Who doesn’t love the sunset and who doesn’t want to sunbathe with Michael? ‘Half Way West’ – PNPPL zine issue 10 extra interview with Mihael, photographed by Juan Antonio Papagni Meca. (full preview of ISSUE 10 here)
How did you find each other for the photo shoot? Was there any preparation before shooting?
Juan: I found Mihael on Instagram years ago, and since then we had been trying to find the right time and space in our agendas. I finally decided to visit Berlin, and we met for the shoot, he picked the location: Grunewald park. I like to improvise and trust my intuition. I’m used to working with dancers and models, so shooting with Mihael felt very natural—fluid and enjoyable.
Mihael: We connected on Instagram. There was a bit of conversation beforehand to align on the concept and vibe, but the energy flowed naturally once we met.
What was the first impression of each other?
Juan: Mihael is super easygoing. He speaks many languages and has travelled a lot, so he knows how to make things feel comfortable from the very beginning. He’s charming, and beautiful inside and out. He’s a real professional.
Mihael: Easy to work with, great communication, and a very positive attitude during the shoot. Most importantly, respectful and professional throughout.
If there was – what was the most difficult thing during the shooting?
Juan: Honestly, nothing felt difficult. I just wish we’d had more time to keep shooting. But that happens to me often—when things flow, time always feels too short.
Mihael: Probably finding the right spots with fewer people around and catching the sunlight at the perfect moment.
Juan, what do you do when you are not photographing?
Probably retouching photos or thinking about the next project. Lately, I’ve also started working as a Store Manager for a sustainable brand in Madrid.
Mihael, what do you do when you are not modeling?
I’m a professional dancer and a freelance artist based in Berlin.
What makes you happy?
Juan: Happiness is very collective for me. If the people I love are happy, I feel happy too. Also, true justice—that kind that feels deep and real—makes me happy.
MIhael: Traveling, enjoying good meals, and spending time with the people I love.
What turns you on?
Juan: Interesting, charismatic, and kind people. That mix gets me every time.
Mihael: Authenticity, passion, and deep connection.
Photography/Dig. Edition: Juan Antonio Papagni Meca @papagnimeca / papagnimeca.wixsite.com/papagnimeca
Model: Mihael Belilov @mihaelbelilov
Special thanks to: On Tracks @ontracks.studio • Thorns @thorns.thorns
Charlie by Matthew Zink @charliebymz • Personal Parade @personalprd
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