Culture Waks in Athens for Greece is
On a photography assignment in Athens for Greece Is magazine, I embarked on a culture walk in Athens that transcended the usual tourist route. My camera traced hidden alleys, bold street art, and architectural dialogues between ancient and contemporary — a visual narrative of a city in constant evolution. The resulting reportaz ties together art, memory, and modern identity, through a lens both curious and observant.
Starting from the pulse of Syntagma and the National Gardens, the walk led me through neighborhoods where walls speak louder than guides. Graffiti, murals, fragments of modern sculpture — all part of Athens’ living canvas. In this journey I was particularly drawn to EMST, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, whose curatorial vision anchors Athens’ dialogue with international art discourses. The museum, housed in the former FIX brewery, hosts a permanent collection of 172 works by 78 Greek and international artists, including Costas Varotsos, whose glass “Varotsos Runner” sculpture punctuates the cityscape with spectral motion.
My lens captured how Varotsos’s The Runner (Δρομέας) seems to sprint through urban time — a fitting symbol for a city always in flux. At one point, I paused in front of its fractured glass plates, letting light refract into visions of Athens’ past and possible futures.
Among the highlights was a striking work by Athens-based artist INO, whose large-scale graffiti injects social commentary and a bold visual identity into the city’s urban fabric
Throughout the walk, I also reflected on how the journalistic and cultural ecosystems intersect. My images will accompany the Greece Is story, contributing to its immersive quality, while I aim to engage larger audiences—readers of Kathimerini will recognize the city’s ongoing conversation with culture and reportage.
Katerina Evangelatos for GB magazine
Every portrait carries a story, a summary about the one you have in front of your lenses. My recent photoshoot with Katerina Evangelatos was one of those moments where art, personality, and space came together seamlessly. Photographing her for Grand Bretagne magazine of Grande Bretagne Hotel at the Athens Epidaurus Festival — a space she has shaped with her vision was not just about capturing an image, but about reflecting the depth of her artistic and technical knowledge.
Katerina Evangelatos is one of the most dynamic figures in contemporary Greek theater. As Artistic Director of the Athens Epidaurus Festival, she redefined what the festival could be: a living dialogue between tradition and modernity, a celebration of drama, music, and performance that speaks to the present while echoing the past. In our conversation and during the shoot, I could sense how deeply she embodies both the intellectual rigor and the aesthetic sensitivity that theater demands.
What fascinated me most was her ability to hold together the vastness of the festival — productions ranging from ancient Greek drama to experimental contemporary works — while never losing her focus on the human side of performance. She spoke in her interview about theater as a “breath of fresh air and a provocation,” and I wanted to let that duality shine through in her portraits: the calm determination, the youthful energy, and the elegance of someone who leads with both mind and heart.
For me, photographing the portrait of Katerina in the festival space was like placing her back into the canvas she herself has painted over the years. The architectural lines, the light, and the history of the Athens Epidaurus Festival became a frame to highlight her presence — a woman of vision, aesthetic clarity, and technical mastery.
As a portrait photographer in Athens, Greece, my aim is always to connect the environment, the subject, and the inner story. With Katerina Evangelatos, this connection happened naturally. Her portraits are not just images of a director, but reflections of a woman who has reimagined how Greece tells its stories on stage, and who continues to inspire with her balance of strength, creativity, and elegance.
Johanna Korantzopoulou
Johanna Korantzopoulou is a yoga instructor whose practice embodies the perfect balance of strength, grace, and inner power. Through this photography series of yoga portraits, my artistic goal was to go beyond documenting physical poses — I wanted to visually express the quiet force, resilience, and feminine energy that define Johanna’s presence on and off the mat.
I believe that yoga photography must capture not just movement, but emotion. Johanna moved with a seamless flow, demonstrating how each posture is not merely a shape, but a living expression of breath, intention, and self-awareness. With each image, I sought to translate the subtle connection between body, mind, and spirit into an artistic narrative that celebrates the transformative power of yoga.
A central element of this project was highlighting woman power in yoga — the way feminine strength expresses itself through both softness and intensity, through vulnerability and discipline. Johanna’s energy in front of the camera is magnetic: strong yet fluid and confident. This duality is something I strive to bring out in all this yoga photography work, crafting portraits that honor not only physical form but also personal journey and inner resilience.
The setting we chose was intentionally minimal, allowing natural light and movement to shape the atmosphere. Every detail — from the curve of the hands to the extension of the spine — was composed to reflect the artistry inherent in yoga practice. As a photographer, I am always drawn to projects where I can merge technical precision with emotional depth, and this collaboration with Johanna offered exactly that.
Maria Papadopoulou
This photoshoot with Maria Papadopoulou took place at the modern offices of Ant1 Group in Athens. The project was created for ACCA’s AB Magazine, accompanying an inspiring feature about women in business and leadership. Maria Papadopoulou’s story, published under the title Leaning In, highlights her role in the media and finance world, and the valuable perspective she brings to both fields.
Authentic and professional portraits of a woman in her natural working environment. The Ant1 Group offices offered a bright and structured backdrop that reflected both modern business culture and the personal strength of the subject. Through careful use of natural light and thoughtful composition, the portraits aimed to balance a sense of authority with a human, approachable tone — the same balance that defines women leaders like Maria.
Photographing women in business roles is always an opportunity to create portrait photography that moves beyond the surface. In this commercial woman photoshoot, the focus was on Maria’s presence and personality as much as on her professional identity. Every detail — from the background to the lighting and her expression — was chosen to highlight her role as a decision-maker in a competitive and evolving industry.
You can see the full feature article and read more about her professional journey in AB Magazine’s February 2025 issue here.
This woman corporate photoshoot was designed to capture not only the face of modern leadership but also the essence of women shaping the future of business.
Clean Monday
Clean Monday in Aegina: A Seafood Feast at Skotadis for Gastronomos Magazine.
At Skotadis ouzeri in Aegina, alongside chef Periklis Koskinas, we welcomed Koulouma with exceptional seafood meze that capture the essence of the sea.
The day began at Aegina’s historic fish market, where fishermen and vendors showcased their daily catch. The market, in operation for over a century, is a hub of fresh seafood. Among the stalls, clams, mussels, octopus, shrimp, and squid glistened on ice, a testament to the island’s rich fishing grounds. Giorgos Lykouris, the owner of Skotadis, guided us through the market, emphasizing the importance of freshness and responsible fishing. “We only take the fish of the day,” he explained.
With baskets full, we walked the short distance to Skotadis, a legendary ouzeri by the sea. Established in 1945 as a café for fishermen, it evolved into an ouzeri in the 1980s, gaining fame under Lykouris’ ownership. Its menu respects tradition while embracing subtle modern influences, offering dishes best paired with ouzo and aged tsipouro from Lykouris’ extensive collection.
In the kitchen, Koskinas, along with Marios Korovesis and Skotadis’ head chef Sotiris Lampadarios, prepared an array of seafood delicacies. Juicy octopus, fried mussels, cuttlefish with spinach, and taramosalata—all crafted with fresh ingredients and a deep respect for seasonality.
As a photographer, capturing this experience was about more than just food photography. It was about telling a story through images—documenting the vibrant textures of fresh seafood at the market, the hands of the fishermen and cooks at work, the lively conversations over a shared meal, and the stunning coastal landscape that framed it all. Through this series of photographs, I wanted to preserve the essence of Aegina’s culinary tradition, the warmth of its people, and the way food connects us to place and memory.
As the dishes were plated, we gathered at a seaside table, clinking glasses of ouzo and tsipouro in celebration of Koulouma and the simple joy of sharing great food.
Chief Editor Aggelos Redoulas
Text by Nikoleta Makrionitou
Assist Adonis Kavouris
Photo editor Nasia Diamantidi
Summer Wine Memories
Summer Vacation Wine List is a visual storytelling project for Oinochoos Magazine of Kathimerini News that blends the flavors of fine wine with the essence of summer and the poetry of memories. Picture a serene Greek island, where sun-drenched days stretch lazily into golden evenings.
At the heart of this narrative is a vibrant, free-spirited woman in her early 30s, savoring the simplicity of a summer escape. Her love for wine is more than a taste—it’s a connection to the moments that shape her journey. A chilled white wine mirrors the crisp morning light as she strolls barefoot along the shoreline. A bold red accompanies the laughter of an intimate sunset gathering. Each sip becomes a chapter, every title a memory, blending emotions and flavors into a sensory tapestry of sun, sea, and time well spent.
This project invites the viewer into her story, where wine is not just a drink but a companion to life’s most cherished experiences—an aromatic bridge between taste and memory, weaving summer’s essence into moments that linger long after the season fades.
From the magazine’s intro
“What does it take to create the ultimate wine list for the summer? A team consisting of sommeliers, master sommeliers, oenologists and journalists, taste and recommend a mix of 50 Greek producers. High quality wines from different varieties, winemaking styles. Wines with unique characteristics. We wrote short stories about them for the summer”.
Special Thanks to all the contributors
Chief editor Nena Dimitriou
Set Design & styling Rosa Karac
Girl Eirini Galani
Assist Antonis Kavouris
Production & Location Nasia Diamantidis
And all the friends and family members from Aegina Island that opened their homes and hearts to us. Athina Pikioni & Aris Sorris, Anthe Loizos, Kaiti Giannouli, Panagiotis Marinis.
Man of Stone
Man of Stone is a photographic project - tribute to humanity's enduring relationship with nature, spanning from prehistoric times to the present day. This connection, initially driven by the need for survival, evolved through imagination and creativity. Stone and wood served as the primary materials for crafting tools, building shelters, and creating structures that supported sustainable living for thousands of years.
In modern times, reconnecting with nature is equally vital—not just for physical survival but for mental and spiritual well-being. By embracing this awareness, individuals can rediscover the forms and textures of nature, sparking imagination and enhancing their perception of the world. When imagination leads to action, life can transform through new choices and sustainable ways of living.
The Artists
The photographs represent a creative dialogue between photographer Dimitris Vlaikos and sculptor Panayiotis Marinis. Marinis, a master craftsman and the last traditional sculptor of his kind, carves ancient tools as objects of art. Using only natural materials sourced near his home, he applies the same methods and techniques employed by his ancestors 30,000 years ago. His work is a living testament to history, bridging the past and present.
In addition to still-life photographs of Marinis's tools, the collaboration took Vlaikos and Marinis to the hills of their shared homeland, Aegina Island. There, they explored and documented the enduring stone footprints left by their ancestors—a profound connection between history and the land.
Stainless Steel Griddle Production for Gastronomos
Behind the Scenes: Capturing the Craftsmanship of Greek Steel Cooking Utensils for Gastronomos Magazine
I recently had the privilege of collaborating with Gastronomos magazine to document the intricate process behind creating one of the most essential tools in traditional Greek cooking—the Stainless Steel Griddle. This classic piece of cookware holds a special place in Greek gastronomy, and my goal was to capture the artistry and craftsmanship that go into its making in Athens.
The photoshoot spanned three historic machinery workshops in Athens, each with its own unique expertise. At Machinery Workshop Pascalidis, I observed master artisans shaping the raw materials with precision and care. Over at Machinery Workshop Kotzamanoglou, the focus shifted to the delicate balance between traditional methods and modern machinery, where every piece is crafted to perfection. Finally, at Machinery Workshop Sfiga, the final touches were added, showcasing the skill and attention to detail that make these steel utensils stand out.
The experience provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of Greek steel cooking utensils, revealing the dedication and craftsmanship behind these everyday kitchen tools. A big thank you to Gastronomos Magazine for the opportunity to be part of this unique project.
"What is the history of the stainless steel griddle and what is its role in Greek life? What pan do we choose for our roasts? copper, ceramic, aluminum, enamel or cast iron? Where will we cook our old copper utensils and where will we order new ones? What is tin and why is it the ideal pie stainless steel griddle? In the September issue, Gastronomos examines the subject of "Tapsi" from all sides, customary, cultural and culinary, and collects 60 incredible recipes for the best baked family and holiday meals.
Each place and its stainless steel griddle
We have collected the best recipes of the stainless steel griddle, from every corner of Greece, from the Caspian lamb of Lemnos and the continental chicken with rice, to the exuberant pasha macarouna, the kleftiko of Roumeli and the Kalamatian pork poula.
Filled, turlou or juvetsi?
Do we bake juveccia with couscous, noodles, macaroni or with classic barley? We learn what juvetsi is, why they call it that and what is its ideal vessel. We stuff peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, flowers and onions and present the most beautiful stuffings of Greek cuisine.
We travel back in time to find out where he got his hat from, what his name means and we recommend incredible turlous with fish, pulses, octopus.
The nicest Sundays need a roasting stainless steel griddle.
Is it Sunday dinner without chicken in the oven with potatoes? Without a honeyed moussaka, pastiche or without a leg of lamb with seared skin? If you think about it, our best Sunday meals are baked in the oven!
Pan Sweets: Dips in Syrup
Doughs and syrupy sheets, honeyed sweet pies and milky desserts, all in the pan and all delicious and aromatic.
And as always: Recipe of the Month – We return refreshed and rested and set the daily table with the best and freshest September products.
The September "Gastronomos" is released on Sunday, September 8, with "Kathimerini".
Boston University College of Fine Arts
The Intersection of Photography and Sculpture: Capturing Sculptor Robert Bodem
Personal Reflection: The Art of Capturing a Sculptor
As a photographer, the opportunity to capture a sculptor like Robert Bodem offers a unique challenge and a beautiful intersection of two art forms. Just as Robert shapes clay to create form, I use light, shadow, and composition to shape an image. The parallels between our crafts were undeniable during the photoshoot. Sculptors and photographers alike work with space, form, and texture, relying on an instinctive understanding of how to turn raw material—whether physical or visual—into something profound.
There’s a delicate dance between the subject and the camera when photographing an artist, especially one whose entire being is rooted in the physical creation of art. With Robert, I sought to emphasize the hands, the expressions, and the pauses between moments—those fleeting gestures that seem to embody his sculptural philosophy.
Robert Bodem’s Philosophy: Drawing in Space
Robert Bodem’s work is deeply rooted in the concept of “drawing in space,” a philosophy that transcends traditional sculpture. As he shared in his interview for the College of Fine Arts magazine, Robert sees sculpture as a way to create dynamic, living forms, often suspended between stillness and movement. His sculptures are not just static objects but explorations of form, designed to engage the viewer from every angle.
In his words, “Sculpture is about the negative space as much as it is about the object itself.” This thoughtful balance is central to his art, where the spaces between forms are just as vital as the material used to create them. The interview explores his journey as an artist, from his rigorous training to his teaching at the Florence Academy of Art, where he helps others discover their potential in capturing the human form in space.
Photographing Robert Bodem for Boston University’s College of Fine Arts magazine was not only a personal artistic journey but also a meaningful collaboration with an institution dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists. The opportunity to work with the College of Fine Arts allowed me to contribute to an environment where creativity is cultivated and celebrated.
Capturing Robert’s portrait and sculpture work was more than just a photoshoot —it was about telling a story that would resonate with young, aspiring artists. Through these images, I hope to inspire students to push their creative boundaries, to see art in the spaces between forms, and to understand that every gesture, like every stroke of the sculptor’s hand, holds the potential for profound expression. I believe these portraits will serve as a reminder that creativity knows no limits and that art, whether through photography or sculpture, has the power to inspire and transform.
For a deeper dive into Robert’s journey and the photoshoot, you can view the full interview and images in the latest issue of the Boston University College of Fine Arts magazine cover.
Spiri Coffee Campaign
In today's fast-paced world, finding a moment of tranquility and indulgence can be a rare treat. That's where Spiri coffee comes in. Through the delightful roasting, coffee is not just your average cup of joy—it's an experience. From the first sip to the last drop, Spiri coffee takes you on a journey of flavor and aroma like no other. In Spiri Coffee, after researching the roasting needs of each coffee and in order to create unique profiles that highlight its characteristics to the maximum, we have chosen a roasting machine whose innovative stainless steel construction and hot air roasting process ensure pure tasting results and stable roasting profiles.
