After spending his early career in public service, Benoît Colomb made a bold decision in his forties to pursue his true passion: photography. The self-taught photographer and videographer from Mende, in France's Lozère department, has transformed his love for the region's rugged landscapes and wildlife into a thriving artistic career. His stunning photographs of Lozère will be featured at the PhotAubrac festival in September, an annual event that attracts thousands of visitors.
Colomb chose his subject matter with unwavering certainty. "It will be Lozère and nothing else. It's a fascinating territory," he explains. For the past twenty years, he has been exploring the department extensively, yet he insists he hasn't covered it all. The region's diverse natural features - including the Causses plateaus, lakes, and rivers - have provided endless inspiration for his work. His dedication to the area culminated in a documentary titled "La Lozère," released in June, which he has been presenting in regional cinemas to consistently packed audiences.
His journey into photography began through family influence and technological advancement. "My father did photography, but I really got into it when digital technology arrived in the 2000s," Colomb recalls. For him, photography represents the art of observation. "I always say you shouldn't just look, but observe," he emphasizes. He begins by studying landscapes, and the photographs he will present at the PhotAubrac festival are titled "Tempête de silence" (Storm of Silence), featuring misty views of his native Lozère captured over five years of dedicated work.
As a self-taught artist without formal training, Colomb has developed his unique approach through patience and persistence. He values taking time to find the perfect lighting conditions. In recent years, he has ventured into wildlife photography, which has opened new dimensions in his artistic practice. His computer screen displays a striking example of his dedication: a kite captured in low-angle lighting after waiting ten days for the perfect shot.
Each photograph tells a compelling story, representing crucial moments in time. Speaking about a black and white deer photograph displayed on his wall, Colomb recounts: "I was camouflaged, and it positioned itself in front of me. It moved forward, then left." These suspended moments create lasting impressions. "These are photos that mark you for life. You get goosebumps. It's a unique moment. That's what I love about photography - translating those emotions to the viewer."
Colomb describes wildlife photography as "a face-to-face encounter," highlighting the intimate connection between photographer and subject. This philosophy drives his patient approach, spending days waiting for the perfect moment when animal and artist align in mutual recognition. His work demonstrates that successful wildlife photography requires more than technical skill - it demands understanding, respect, and an almost meditative patience.
The PhotAubrac Festival will take place from September 18 to 25, showcasing Colomb's five years of photographic work alongside other artists. His documentary "Lozère" continues to tour regional cinemas, celebrating the natural beauty and cultural significance of this remarkable French department. Through his lens, Colomb continues to reveal the hidden stories and breathtaking moments that define the wild heart of Lozère.
