist, location scout, make-up artist, prop maker, or whoever is needed (depending on the project) to get a great and motivated team for the project.

What are the most important ingredients you require from a client to do successful work?

The outcome gets better if you have a strong concept, but often, the idea behind it gets more and more washed out by pretesting, and what is left over becomes too often a weak concept. Also, what makes the whole project a lot more complicated is if the post process becomes a never-ending one, so if the client can speak with one voice and gets integrated into the team, it works best.

What is your greatest professional achievement?

After 30 years in the business, I still love my job like I did on the first day I started my career!

What is the greatest satisfaction you get from your work?

The possibility to create images and earn money, doing that while I travel around the world, and get to know lots of different, creative people!

Andreas Franke has been in the business for more than 20 years. Besides Graphis, he has received countless awards from many organizations. For the Luerzer’s Archive, he was named among the “200 Best Photographers Worldwide.” He worked for great brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Coca-Cola, Ford, GE General Electric, Gillette, Heineken, Nike, Visa, and Wrigley’s. His still life photos and surreal effects are famous. In his pictures, every little detail is planned precisely. There is no space left for fortuity. With his project “The Sinking World of Andreas Franke,” he is also highly successful in the art scene.

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