Étienne Saint-Denis is a Canadian photographer based in Montreal who merges nostalgic and opportunistic elements to create images at once ethereal and confrontational. His diverse portfolio is united by unresolved tension and a sense of déjà vu.

What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?
My proudest moment is fragmented here and there. I am proud when people appreciate elements in my photos they can’t put into words but that I carefully work on to make them feel this way.

What has been the hardest lesson you’ve learned as a photographer?
The sense of satisfaction is rare and ephemeral feeling.

In your opinion, what makes a subject compelling enough to photograph?
I like when I see something and I feel like this subject has already been photographed by me, but it’s sitting somewhere in space-time. I can see the picture clearly in my head and have to find a way to get to it.

What is the responsibility of a photographer to their audience?
There is no such rule.