There's a particular kind of magic that happens when someone sees the world through a perpetually adjusted lens and Lisa Suki has spent years mastering that vision. Split between the canal-lined charm of Amsterdam and Jakarta's kinetic energy, the fashion photographer and clothing curator has built a career on chasing light, movement, and those fleeting, decisive moments that make street style sing. With a camera always within arm's reach and a passport that's seen more stamps than most people's wish lists, Lisa approaches every frame with the same effortless ease she brings to her personal style: laid-back, considered, never trying too hard. Whether she's navigating the chaos of fashion week or finding poetry in everyday corners of her favorite cities, she's the kind of creative who makes you want to see the world a little differently, preferably through a 50mm lens.

What kind of moment makes you stop and go, okay, I need this shot?

Golden sunlight casting shadows on a face, scenery that feels from another time, and colour palettes that remind me of Wong Kar Wai films. The best pictures often happen right after the shoot is finished, when the model releases the posing and melts back into herself.

On the runway, backstage, or the streets of fashion week—where do you feel most at home with your camera?

On the streets of a fashion week. Photography has shaped my personal style. Through the lens I am not interested in trends or beauty standards, but in details, aura, and authenticity. Milan is my favorite city to photograph because sensuality in the way women dress still exists over there and is respected.

What’s the most last-minute trip you’ve taken just for a photo?

Flying to South-Korea to shoot a look book in a Hanok village during snow. Moving through Seoul during that time felt like a fever dream. After the shoot, the team shared a meal together at a traditional pocha and it was one of those moments where work feels just like being at home. 

Do you remember the first time you felt proud of a photo you took?

During a campaign where I handled creative direction, casting, styling, and photography myself. Having full control allowed me to translate ideas directly into image. Growing up in a small town, fashion existed only in magazines. So recreating the atmosphere of early 2000s perfume ads felt like a little girls dream to me.

What’s your favorite photograph you’ve taken, and why?

This is one of my faves because it was taken on my first solo trip to Milan in 2021. Her style is timeless and I still run into this picture on Pinterest.

When you’re shooting for big brands, what do you care about most?

Integrity. I work with a large beauty brand and choose not to retouch those images, because I know that’s what (young) girls need to see more of.

Name three makeup items you always carry for touch-ups on workdays.

A tinted lip balm from Peripera, sunscreen from COSRX, and a combination of Narciso Rodriguez and Le Labo fragrance.

What keeps you excited about fashion, even when it moves so fast?

Clothing is emotional. It holds memory, culture, and identity. My most meaningful piece is a Christian Dior denim saddle bag from the Galliano era, bought secondhand with my first savings. John Galliano is still my favorite designer. 

What’s something photography has taught you about women?

That we’re most beautiful when we let go of control and performance. I can immediately see if the model is comfortable and if she trusts me.This understanding came from years of shooting girls who eventually became friends as well.

Which “it-girl” movie character did you look up to the most?

Anna Karina in Pierrot le Fou. She’s playful and messy in a poetic way and embodies absolute freedom: emotionally, sexually, and intellectually.

What are your sun, moon, and rising signs?

Cancer sun, Libra moon, Libra rising.

Where are you hoping your camera takes you next?

To meeting many more beautiful souls here in Indonesia. I want to use my camera more to connect with kids and elders, people that are not in my usual circle. And make a connection with them through a language we both understand.

Who inspired you to be the person you are today?

My mom. She showed me to not care what others think and that being a little crazy is better than being boring.