“King Kong has been a huge influence”

Joachim Baldauf is one of the most sought-after fashion photographers in Germany. And he has always had weakness for bearded men – even long before the beard became fashionable. 

Why do you wear a beard? 

A key moment was the King Kong film from 1976. Jeff Bridges as Jack Prescott inspired my style.

But weren’t you just a kid then? 

I was 13 when I first saw him. Jeff Bridges was just great. I couldn’t wait for the first hair to grow on my face. I’ve been wearing a beard ever since. Right now, I have a full beard, quite white, I look like Santa Claus.

It suits you well!

Thanks, I feel good about it, too. The perceptions of people change with the colour of one’s hair. When it was still black, the beard had a certain severity, the grey makes it look softer. 

You like taking pictures of men with full beards. 

I tend to look for models who look like me. Only more handsome (laughs).

What does male beauty mean to you?

For me, it has little to do with outward appearances. I always find it fascinating to observe that often very tender boys are especially responsible and masculine. I am impressed by fatherly, strong and unpretentious types.  

What do you do for your own beauty?

I take a shower, brush my teeth at the same time, wash my hair and my beard with the same shampoo and then apply a single almond cream to my whole body and face. I use it on my face, body and sometimes even on my shoes.

How do you take care of your beard? 

I go to the barber every few weeks and have it cut. And I wash the beard after eating. Sometimes I blow-dry it.

Do men talk about such things among each other?

Yes, of course. Especially around the beard, a real cult has developed.

Have you ever shaved clean?

Only on my 40th birthday. It felt really weird. I was asked for the invitation at my own party.

This interview has first been published in the printed edition of 30 Grad. You can subscribe here for free.