Series description
After experiencing the narrow concepts of beauty in the photography industry, I embarked on a journey to capture what truly matters to me – stories of self-love, acceptance and resilience. I am working towards figuring out how to make viewers see strength in vulnerability and rawness in imperfection; I want my work to be a bold and beautiful statement of rebellion against the confines of beauty standards. With intimate warmth, The Beauty of Humanity II continues my previous work on this subject and shows the beauty of diversity and what being human actually looks like.
Biography
I am an Austrian photographer based in London, United Kingdom. After experiencing the narrow concepts of beauty in the industry, I began my journey towards capturing what truly matters to me - stories of self-love, acceptance, and resilience. I am working towards figuring out how to make viewers see strength in vulnerability and rawness in imperfection and I want my work to be a bold and beautiful statement of rebellion against the confines of beauty standards.
Ashlee, Billie and Frankie
I took this photograph of triplets Ashlee, Billie and Frankie on a warm autumn day in London. Their beautiful connection with each other and their surroundings reminded me of my own childhood and how lucky I am to have grown up in such a safe place.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Britney
I met Britney on a hot summer day in Coney Island, New York. The sun cast a warm golden glow over her face and body, against the backdrop of gentle crashing waves. While chatting about everything and anything we completely lost track of time and the sky transformed into a canvas of pastel hues, casting a dreamy palette over the entire scene.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Danny
This is my friend, Danny. He never ceases to amaze me. He’s a model, actor and boxer, as well as an advocate for the rights of people with Down syndrome. He has raised awareness and thousands of pounds with his charity work. I took this photograph of Danny on a moody day in his garden.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Ellie
I took this photograph of Ellie in my living room on a sunny day in October. I was hypnotised by the subtle play of light on her skin, but Ellie’s strength and resilience were as captivating as her natural beauty. When Ellie was 17 she was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Liv
I took this photograph of Liv and her pony on a cold winter’s day. Her family’s farm was busy, but in this suspended instance, time seems to stand still. Liv has many jobs throughout the day and came to rest on her pony, their bond evident in the quiet understanding that exists between them.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Lauren and Elena
Lauren and Elena are best friends and their friendship is a testament to the magic that happens when hearts connect; a safe haven where vulnerability is embraced and authenticity thrives. In their presence, masks fall away, revealing the truest versions of themselves. I took this photograph in my living room on a sunny day in May.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards
Koi
This is Koi, three months post-op, photographed on a warm and sunny day in October. Koi’s spirit is a beacon of resilience and authenticity; his infectious smile lights up any room and his presence is a testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance. From the moment he embraced his true identity, Koi has become a living embodiment of courage and positivity.
© Anna Neubauer, Austria, Shortlist, Professional competition, Portfolio, 2024 Sony World Photography Awards