14. Falk Weiß / Photographer, Artist
/© Falk Weiß
1. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Over the past few weeks, I have often thought about how wonderful it is to cycle to work. I have noticed that it makes me happy. I experience these moments of perfect happiness even when I am spending time with my family, visiting an exhibition or reading a good book. I experience them every day, in many small moments.
2. What is your greatest fear or challenge?
I am afraid of stagnation. If I don't set myself goals and actively shape my life, I'm afraid I'll end up on a one-way path to death.
3. What trait do you most value in yourself?
Many people feel welcome and comfortable in my presence. I often actively do something to achieve this, but it doesn't come hard to me. Being able to do this is a gift, and I'm somewhat proud of it.
4. What is the trait that you most value in others?
I really appreciate it when other people feel beautiful and comfortable. I also like it when someone takes an interest in other people.
5. Which living person do you most admire?
My wife.
6. What is your greatest extravagance?
That's a question that others would probably be better placed to answer. I run up stairs and always want to be the first one at the top. Sometimes, when I overtake everyone else, I think I might seem a little strange.
7. What is your current state of mind?
I am fine.
8. What do you consider to be the most underrated virtue?
Compassion, because that means being able to see things from other people's perspectives. Something that is very important in relationships, conversations, and even for democracy and peace.
9. On what occasion do you break the rules?
I don't wait for the green light. I don't wait for the elevator. (I run up the stairs). I take photos everywhere, even if it's forbidden.
10. What do you most like about your life?
Keep moving.
11. What quality do you most enjoy in someone you work with?
I really appreciate it when someone is able to think for themselves at work, is empathetic, and thinks ahead.
12. Which words, phrases, or gestures do you most overuse?
I often say 'yes' to show that I am paying attention and to make it clear that I agree with the person I am talking to.
13. What or who is the greatest love of your life?
I like to save beautiful moments.
14. When and where are you happiest?
When I'm in a flow state.
15. Which talent would you most like to have?
I don't believe in talent. I think all talent is the result of hard work and practice. I have exactly the talents I deserve, and I'm very happy with that.
16. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be less hesitant in business decisions.
17. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Making other people happy.
18. Where would you most like to live?
I would live in an old house in the city center with an enchanted garden behind the house, overlooking the Alps and the sea. All my daily errands would be within walking distance. There would be a subway and a long-distance train station nearby. My neighbors would all be my friends, and we would sit together on the roof terrace in front of my daylight studio and enjoy the sunset in mild weather.
19. What is your most treasured possession?
Apart from my human relationships, it is my art collection and my archive of photo negatives.
20. What is your favourite way to spend your time?
I enjoy spending time outdoors and being active, as it brings me happiness and inspiration.
21. Who are your heroes in real life?
People who do care work are the greatest heroes to me.
22. What is your ultimate dealbreaker?
People who look down on others or actively try to make themselves seem better than them.
23. What is your greatest regret?
I do not regret.
24. What has been your favourite journey?
Crossing the Alps on foot.
25. What kind of legacy would you like to leave?
Everyone deserves to have a good photo of themselves. I am glad to have played a part in making this possible.
To learn more about Falk’s photography, please view his website at falkweiss.com and on Instagram + LinkedIn.
