The charm of the unexpected

When film photography offers a different perspective on Titlee.

There is something rather delightful about not being in control of everything. Especially when you spend your days choosing colors, adjusting details and checking that everything is exactly in its place.

For some time now, I have regularly given the photographer Agathe Perrin carte blanche to interpret Titlee on film.

The idea is not to photograph the jewelry the way one would for a catalog. I would rather give her the freedom to take the pieces elsewhere, to pair them with unexpected objects, to play with light, shadows and color.

There is something in her images that touches me particularly. A way of making ordinary things almost mysterious. A ball forgotten on a piece of furniture becomes an abstract composition. A cup of coffee, a study in light. A piece of jewelry slips into a scene without trying to draw all the attention.

Film adds its share of uncertainty. You don't check the result on a screen right away. You have to wait for the development, accept the surprises, the happy accidents, and sometimes images that look nothing like what you had imagined.

This is also what I like about this collaboration: discovering Titlee through someone else's eyes.

At a time when images are increasingly smooth, calculated and retouched, I like this small space left to chance.

Photographs: Agathe Perrin