EDITORS’ PICK
Beauty and Strength
THE HUMAN BODY
THE HUMAN BODY EDITORS’ PICK
Following Siân Davey’s selection of winning images for our recent The Human Body competition, this compilation of 20 images represents some of the other talented photographers whose work struck us and left a mark. Each a stunning image worthy of exposure and attention…
When selecting for editor’s picks we’re always searching for those striking photographs that make for an unforgettable single image, whether from a broader series or not. We enjoy the accompanying text some photographers submit with their images, and while not always necessary it can be relevant when understanding the work in full context.
These are intended to be a conversation starter… so feel free to join the discussion on our social networks.
BANNER IMAGE: THIBAULT GERBALDI
The subject’s hands instantly betray a life of hardworn, outdoor labour – an aspect confirmed by the photographer’s supporting text. Through their hands alone, this portrait gives a true insight to the dedicated nature of the subject and the unrelenting but simultaneously rewarding lifestyle. The use of black and white in this faceless portrait emphasizes each wrinkle, groove and mark on these loyal limbs. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Echoes of Tradition. In the high-altitude community of Pampallacta, Bernardino’s weathered hands bear witness to his unwavering dedication and resilience. Alongside his wife and children, he toils in the fields for most of the day, deeply entrenched in their traditions and culture. Despite the allure of modernity, they steadfastly cling to their ancient way of life, determined to preserve their heritage. Through their commitment, they not only safeguard their cultural identity but also serve as an inspiration for others to cherish and honor their own unique heritage.
ANAIS STUPKA
There is a goddess-like quality to this image, xaptured in how the subject is posed and accessorised, but also emphasized through the angle of the image – the perspective pointed upwards elevating the subject in both a physical and metaphorical sense. The appreciation of the subject and their gender is clear, the flowers used possibly as a symbolic reference to the inner beauty and unrestricted energy of heart and soul. A beautifully styled portrait. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Flourish: A Feminine Odyssey, a photo tale from my “Female Gaze” collection, beckons viewers to behold the beauty nestled within women’s hearts. Through the gentle adornment of flowers and nature’s touch, we unveil a beauty & understanding one that is profound and reverent.This odyssey celebrates the profound truths, love, and individual essence for women. In the liberation of body, heart, and soul, we celebrate the essence of natural beauty, focusing on the heart’s sanctuary–a realm where beauty transcends the mere surface.
ADAM DOCKER
The portrait appears so perfectly styled, composed and considered – in no way does it suggest that it is in fact an initial, chance encounter between photographer and subject. The swimmer takes a defiant yet natural stance, simultaneously appearing both strong and vulnerable, their physique remarkable while their expression remains incomplete and mysterious with their eyes hidden behind the blacked out goggles. A striking and beautiful image, with a caption that highlights the photographer’s skill of connection and warmth for the people they meet and photograph. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Rosario Patan lost his leg age 20 and found swimming a way to improve his mental health. I met him after he had popped out of the water on this little rocky beach, having swam to the Castle in the background and back, a distance of 2500m.
EMMA GRASSO
The close crop allows the viewer to focus on minute details of the subject’s skin – inviting them to study texture and tone, and consider the varying elements of their identity, both age and gender. However, beyond these obvious aspects there is the question of the subject’s current emotional state – are they closing their eyes because of fear, joy, tiredness? Or is it a simple reaction to the photographer’s lens or flash? An intriguing image that allows the viewer to consider the – at times taken for granted – basic functions and responses of the human body. – LIFE FRAMER
KAMILA J GRUSS
Taking inspiration from Arno Rafael Minkkinen we must imagine, here the human body merges subtly and seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, showcasing how the photographer has crafted their skill to clearly communicate their ethos in an effortless but refined way. There is both an abstract and poetic essence to this style, which is assisted by the black and white aspect of the scene. The body and land are positioned with a mindful perspective. Seeing this within a wider series would be interesting. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – My series Intimate landscapes depicts the human essence as an integral part of a raw landscape, full of earth, dust, and ash. The body, naturally integrated into the surroundings, resembles a child in its rightful cradle. This barren, devoid of vegetation landscape, where the sole trace of life is humanity, evokes the words “Pulvis es et in pulverem reverteris,” signaling that even in the most barren environment, we are part of the same matter – born from it and returning to it.
NATHALIE KREMERS
A globally recognized pose casts its shadow across the fame, leaving the viewer in no doubt that the sole subject is in mid selfie attempt. When image and caption are considered together there is a sense this is a request from the subject to any recipient of the image – rather than a statement of self love and appreciation. A sad but serious aspect of modern culture where prime physical appearance is now even a bigger commodity than it ever has been, and self-worth is only valued by aesthetic qualities and beauty standards, typically affecting each generation at earlier and earlier ages. The photographer cleverly captures the portrait without disclosing the subject’s identity, allowing the image to speak on a wider level. The drab backdrop adds an additional layer – accentuating a feeling of despondency to the image. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Love my body.
MICHAEL ERNEST SWEET
The photographer presents an intense and intriguing image, rich with detail, texture and dark contrasting tones, all emphasized by the use of black and white against a harsh midday sun. The image is one that compliments the photographer’s caption completely – approaching the human body in an uncontrolled environment, where scenes unfold naturally and the photographer reacts to the most interesting form and composition. Although a faceless portrait it still manages to hold a lot of story and personality for the viewer to ponder. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Delving into the intricacies of the human form has always been a fascination for photographers. While studio settings offer a controlled environment for such exploration, navigating the presentation of the human body in street photography poses unique challenges. As a street photographer, I’ve embraced the human body as my subject, seeking to capture expressions of individuality that transcend conventional portraiture. My aim is to candidly depict the human form in ways that prompt viewers to pause momentarily and contemplate what unfolds before them. It’s a demanding endeavor, but one that holds immense value in its ability to provoke thought and reflection.
ROBERT OLIVER
A glowing image full of color, detail and textures awaits the viewer’s attention. The low lamp light and angle from the floor immediately gives a sense of calm and intimacy with the subject, allowing their toned, muscular physique to take center focus. An interesting image, highlighting the beauty of the human body in a familiar space, without the need to highlight its structure and form through positioned props and simplistic backdrops. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Flex.
JO BENGTSSON
The vignette emphasizes the presence of the camera’s lens, allowing both photographer and viewer to study this unique but not unusual relationship in its simplest form. The photographer takes time to consider the personality of both subjects, studying the patterns and similarities between them both (including markings in two senses) and creates this faceless portrait full of tenderness and connection. An image of friendship and mutual respect. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Spike, Horden, North East UK 2010. I wanted to document the tenderness of Spike’s relationship to his horses, which offers an alternative window onto his loud and unabashedly kind, bear-like personality.
Through my lens i saw Spike’s relationship with his horse as a symbol to reflect our own inner selfs. I see a deeper meaning with our natural world that many people are disconnected from. Connecting with animals can provide us with a sense of groundings, perspective, and interconnnectedness. I think the connection between humans and animals is multifaceted and deeply ingrained in our lives.
I found these images deep in my archive, and I never did anything with them. I had just bought my first DSLR, Olympus Pen 1. I remember briefly that it had preset settings on it. One of them was vignette-black & white.
FAITH SMITH
The photographer presents a portrait that relies heavily on the silhouette to lead the narrative, which appears to be one of origins and inherited culture. The overall blue tone grounds the uncomplicated image without coloring it in an unnatural sense and allows skin tone and the physical form of the sitter to play an integral role within the scene. An interesting portrait which could fit well within a wider editorial series. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Rooted. In this image I allowed the lighting to tell the story. This image represents nature in a sense, a bend on perspective. Using light and shadow to emphasize the tree like hair, silhouetted body and hues of blue; which represents water.
GREG MO
A cleverly composed image playing on scale and familiarity, the photographer is quick to find unique compositions within the backdrop of our everyday, overfamiliar surroundings. The connections between color and pattern within the photograph are subtle yet elevate the scene to a more visually pleasing aesthetic. A scene embracing both skill and humor, revealing the photographer’s ability to focus on the present moments that can easily go by unnoticed. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Cambodia, Phnom Penh. Mouth with a dentist mirror.
DANIÈLE MICHEL
There’s a fine line to navigate between emotion and over-obviousness when double exposing images in an effort to echo the internal emotions of a subject. Here the photographer approaches the technique with care and simplicity, not over emphasizing either exposure too much – the tree branches like capilliaries across skin. The cold tones and dark shades allow the subject’s mood to envelop the scene, allowing the viewer to contemplate the true emotions being expressed and the circumstances that evoked them. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Adeline was in deep sorrow and we wanted to document it. I chose to do a double exposure of her portrait and bare branches of a winter tree to highlight that feeling of sadness, the sky was moody that day which adds to the melancholic feeling of the image.
MELANIE HABERKORN
An exquisitely lit portrait, enveloped in natural and earthy tones. The viewer is encouraged to compare the modern tale with the original fairytale – an evolution of the main female character seems to be the main focus, where a sense of strength and defiance has risen in place of the original role of victim in need of rescuing. Although subtle, the subject’s facial expression portrays a sense of conviction and confidence rather than one of uncertainty and distress. An insightful image on the role of body language – how a narrative without words can be clearly communicated in a simple way. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Rapunzel from my series Modern Tales.
ENOLA GIL
An intriguing and puzzling portrait is presented for the viewer’s observation, uniquely composed to express both the beauty and strangeness of the human body. The viewer is encouraged to separate human form from wax work, a slightly challenging task as the real-life subject sits amongst such well crafted pieces, their colors, textures and tones soft and tangible. A fascinating photograph, imaginative and constructed with care. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Fragmented Beauty : Embracing the unique. Ann at El Museo de Cera Workshop.
ANH DANG HOAI
An uncomfortable sense of heat and strength encompass the scene, as the viewer observes the lean, toned bodies of these subjects – physiques that seem to be a direct result of the work they are engaged in. A well balanced, double portrait – sharp, symmetrical and perfectly lit. Some context would be useful, as it would be interesting to have more insight into the work these two people are carrying out. – LIFE FRAMER
TOM BOURDON
There is a darkness to the scene, with the smiling faces in the surrounding posters contradicting the mood as if the added pressure of achieving this idea of peak physical fitness weighs upon the subject as society looks on. The markings on the wall add another unsettling element, as if the boundaries of the human body have been pushed and tested in unimaginable ways. Another insight into gym culture we’re generally not privileged to witess beyond the usual lens of social media. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – In the heart of India, this determined man pushes his limits in a modest gym, surrounded by posters of iconic bodybuilders.
SUDIPTA MAULIK
Only street photography can portray this juxtaposition of reality so well, contrasting different stages of life and human ability in such close proximity and always with an underlying sense of humor. The photographer refrains from over-layering the image with emotion and meaning, allowing the viewer to pause for thought and appreciate this simplistic perspective and passing moment. A well-conceived photograph. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – The aging of the body – An elderly person using a walking stick was passing by the lane next to a gymnasium in Kolkata, India.
NOEL ROJO
The subject appears as if she is avoiding the reflection from the shard of mirror, but may just be caught by the photographer as she cleans and moisturises her face. The image is darkly lit but sharp and detailed, allowing the viewer to observe the individual items casually laid out in front of the subject – a possible routine moment of this woman’s daily life is documented and now studied in minute detail. The unnecessary pressures society puts on women and the scrutiny of their beauty standards stretches far beyond the typical media and commercial focus of western and white cultures. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – Mirrored Body.
ELISKA SKY
An vibrant and dramatic scene awaits the viewer’s gaze, the unconventional use of color in this way bringing a new dimension to the image – as if it is another, third subject being captured by the photographer. The models are effortless in their intertwined pose, as if portraying two sides of the same tree through a dance of uninhibited movement. There are many elements at play within this one scene with a real sense of celebration throughout. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – My photography project Vive Matisse! draws inspiration from the vibrant and expressive works of Henri Matisse, while embracing a contemporary reinterpretation through the lens of the female gaze. By casting models of diverse body types and races, I aim to challenge conventional beauty standards and bring forth the strength of diversity. Matisse’s artworks have long been celebrated for their dynamic use of colour, form, and composition. With a deep appreciation for his mastery, I revived his iconic pieces (such as Icarus, Snail, Blue Nude, Dance and many more) in these photographs while utilising the body as a form. Each photograph is a carefully constructed visual narrative combining the bodypainting, movement & set design.
TED VAN DER HULST
The subject is posed in a creative and unusual position, the backdrop vibrant and unique – a sign the photographer is highly skilled at creating these well composed, on-location portraits, which additionally allows their own style and flair to be present without dominating the subject. The photographer’s intentions seem genuine with an effort of awareness and inclusion, however the caption could include a bit more context on the ‘why’ and ‘intention’ of these portraits as there is little insight to the subject’s input and understanding of where their image will be viewed and why. A wider series would be interesting to observe for more context. – LIFE FRAMER
Photographer statement – All these photo are from an ongoing project “From the darkness to the light”. These are photographs from outsiders in Indonesia. I want to take the outsiders out from the shadows and put them in the light in front of my camera.
