About Antony Zacharias

Visit artist page follow artist

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Antony Zacharias, an award-winning architectural photographer, focuses on the clarity of form in his work—celebrating pure lines and geometry. His art of minimalism, infused with contemplative serenity, reduces urban landscapes to their bare essence, presenting a virtuoso blend of crisp shapes and soft colors. His series "Geometric Simplicity" is a profound demonstration of his skill. Drawing inspiration from Modernism and the subtle charm of pastel hues, Zacharias transforms buildings into abstract compositions. These photographs are a visual meditation on the complexity of simplicity and the elegance of minimalism, establishing a serene yet dynamic dialogue between the nuances of art and the precision of architecture. Based in London, Zacharias is a repeated recipient of the Architecture Photographer of the Year award, most recently in 2024, and a distinguished author. His publications, including the seminal "Mastering Long Exposure" with National Geographic and the upcoming "The Minimalist Photographer," reveal his sophisticated grasp of composition and light. Zacharias's minimalist approach transcends aesthetic—it embodies a philosophy of clarity, advocating a return to essence and favoring fresh perspectives over excessive impressions.

INTERVIEW

Picasso once said, “you don’t make art, you find it.” Where do you find your art? 

Sometimes it can be difficult to look close to home and not feel too overly familiar with your surroundings. All too often, it is easier to travel away to find things that are new and different, but often when you slow down and try to look with fresh eyes, there is an abundance of inspiring subjects at your doorstep.

From an idea to its materialisation: How do you approach your work?

Once I have a concept in mind and then it really falls into planning. This makes everything easier and that’s not to say that the unexpected can’t happen as it usually does, but addressing avoidable issues early on makes a project much more straightforward and also enjoyable. 

What is your favourite book?

There are too many to choose one but I do enjoy collecting art books on subjects and by artists that I enjoy.

Which artist would you like to have coffee with and what would you discuss? 

This is a difficult one as there are so many! I think that Franco Fontana has been incredibly inspiring to me for his minimalist photography work - I would love to find out his approach to seeing and composing an image - is his vision instinctive or constructed once he has found a potential scene.

How did you get into Art, specifically Photography?

I have always found the idea of photography amazing - the ability to freeze a moment in time that will last forever. My father enjoyed photography and I spent time with him watching the process of developing film and the magic of the images slowly fading into a recognisable form in the dark. It seemed magical to watch the process and the excitement of seeing these moments reappear on paper.  

How much time and energy does one Photograph require – from concept development to the final product?

It really depends - the planning to get everything organised is usually the hardest part - but once everything is laid out and a plan in place, then capturing the images I have in mind relatively straightforward. The weather and light are usually the most unpredictable elements that can slow down the process. 

Who are the people in your surroundings that influence you?

I enjoy looking at the work of fellow photographers and conversations with them and other creatives often spark new ideas or ways of looking at something. Also my young daughter who looks at the world without any preconceived ideas - it sounds like a cliche but there is a wonderful innocence in being able to see things in this way. 

Imagine you have a time machine. Where would you go?

I love art deco/modernist architecture from the 1930’s/40’s so I would love to have been able to see some of these buildings when they were newly constructed, where everything was exciting for the feelings of moving into a new age of modernism and design.  

Other than art, what are you most passionate about?

I was brought up in a musical home where my parents were musicians. I play the piano and enjoy time out to just explore new music- whether listening or playing.

What are you working on right now? 

I have just finished a book on minimalist photography call The Minimalist Photographer which is released internationally by Laurence King in June 2025 - this has been a labour of love. It contains my work together with some of my favourite photographers (including Franco Fontana), who inspire me. I am currently working on a second book in the series, as well as an ongoing photography project and light and form.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and your work?

As a fine art photographer focusing mainly on architecture, my work is rooted in a deep appreciation for structure, light, and form. I’m drawn to the quiet simplicity of minimalism and how a single line, shadow, or negative space can be so powerful and speak volumes. I’m inspired by how architecture shapes our experiences, yet how something so complex can be portrayed as a more simple, calming space.