Philip Frowein – Best Portfolio

At the portfolio review held at the Haus der Photographie in Hamburg's Deichtorhallen, Philip Frowein secured himself second place. The award ceremony was on December 5. LFI spoke with Frowein about the conclusion of his studies and tips from his parents.


What expectations did you have from the portfolio review?

The most important thing for me was to step outside the ivory tower that was my college. And, of course, as I am aiming for a career as a professional photographer, I was also hoping to make a few connections.


Which of your photos did you present – and which didn't you show?

I applied to Best Portfolio with the pictures from my bachelor thesis Blind Alleys. Beyond that, I was pretty generous with the selection I made for my portfolio. I showed my two reviewers the commissioned work I've done, as well as my own personal projects. At the portfolio walk, where all the reviewers get to evaluate your work, I limited myself to my personal material.


What was the silliest bit of advice you ever heard?

When my parents used to say, “Do whatever you want”. On the whole, that landed me in a mess.


What are your plans for the future?

This month I'm moving back from Bielefeld where I studied, to the Bodensee and my daughter. There I want to do as much magazine work as I can and also continue working on my own photo projects. Then there's also a film about a jazz musician, which I began to film this autumn when I was spending time in the USA. That will also keep me busy over the next two years.