About the Image(s)

This portrait is from my trip to Ethiopia in 2015, where I had the incredible opportunity to connect with the Hamer tribe—a community known for its deep-rooted traditions and striking cultural expressions.

What drew me to this moment was the sheer presence of the woman in front of my lens. Her face, adorned with white tribal markings, carried a quiet strength, each line seeming to tell a story of resilience and heritage. Her elaborate headdress, made of dried yellow and brown fruits, felt almost regal—a symbol of identity, tradition, or perhaps even a personal narrative woven into the fabric of her culture. The curved horns framing her face added an undeniable sense of power, reflecting the tribe’s close relationship with nature and their deep respect for the land.

The warm, golden light of the late afternoon wrapped around her, blending seamlessly with the earth-toned beads draped around her neck. There was something timeless about this moment—an unspoken connection between subject and photographer that transcended language.

Looking back at this photograph, I’m reminded of why I love photography. It’s more than just capturing an image; it’s about preserving a piece of someone’s world, a fleeting moment that holds history, culture, and humanity all at once. This portrait is a small window into a beautiful, enduring way of life—one that I was honored to witness firsthand.

Metadata:
Nikon D3s
AF-S NIKKOR 85MM F/1.8G

f/5 1/4000 ISO-800