On one end of the portrait photo spectrum are fashion editorials with their airbrushed, posed models and on the other end are series like 'There's a Place in Hell for Me and My Friends.' Although not necessarily the opposite in terms of visual ugliness, what it does that those other photoshoots desperately try to hide is celebrate the flaws in every individual.
Shot by South African photographer Pieter Hugo, 'There's a Place in Hell for Me and My Friends' uses "a digital process of converting colour images to black and white while manipulating the colour channels" in order to emphasize "the pigment (melanin) in his sitters' skins so they appear heavily marked by blemishes and sun damage," reveals Stevenson.
Zombie-Like Portraits
The 'There's a Place in Hell for Me and My Friends' Series Focuses on Flaws
Trend Themes
1. Embracing Flaws - The trend of celebrating flaws in portraits, highlighting individual uniqueness and authenticity.
2. Digital Manipulation - The trend of using digital processes to manipulate color images in black and white, creating visually striking and unconventional portraits.
3. Authentic Representation - The trend of showcasing individuals with blemishes and sun damage, promoting a more authentic and inclusive representation of beauty.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Photography - Opportunity for fashion photographers to explore unconventional and visually striking techniques to celebrate individual uniqueness and authenticity.
2. Beauty and Skincare - Opportunity for beauty and skincare industries to embrace and promote more authentic and inclusive representations of beauty, catering to a diverse range of individuals.
3. Digital Art and Manipulation - Opportunity for digital artists and manipulators to create visually striking and unconventional portraits by experimenting with digital processes and techniques.