The Rest is Illusion: Photo Manipulations by Erik Johansson

Erik Johansson is a photo manipulation and retouch artist from Sweden. The artist employs a special technique to digitally modify photographs that he takes himself, and has attracted wide popularity for his unique and innovative photographic work. These photos have been successful in producing an awe-inspiring reaction from people who have seen his work worldwide.

The photographer takes about a week, with a few hours of work everyday, to create each of his characteristic illusionary images. The result is always unusually real and powerful. “What drives me is mostly the challenge to create a realistic photo from an idea in my head. I never consider it as a job but rather as a fun hobby and my creative outlet. I'm lucky to be able to work with my hobby. My main goal with my work is to inspire others,” the talented artist tells us. Salvador Dali, M.C. Escher, and Koen Demuynck are some of Erik’s favorite artists. A collection of Erik’s photo manipulations can be seen below.