#tellmeyourstory
What started as a passion project in college has blossomed into a career. From photographing the streets of Warsaw to shooting Fashion Weeks in New York, Asia Typek – a streetwear photographer – shares how she shifted from capturing random people in their daily outfits to shooting latest trends during various fashion events. Discover how her minimalist approach to both fashion and photography has shaped a unique perspective on style.
Asia Typek, streetwear fashion photographer
KW: How did your photography journey begin?
AT: Back in college, I worked at a modelling agency called D’vision. That’s when I bought my first camera. I was surrounded by Polaroids and spent a lot of time on photoshoots. I also started a photo-blog with some friends, focusing on how people dress daily. We wanted to share photos, spotlight cool spots around the city, and feature interviews with inspiring individuals. But I quickly realized that in Poland, the topics started running out fast, and passersby weren’t exactly eager to chat with us.
KW: What made you see photography as a future opportunity?
AT: Around that time, photographers like The Sartorialist and Garance Doré were becoming popular – I was following them with enthusiasm. I tried to replicate what they were doing in Warsaw, but it soon felt a bit limiting. So on a whim, I moved to New York. I shot my first Fashion Week there, and then more followed. For the first few years, it felt more like an engaging hobby than a source of income. But it turned into a career very naturally over time.
KW: Looking back, how do you view your work now?
AT: I love it, more and more each year. For the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of watching the careers of the people I photograph evolve. That awareness of their journey adds a whole new layer of context to my work. During fashion weeks, I see hundreds of people dressed impeccably. But I’m drawn to those whose outfits aren’t just costumes put together for the runway show. I’m interested in individuals who have a solid, personal style. It’s not about who’s wearing the latest collection, but about genuine, developed style.
KW: What draws you to these individuals?
AT: In the early years of my career, I shot everything – I didn’t want to miss any moment. Today, I’m much more selective. I know exactly why I’m on set, and I wait patiently for that perfect shot. I also tend to avoid shows that attract a specific crowd with a strong aesthetic. I’ve learned that I don’t need to be everywhere. I’m not drawn to ‘total looks’ sponsored by brands. I prefer something more personal. I gravitate towards people who are doing something interesting with their lives. They come to fashion shows to work, and they look just like they do every other day. Their style is effortless, natural, and built over time. You can tell fashion is part of their life, not just something they put on for the event.
KW: How do you dress for work?
AT: Pretty much the same as I do every day – very simple. In street fashion photography, it’s crucial not to stand out too much, not to be the flashy element in the background that someone might catch in their frame. Most of my colleagues wear cargo pants and backpacks. For me, it’s more of a minimalist, monochrome vibe. That’s all it takes for Lisa Aiken from American Vogue to call me the best-dressed street fashion photographer.
KW: What’s your typical daily look?
AT: Jeans and a tank top, sometimes a suit, a leather jacket. For almost a decade now, I’ve always carried the same bag — a classic Chylak tote. It holds everything I need to get the job done.
Tekst: Kamila Wagner
Video: Łukasz Jaśniak
Foto: Łukasz Jaśniak
Retusz: Jan Tuszewski