Voiles

The regattas of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez are like Formula 1 in Monaco pit girls included. Majestic sailing yachts, the stuff of dreams, defy the forces of wind, water, and most of all, the sea. I’m not a sailor myself never have been but with a hint of envy, I often find myself wondering what it must feel like to experience such absolute freedom. As an outsider, I observed with fresh curiosity. I sought out elegant sailing vessels locked in friendly competition, with crews in uniform as it should be in any true team. You won’t find stereotypical action shots of sailors in my work; I prefer to leave those to the imagination. I’m drawn to the graphic, to the abstraction of movement. The energy and raw power these yachts unleash is deeply inspiring. But just as striking is the chaos that surrounds them: the dozens of speedboats filled with fans, photographers, and paparazzi swarming like hyenas around their prey during the regattas. My focus lies mainly on the classic yachts. I want time itself to dissolve when looking at my photos as if you’re no longer sure whether it’s 2025 or 1925. Most of these vessels were built in the early twentieth century. William Fife III, one of the most renowned yacht designers, gained fame for his distinctly elegant and recognizable style. There’s a palpable pride among the sailors lucky enough to work aboard these rare yachts. Tanned, competitive young men and women, sharp, focused, and driven. And among the older sailors, you see more character in their faces weathered and shaped by the unforgiving life at sea. What strikes me most is the passion and dedication required to function as a team in such tight quarters. Everyone knows their role. Many are professional sailors, often away from home for long stretches. The crew becomes their true family you sense it the moment they dock: wandering together through the charming streets of Saint-Tropez, playing a casual game of jeu de boules on the Place des Lices, and sharing an aperitif in one of the many lively local bars.