A Fleeting Day, A Lasting Connection: The Sea Around Us

Capturing Intimacy on the Normandy Coast

Intimacy often blooms slowly, nurtured by shared moments and trust. But what if it could blossom in a single day, sparked by the presence of a camera? French photographer Marie Deteneuille explores this very idea in her latest book, The Sea Around Us, documenting a unique connection forged with model Nuage Lepage against the breathtaking backdrop of the Normandy coastline.

A Photographic Experiment in Connection

Deteneuille sees photography not just as capturing images, but as creating connections. "The idea that an encounter can be driven purely by the act of creating an image fascinates me," she explains, speaking of her "experiment" to spend a single day with Lepage, her camera their sole companion amidst the unscripted beauty of nature. This fascination stems from previous work, photographing strangers in her home, further emphasizing her interest in spontaneous connections.

March 20, 2025 marked the day this experiment unfolded, leading to the creation of The Sea Around Us.

Mutual Admiration and a Shared Gaze

Deteneuille, having previously admired Lepage's "soft, honest gaze" in magazines, found a model whose "beauty reminds me of Renaissance paintings," embodying both openness and mystery. For Lepage, the collaboration offered a unique experience grounded in "mutual respect and understanding," far from the competitive nature often found in the industry.

From Photography to Quiet Observation

The camera, initially the catalyst for their connection, soon receded, becoming a quiet observer of their burgeoning friendship. They talked, explored the coastline, and allowed the photography to weave itself into these genuine moments. "It became almost secondary," Deteneuille recalls, describing the seamless blend of posed shots and candid moments that reflect the natural ebb and flow of human relationships. A missed train serendipitously extended their time together in Trouville, adding an unexpected chapter to their shared experience.

"At the end of the day I missed my train, so we ended up staying in Trouville until the next morning. It was a beautiful accident.” - Marie Deteneuille

The Tides of Connection and Collaboration

Inspired by Rachel Carson's poetic and scientific exploration of the ocean, The Sea Around Us mirrors the rhythms of nature, allowing connection to emerge organically, like the tide. The book evokes a shared gaze, a sense of "sisterhood" replacing the traditional photographer-model hierarchy. "I was intent on showing a collaborative process – an equal, horizontal relationship," Deteneuille explains, emphasizing the reciprocal exchange between artist and subject. She aimed to create a framework for free movement and expression, resulting in a collection of images that showcase not just their individual beauty, but the power of genuine connection between women.

Finding "The Sea Around Us"

The Sea Around Us by Marie Deteneuille is available for purchase through Yvon Lambert.