Finn Dubbeld is a German photographer based in Hamburg, focusing on fashion and culture. After leaving photography school early, he began working at a full-service creative agency, where he bettered his skills in editing and filming. Since 2021, he’s been working as a freelancer, and has worked with brands such as Lacoste, Balletshofer and of course, O. FILES.
Do you have a pre-shoot ritual or routine that helps you lock in?
It starts with a good night’s sleep. Then it’s all about feeling comfortable—having a good shave, putting on a nice cologne, and wearing a fit that makes me feel good. I always prep everything the day before and scout the location ahead of time, so there are no surprises that could cost time.
You’ve worked with a lot of brands. How do you think that has affected your personal style?
Not really my visual style, but definitely my personality. After all these years, I know what I like, what looks good, and how to communicate that to the team. Photography is also a lot about directing—which means a lot of talking. To me, it’s a mix of standing your ground while staying open to input. And always being respectful—I hate disrespect. That’s the key.
You shot the SS25 campaign for O. FILES at Knothouse. What was it like working in that space?
It was kinda tricky. It’s a beautiful place, no doubt. But some locations just look better in real life than in pictures. It was a challenge to find interesting angles while still focusing on the clothes.
Finn in our everyday denim, black
You shoot film photography all over the world, how many rolls do you think you have lost to airport security scanners?
To be honest, I don’t shoot much on film. About 90% of my jobs are digital. So, I haven’t lost any rolls, but I have lost my patience with airport security scanners. They’re the worst, haha.
What’s your most memorable moment as a photographer?
At the beginning of this year, I shot a campaign that ended up on the cover of a major German newspaper. I know it’s not Vogue or Numéro, but it felt surreal walking through Berlin and seeing my photo in every Späti and at newspaper stands. On a personal level, it’s when people come up to me and say I inspire them. It’s a crazy feeling, because I never really think about the influence I might have. I’m always shook when it happens