What happens when you pick up a camera and see not just the world but yourself—your fears, your desires, your truth—coming into focus? For Enrique, a 24-year-old photographer who grew up in Brussels and now calls Berlin home, photography became his way of understanding who he was and who he could be.

Photography, for Enrique, is more than art; it’s a rebellion and a revelation. Raised in a conservative, working-class family, he picked up his first camera as a lifeline—a way to explore his identity, challenge societal norms, and give life to his fantasies. His portraits invite us into a world where intimacy meets fantasy, and self-discovery becomes a quiet but powerful act of rebellion.

In this interview, Enrique reflects on how creativity shaped his journey, the moments that defined his identity, and the electric connection between art and authenticity. Because sometimes, the truest version of ourselves comes into focus only when we dare to create it.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Enrique, I am 24 years old, born and raised in Brussels and recently moved to Berlin. I studied graphic design and started with photography 4 years ago.

I’m a photographer that portrays queer people, lovers and friends in all forms. Documenting intimacy. Influenced by fashion, makeup, cinema I also tend to make personas, fantasies alive. 

How would you describe yourself as creative?

My work is definitely linked to my self discovery. In fact I used photography as a tool to understand my sexuality and visualize my fantasies. It was crucial for me to understand what I was attracted to. Studying it through the lens made it more clear.

What was your inspiration for this editorial, and how did it evolve throughout the process?

When I started planning this editorial, I was drawn to the idea of something goth, punk, and a little rebellious. But as the vision took shape, it became less about the aesthetic and more about the person at the center of it, Gigi, one of my closest friends. 

We met shortly after I moved to Berlin, and photographing him felt like an extension of our connection, a way to explore his confidence and sensuality through lingerie. Watching him embrace his body and identity during the shoot was transformative not just for him, but for me, too. It was as if the lingerie gave him a kind of power, a quiet yet undeniable affirmation of who he is.

Inspired by Ann Demeulemeester’s deconstructed and rebellious style, I played with pale tones and gothic influences to bring a cold, otherworldly edge to the shoot. But the real story was Gigi: the way he owned every frame, blending strength with vulnerability, turning this into something much bigger than just a photoshoot. It was about self-expression, self-acceptance, and the courage to exist unapologetically. And for me, it was a privilege to capture it.

Can you describe how you first began to understand and explore your sexuality growing up? Were there any pivotal moments during your formative years that shaped your understanding of your sexual identity?

I’ve always been attracted to boys. It has always been an evidence. Facing it was a different experience. I gave myself the chance to fully embrace my sexuality when I got my first camera. This tool made me feel more curious about male bodies. I allowed myself to feel attracted to guys. Focusing on body parts, positioning the models, set designing to bring bodies and lights together. It made me come into an euphoric phase that made me understand that it was right.

How did societal or cultural expectations around gender and sexuality impact your journey of self-discovery?

I come from a working class family, somewhat conservative. Where family has the power on gender and sexual affirmation. Heterosexuality was the only way to face the world. Being a man. Obsessing about girls. But everything changed when I decided to take the power back and see my world differently.

How do you use photography as a tool to address and challenge societal norms around sexuality and identity?

Photography is and will always be a political statement. Simply by portraying my fantasies, I make a difference. 

Looking back on your journey, what advice would you give to someone struggling to reconcile their identity with societal norms?

Take the time to truly understand yourself, there’s no rush, no need to have everything figured out all at once. Sexuality, gender, and self-affirmation can evolve throughout your life, and that’s not just okay, it’s beautiful. The key might be finding a tool that helps you express yourself, something that feels like a safe space to explore and reflect. Whether it’s art, drag, lingerie, writing, photography, or something else entirely, having that outlet can be transformative. What matters most is being true to who you are, allowing that truth to come through in whatever form feels most authentic to you, today, tomorrow, and in the years ahead.

Photography:
Enrique Vasquez-Heredia Nikiema
Model:
@gigiteque