Our Story

Welcome to our Illusive world

Photography has always been in Charl's creative DNA, growing in significance as years passed... and finally, the inevitable next step was Illusive Works.

”I hope that you can get an insight into what I originally saw which prompted me to take the picture, and that it inspires you to view everyday things through a new and refreshing lens.

I love delving beyond the obvious, below the surface, looking to create unique angles and compositions through the camera lens.

Utilizing my digital experience and background in graphics, it’s interesting to see how the core images I capture – through some color enhancement, sharpening and manipulation – grow into something more impactful, while retaining the essence of the original vision.”

- Charl

Meet the team

Charl Kroeger

Charl’s creative journey has spanned interior and graphic design, ultimately leading him to photography. With his camera in hand, he finds his greatest passion, constantly on the hunt for the next captivating image.

Paul Edwards

Paul offers invaluable advice, intriguing insights, and unwavering support for our projects. He’s always on hand to carry equipment, switch lenses, and suggest new angles for capturing the perfect shot.

Chris & Stu

What would our office be without this fabulous duo? They’re always there to nudge us for attention and remind us to take breaks from work, to supply generous playtime, tummy rubs and treats!

Photography As Art...

Viewing photography as a legitimate art form is increasingly common as people explore new methods of self-expression. 'Painting' with a camera offers a unique way to blend reality with imagination and creativity.

Charl Kroeger is an inventive, multi-disciplined artist who expresses himself through photography and graphic design. He’s inspired by a deep love for music and the people who make it, and is influenced by architecture and travel creating a holistic and expansive bird’s eye view.

His passion for photography and his artist’s eye began with his first Pentax K1000 in South Africa where he was born. It was there that he combined his two loves: graphic design and music; becoming a leading designer in South Africa’s music industry.

His wanderlust and artistic hunger brought him to NYC nearly 25 years ago. In New York, he mastered the harmonies of photography and design working with many companies, nonprofits and musicians. He hosted an intimate “Loft Session” series with musicians that he had developed relationships with over the years, designing for them and working closely with their production teams.

The tapestry of his experience led him to launch Illusive Works, impactful imagery that connects to people and places with unusual perspectives. This diverse and intriguing catalog of images reveals the artistry, beauty, inventiveness and magic that exist all around us. Experience imagery that is conversation in the most evocative of ways.

Drawn to the universal vibe of California dreaming, Charl and his husband, Paul, now make their home in Long Beach, California with their two cats.

In Focus

Visiting artist highlights conceptual photography at SEMO exhibition

South African–born photographer Charl Kroeger brings conceptual show “Lines. Lights. Reflection.” to SEMO’s River Ca...

Welcome to our invitational, national, solo exhibition "Lines. Light. Reflection."

Welcome to our invitational, national, solo exhibition "Lines. Light. Reflection." at the ARX Gallery at Southeast Missouri State University.