As a six-year-old boy, after much begging and a torrent of promises to be on his best behavior, Marek Sanak finally convinced his father to buy him a Smena camera — an extraordinary and truly exclusive treat for a child growing up in communist Poland. Unfortunately, no sooner had his request been granted than someone purchased the only remaining unit of the desired model, practically snatching it right from under his nose. Little Marek, traumatized by this experience, fled the shop and went missing for hours. Finally, his father, after an extensive search, found Marek in tears. However, rather than punish his son for running away and upsetting the family, he decided to reward his passion. He bought the next camera he could find, and this marked the beginning of Marek’s lifelong affair with photography. He would now indulge in creative adventures, shooting Aunt Basia in the shower, Grandpa caught napping with his mouth open, as well as a series of stunning sunrises over the nearby fields.

Much older now, he still approaches his photos with the pure childish awe that he would experience as that six-year-old boy. He still is as fascinated by images as he was as a child. And he perseveres in his constant quest in search of a way to express emotions concealed within the endless palette of contrasts between light and shadow. Studying light — that paint brush of photography — is his true passion.

For years, his main source of inspiration were street photography and portraits.

However, throughout the past few years he has focused on photographing landscapes and various other aspects of nature. This has proved to be an incredibly effective way of expressing his thoughts, emotions and aspirations.

Marek Sanak – born 1967, cinematographer and photographer. He graduated from the Faculty of Radio and Television of the University of Silesia in Katowice in the field of realization of television and motion picture. Already during his studies he made documentaries, television theatres, as well as productions of music concerts and festivals in Opole and Sopot. Thanks to his cooperation with brands such as Nissan, Ikea, Volkswagen, Samsung, Honda, Heineken, Skoda, T-mobile, Orange and Wedel, he is one of the most experienced and versatile cinematographers in the industry. His achievements include video clips for Kora, Dawid Podsiadło, Agnieszka Chylińska, Syny and many others, as well as short films. Winner of awards such as Camerimage Golden Frog 2010 and four-time KTR Advertising Creators Club Award.