Søren Solkær

Søren Solkær’s lens has captured more than just faces. It has captured souls. Right here in Copenhagen, Solkær has built a career on capturing the raw energy of musicians, the quiet contemplation of yogis, and the vibrant expressions of street artists. His studio, established in this city in 1996, became a hub for creativity, drawing in iconic figures like Björk, The White Stripes, and U2. Søren Solkær isn’t just a photographer; he’s a visual storyteller. His work transcends the typical portrait, delving into the essence of his subjects. He doesn’t simply take pictures; he creates cinematic experiences, each image imbued with a distinctive color palette and a palpable tension between intimacy and edginess. Søren Solkær’s work is a testament to his diverse influences. He draws inspiration from the surreal worlds of David Lynch and Wong Kar-wai, as well as the evocative works of photographer Philip-Lorca diCorcia and painter Caspar David Friedrich. This unique blend of influences is evident in his five published books. “Beat City” juxtaposes his early work with musicians against urban landscapes. “CLOSER,” a hefty 238-page volume, presents a collection of captivating musician portraits. “Souls” offers a glimpse into the meditative world of yogis in Rajasthan, India, a project spanning seven journeys and numerous exhibitions worldwide. “SURFACE” explores the dynamic world of street art and graffiti, while “Portraits 1993-2018” provides a comprehensive retrospective of his extensive career. Søren Solkær’s impact extends beyond individual portraits. He has shaped the visual identity of bands like The Raveonettes, even directing their music video for “Beat City.” His images have graced album covers for Franz Ferdinand and Stereophonics. His “CLOSER” exhibition in Copenhagen filled over 24,000 square feet with 327 images, earning critical acclaim and a nomination for best Cultural Event in 2009. Today, his photographs hold a place in the permanent collections of the Royal Danish Library and The National Portrait Collection at Frederiksborg Castle, a lasting tribute to his remarkable ability to capture the human spirit.