Marc Lagrange (Kinshasa, 1957 – Tenerife, December 25, 2015) ended his engineering career in the nineties to devote himself to his true passion: photography. He is now considered one of the most renowned photographers in Europe.
Filled with longing and sensuality, Marc Lagrange’s photographs celebrate fantasies and desire—placing beauty and dreams at the center of his world. Born in Kinshasa, Congo, in 1957, Lagrange transitioned from engineering to photography, and his creativity evolved from fashion to art.
Preferring analog over digital, the Antwerp-based Belgian artist seeks intimacy and emotion rather than artificial effects. His giant Polaroids—which have been exhibited worldwide—exemplify his craft and attention to detail: they capture the texture of skin, highlight natural curves, and make his models stand out. Lagrange meticulously creates entire sets to find the exact mood he wishes to convey. Every detail, from the color of the walls to the shape of a chair, contributes to his perfectionist approach and his intent to unfold narratives.
Throughout his career, Lagrange photographed the same women over different periods, turning them into his muses. Individuals who pose in front of Lagrange’s lens often end up spontaneously performing and revealing more about themselves than they perhaps intended. One thing Lagrange respects is the mystery and power of women: even fully nude, his models are confident and in control; real protagonists as opposed to passive figures.