Raised in the vibrant streets of Casablanca, Hamza Lafrouji, known as Psycho Moustache (Instagram), believes he was destined to hold a camera. Inspired by his uncle, he discovered photography as his true passion, drawn to capturing the raw beauty of Sidi Moumen and Derb Sultan. Starting as a street photographer, he documented simple realities and unfiltered expressions. As people grew wary of the camera, he transitioned to working with models, refining his craft. Now a street fashion photographer, he’s turning fleeting moments into visual stories.
What first drew you to photography, and when did you realize it was your true passion?
My first real encounter with a camera was during a family trip. My father and uncle always carried film cameras, and I was mesmerized by how an image transformed from a negative to a vibrant photo, eventually becoming part of our family albums. It felt like magic. That moment sparked something in me, it made me realize photography wasn’t just about freezing moments; it was a way of seeing and interpreting the world uniquely. That curiosity grew into a passion that I couldn’t ignore.
You started with street photography and later transitioned to working with models. How did that shift change your creative process?
Street photography, which I started with just my phone, taught me how to observe people—their movements, emotions, and untold stories. It was my introduction to composition and capturing raw, unfiltered moments. Over time, I connected with creatives like Salima Mahraoui, who shared my interest in fashion. Naturally, I transitioned into editorial and fashion photography. Working with a team expanded my creative scope, I discovered how styling, set design, and direction could elevate a concept. Eventually, surrealist portraiture became my signature, allowing me to blend reality with imagination.
Growing up in Sidi Moumen and Derb Sultan, how have these neighbourhoods influenced your artistic vision?
Derb Sultan shaped my values and deepened my understanding of human connection, it taught me the significance of storytelling, community, and raw emotion. Sidi Moumen, on the other hand, carried a different energy, almost like a Moroccan favela, where life was complex yet deeply intertwined. These neighbourhoods made me realize that art can emerge from anywhere. They influenced my framing, pushing me to capture the depth and essence of people and their surroundings.
Props seem to add an extra layer to your storytelling. How do you choose them, and what role do they play in your work?
Props are like silent narrators in my work. I choose them based on the mood and emotions I want to evoke. Sometimes, they create contrast; other times, they subtly blend into the scene, adding depth and dimension. Shadows, reflections, or even an everyday object can shift the energy of an image. I love finding beauty in the unexpected, transforming ordinary items into something surreal or symbolic. The smallest detail can completely alter an image’s impact.
Your photography often feels cinematic. Are there any films, artists, or directors that inspire your work? Why?
Absolutely. Filmmakers like Alejandro Jodorowsky (The Holy Mountain) and David Lynch (Eraserhead) have profoundly influenced me. Their ability to blend surrealism with deep, symbolic narratives aligns with my approach to photography. Salvador DalÃ’s dreamlike distortions inspire my compositions, while Kendrick Lamar’s music videos shape my perspective on movement and storytelling. I strive to infuse my work with the same layered, immersive experience that these artists masterfully create.
What has been the most challenging shoot you’ve worked on in terms of styling and props?
One of my most challenging shoots involved unconventional props that had to feel like they belonged in the environment. The challenge was making surreal elements appear organic rather than forced. Styling played a crucial role, it had to seamlessly connect the fantasy and reality within the frame. Balancing all these elements while maintaining strong composition pushed me to think differently. That experience reminded me that photography isn’t just about capturing images; it’s about weaving together elements that tell a compelling visual story.
If you could create your dream shoot with unlimited resources, what would it look like?
My dream shoot would be set in an otherworldly landscape, somewhere like Iceland, where nature feels almost surreal. I’d love to collaborate with artists like Adele, Nicole Kidman, and Joaquin Phoenix, using Moroccan cultural influences as a foundation. The vision would merge fashion, cinema, and fine art into one seamless experience, making every frame feel like a painting in motion. Every element, from the lighting to the set design, would be meticulously curated to create something timeless and immersive.
If your camera could speak, what do you think it would say about your journey as a photographer?
If my camera could talk, it would tell a story of transformation, from capturing spontaneous street moments to crafting surreal editorials with intricate storytelling. It would speak of growth, endless experimentation, and countless moments of trial and discovery. My camera has been my most trusted companion, helping me refine my vision and redefine my art with every shot. My journey has been one of constant evolution, always pushing the limits to see the world in a new light.
For more stories of art and culture from across our region, like this interview with Hamza Lafrouji, aka Psycho Moustache, visit our dedicated archives and stay across our Instagram.
