Davis D. Sakne is a creative director & photographer splitting his time between Riga and Paris. His ethereal images make you want to become Tilda Swinton walking around a southern Italian town in a flowing outfit when you grow up.
How did growing up in Latvia shape your taste, artistic perspective, and approach to life in general?
I was BOI was born in Saldus, a small city about ninety minutes from Riga. My father wasn’t around, so I was raised by women — my mother, grandmother, and godmother. I had no manual for how to be a man. At eighteen, I moved to Riga and started to figure it out on my own, which I’m still doing. I wanted to see as much as I could, meet as many people as I could — I thought it would help me choose the right path. It did. Now I travel lighter. Fewer detours.
What do you look for in the frame? What is more important, storytelling or visual aesthetics?
I was BOPhotography is the one place I don’t have to explain myself. I watch. I pay attention. Sometimes I find something I didn’t even know was there. I can linger in the past, stay present, or be somewhere else entirely.
Do you remember the first photo you took that made you feel, "This is what makes me feel good"? What was the story behind it?
I was BOI got into photography while working in the publishing industry. I had the vision; someone else took the shot. One day, we were interviewing a photographer, and I thought it would be interesting to switch roles. I asked how the camera worked — he showed me, and I took the shot. Something about it made me want to prove to myself I wasn’t just lucky.
How has your creative process evolved over the years, and what remains constant no matter the project?
I was BOFailing helps… self-doubt, too. I take both as a gift. I usually work with clients who trust me, so there isn’t much room for direction. I’d like to keep it that way.
What about street photography? Is it alive and kicking, or now that everyone with a phone is kind of a street photographer, are there just too many images created every second?
I was BOI’m not sure street photography is the right box for me. I don’t follow the scene. For me, photography isn’t just taking pictures. The time I’m not taking them is often more valuable — even if I see a shot. Walking, I watch what’s around me and what it does to me.
What does a typical day look like for you when you're wearing both the photographer and creative director hats?
I was BOFor now, I wear both hats only in Paris. My day starts with a small coffee and bitter orange marmalade on yesterday’s bread. On the way to the showroom, I stop at Père Lachaise Cemetery — my happy place — to warm up the camera. At the showroom, another coffee. Then whatever’s on the list: interiors, objects, portraits. When the job’s done, I walk in some unknown direction until it’s time for dinner with friends at Le Square Trousseau.
How do you stay inspired creatively in a visually oversaturated world? Are there artists, places, or rituals that recharge you?
I was BOI swim. I go to Italy. That’s it. In between, I stay quiet, listen, and keep the door open.
Riga has a unique atmosphere – how would you describe it?
I was BORiga’s quiet until it isn’t. Old enough to know things, young enough to argue still.
Perfect way to spend a Saturday in Riga?
I was BOAt home with the people I like. You’re welcome over anytime.
Interview by Anne VetikImages of Davis by Silver MikiverPhotography by Davis D. Sakne