My name is Willy Van Thillo, and I was born in 1979 in the charming country of Belgium, where I now reside in the picturesque town of Mol.

My journey with cameras began at the tender age of 11, a passion that has only deepened over the years. I embarked on my professional photography career in 2007, immersing myself in the exhilarating world of motorsports and bike tests for diverse publications, companies, and manufacturers around the globe.

For many years, I balanced my work as a photographer with private portrait sessions, leading to whirlwind periods that often overshadowed my creative spark. The mounting pressure took its toll, and I gradually found myself drifting away from what I loved. In a pivotal moment, I decided to sell all my equipment, including my beloved studio, and kept only one camera, which I used sparingly.

After stepping away from photography for a few years, I rediscovered my passion in 2020 with the Leica M camera. These iconic devices, renowned throughout history, transported me back to the roots of photography and reignited the creative flame within me. This new chapter has inspired me to embrace my artistic voice once again, infusing my life with the joy and wonder of capturing the world through my lens.

The sun’s light can breathe life into the darkest corners and accentuate the beauty within every individual. As a passionate photographer, I strive to seize those fleeting moments that hold special significance, transforming them into lasting memories.

In 2023, I embarked on a thrilling journey by merging my Canon cameras with my cherished Leica M models for my photography work. However, I soon discovered that the Leica M was a bit too delicate for my nature, wildlife, and landscape photography. Despite this, I still treasure my Leica M10 and Leica M Monochrome, which I expertly wield for street photography and various other creative endeavors.

I found great inspiration in the Canon R3, paired with its stunning prime lenses. There’s something truly magical about working with prime lenses; their exceptional quality transforms each shot into a work of art. The lenses in my arsenal include the luminous 50mm F1.2, the impressive 180mm, the versatile 300mm F2.8, and the powerful 500mm F4. Each one helps me capture the breathtaking image quality that fuels my passion for photography.

As 2024 unfolded, I made a bold decision to dive into the world of medium format photography, embracing the iconic Hasselblad cameras of the V system, including the time-honored tradition of shooting with film rolls. This new chapter promises to elevate my artistry to new heights and open doors to endless creative possibilities.

There may be more to come and discover.