My Story
I’m Cem Baykal, a photographer based in Raleigh, North Carolina. I started taking photos early on, but everything clicked when I bought my first film camera in college. Shooting film taught me to slow down, pay attention, and make every frame count.
Today I focus on documentary-style photography with a cinematic touch, building images around real moments and honest emotion.
What I Believe
I believe a good photo should feel like something. It’s not just about what’s in front of the lens—it’s about what that moment means and why it stays with you.
My approach blends two ideas:
- Documentary Vision – Letting moments unfold naturally, without forcing them
- Cinematic Craft – Shaping the frame with composition, light, and color
The result is work that feels real but still carefully made.
My Process
When I work with someone, I bring:
- Curiosity – Listening first and understanding what matters to you
- Empathy – Looking for the moments that feel honest and personal
- Technical Skill – Solid lighting, composition, and editing
- Artistic Vision – A clear point of view and a calm, intentional process
Whether it’s a portrait or a landscape, the goal is the same: make images that feel true to your story.
Technical Expertise
- Documentary storytelling
- Portraits and environmental work
- Landscapes
- Natural and studio lighting
- Editing and color work
- Video and multimedia
Let’s Create Something Meaningful
If you’re looking to make images that feel personal and real, I’d love to connect.
Get in Touch to ask a question or start a conversation.