Meet the Moroccan Fashion Photographer Searching for the Soul
Through poignant sceneries celebrating his Moroccan heritage and seeking not to showcase the subject but rather their soul, fashion and street photographer Youssef Oubahou is reinventing portraiture
“When it comes to photography, I have a very specific vision and intention in mind. Through covering the subject’s face, I focus on representing their soul, rather than superficial beauty. I am creating my own unique approach to portraiture.”
For as long as he can remember, Moroccan street and fashion photographer Youssef Oubahou has been entranced by fleeting moments in time. As a child, the Moroccan artist found solace in capturing family gatherings and special occasions on video. Armed with his smartphone’s camera, Oubahou’s venture into photography and art sprouted from the soils of childhood. Oubahou’s natural talents began to shine through in his school’s art programs, where he stood out amongst his peers.'
“My artistic journey, from a childhood fascination with filming and photography to my role as a dedicated photographer and artist thus far has been marked by the exploration of creativity and the desire to bring people together in the pursuit of a brighter and more connected world,” Moroccan photographer Youssef Oubahou shares in an exclusive interview with SceneStyled.
It was after meeting his closest friend Ayoub that Oubahou truly discovered his calling. "It was definitely a pivotal moment in my life," Oubahou shares. Both young men shared a deep love for street photography, and they would spend nights practicing their craft. "We would just seize all the opportunities we had to capture all sorts of candid moments," says Oubahou. Back home, the duo would edit their photos and post selections to Instagram to share their visions. This partnership sparked Oubahou's dedication to honing his photography skills.
In 2020, with the world facing unprecedented challenges, Oubahou was determined to use his platform for good. "I decided to make use of the quarantine period and dedicate my photographic talents to spreading messages and hope within my community," Oubahou notes. "That whole project just allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and share my visions for a better world; one that is united where everyone lives in harmony," Oubahou remarks. His poignant images, a standout being a veiled, faceless model covering her head with a cage, and in the shadow, a bird flying free from it and aptly titled ‘Set Your Mind Free’, evoked era-appropriate symbolism, bringing comfort to Oubahou and others appreciating his work during 2020’s difficulties.
“I seek to send a message centered around pride in one’s roots, embracing one’s heritage, freedom, and self-expression.”
The roots of Oubahou's artistry run deep in Moroccan soil. "Morocco inspires me, always," he affirms. Traditional sceneries from his homeland frequently feature in his scenes and subject's attire, celebrating local culture. When conceptualizing new work, Oubahou's process begins with sketches to refine raw ideas. "I pay close attention to composition and color, and strive to keep my images simple and uncluttered," says the photographer. This methodology allows emotional themes to shine through anonymized portraits that strive to uncover not the subject, but rather their soul.
In fact, masking subjects' identity has become Oubahou's visual signature. "Through covering the subject's face, I focus on representing their soul, rather than superficial beauty," he elaborates. By abstracting physical traits, viewers can connect more profoundly with shared humanity. "Shifting focus away from appearance can be quite powerful and thought-provoking," Oubahou shares with SceneStyled. He aims to spark discussions embracing cultural roots and freedom of expression through thoughtful abstract imagery.
Oubahou's talent and unique vision are gaining international recognition, with global publications such Vogue commissioning him for fashion shoots. Oubahou hopes to showcase more world cultures using his signature 'sky' style portraiture. Despite discouragement suggesting photography lacked career viability, Oubahou persevered, believing in himself. "I always knew I had potential," he affirms proudly.
From a humble background to international acclaim, Oubahou continues to inspire creatives to embrace their passions, as he reinvents himself. "I want to take my art in new directions, like exploring photo documentaries," he muses. But above all, Oubahou will remain dedicated to using his growing platform to foster greater cultural appreciation and bring people together through the fleeting stories - and souls - captured by his lens.
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