The path to photography began, as so often in life, with a detour. Saskia tried to train as a physiotherapist, but dropped out. “I was suddenly more interested in photography than in muscles and bones.” She eventually completed a classic photography training course at an agency – and was already photographing three weddings a week – and her passion for this genre began.
Instagram was originally a catalyst for creativity for @oh_hedwig. "About two years ago I lost my creativity, I didn't know what to do with myself." She still fulfils the self-imposed task of posting a beautiful photo from her everyday life every day - hence the diary character of her gallery. Of course she stages them, but her photos have retained an aura of authenticity. "I don't go to a fancy café just to take a new Instagram picture," she says in the interview. She is more likely to have to build a shelf and drive to the hardware store to live out her creativity.
Saskia, who comes from a village near Magdeburg, often works with daylight at the window because her Berlin apartment is dark. Another focus is her bed and the most conspicuous constant is her red hair. All of her self-portraits, believe it or not, are actually selfies and absolutely every post is mobile only. She describes her style in three words: emotional, comfortable and authentic. She loves Tim Walker's photography books and Wes Anderson's films. Conversations with her creative friends are one of her biggest inspirations.
Meanwhile, some orders come through Instagram - @oh_hedwig chooses what suits her best - advertising photos for publishers like Piper or Hanser, her first lifestyle shoot for Esprit, a job for Microsoft. "I need variety and a bit of excitement," she says dryly about the list of illustrious clients. But she chooses carefully - because "My Instagram account is sacred to me."
Saskia has been working as a freelance photographer for two years now - and doesn't regret anything: "It was the best thing I could have done." She is already booked for countless weddings this summer - her most important motto is "It has to be real! I think it's bad when you tell the couple how they should pose. I would prefer to just let them do it."
On Valentine’s weekend, Saskia takes over our IG gallery and tells a love story.
@oh_hedwig's favorite Igers: @herz.und.blut , @ezgipolat , @vanellimelli
@oh_hedwig's favorite hashtag: #morningslikethese
BONUS
For a coffee with @oh_hedwig. Listen to our 5 questions for Saskia with the authentic hum of the fridge in the background:
