The Hidden Smiles photo series by Réhahn, a photographer hailing from France, will make you smile, big and proud. After all, such a form of expression is incredibly contagious, hidden or not. But what makes this photo series particularly fascinating is the history behind why Vietnamese people have the habit of hiding their smiles.
First of all, they are hiding their white teeth. My Modern Met writes, "This mysterious smile dates back hundreds of years, to a time when a common belief was that only evil spirits, savages, and wild animals possessed long, white teeth." Yet what intrigued the photographer was how much emotion was still present in his Hidden Smiles series. Such expressions extend way beyond the mouth.
Hidden Smile Photography
French Photographer Réhahn Captures a Common Vietnamese Gesture
Trend Themes
1. Hidden Smiles - Capturing the hidden smiles of Vietnamese people can uncover cultural traditions and beliefs.
2. Expression Beyond the Mouth - Exploring the emotions conveyed beyond the smile can lead to new ways of capturing human expression.
3. Contagious Expression - Discovering the contagious nature of smiles can inspire innovative approaches to visual storytelling.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photographers can incorporate the concept of hidden smiles into their work to capture unique cultural perspectives.
2. Cultural Studies - Researchers and anthropologists can delve into the history and significance of hidden smiles in different cultures.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Understanding the power of hidden smiles can help brands create captivating campaigns that tap into emotional connections.