Please note that the light distortion in some images is the byproduct of the software used to create this publication and that it does not appear in the actual pictures & prints.
We started our photography project as a way to connect everyone during the 2020 pandemic, when the freedom we used to have has been modified and the new “normal” was unfamiliar & different.
We found that no matter where in the world you live, no matter what faith or religion you practice, no matter what your social status is, poverty has no geographical boundaries, we mourn the same way, we cry for the same or similar reasons.
We also found that the essence of happiness is the same for all people around the globe. We found that we dream about similar things. We smile with our eyes when truly happy, and hope finds its way into every home and every heart.
This collection captures smiles, focus, determination, happiness, grief and struggle of our fellow mankind. It captures human soul. Unfiltered.
Olya Hill
“Not Smiling” invites you into a profound contemplation of the human condition, compassion, and the intrinsic worth of every individual.
A thought-provoking portrayal of a homeless man’s striking resemblance to the image of Jesus creates an arresting juxtaposition of societal perceptions and spiritual symbolism.
The play of light and shadow creates a chiaroscuro effect, accentuating the man’s features and evoking a sense of both mystery and vulnerability. His face tells stories of a life marked by adversity, hardship, and the weight of the world. His eyes, windows to the soul, reflect the depths of his experiences, and captivate with a sense of profound introspection.
The man’s expression, caught between a gentle smile and a solemn scowl, becomes a testament to the complexities of human emotions. It hints at the struggles, disappointments, and resilience that shape his existence. You can’t help but delve deeper, questioning the narratives and assumptions that often cloud our perceptions of those who are marginalized and unseen.
The absence of color strips away distractions and shifts the focus on the essence of the moment captured. The stark contrast between light and shadow symbolizes the dualities present within the human experience - hope and despair, joy and sorrow, faith and doubt.
“Not Smiling” challenges you to confront their own biases and preconceived notions about homelessness and the inherent worth of individuals living on the margins of society. It serves as a poignant reminder of the compassion and empathy we can extend to those who are often overlooked. It urges you to recognize the inherent dignity and divinity that resides within every human being.
Venice, California - December 2020
OLYA HILL brings her passion & professional background in production into all she does, both creatively and professionally. She brings years of research into the psychology of customer behavior and is widely known for her work as the Creative Director for LivingNotes®. Her work in photography has been sought after by many global brands. She maintains a leading edge on creating visual presentations that have wowed readers and clients alike.
Olya is a well-respected & sought-after thought leader and innovator in the fields of advertising and human psychology. She has developed unique methods of using color undertones and hues to shape viewers emotional responses. While undetectable, these methods have been proven effective to promote specific reactions from readers when viewing images and videos. Her work has been featured in various digital and print publications such as Goop, Parents, Pregnancy and Newborn, Real Simple, and Thrive Global to name a few. Her unique creative advertising ideas have been placed on the Times Square Billboards.
BOBBY AMIREBRAHIMI , a Los Angeles based photographer, grew up among his dad’s rolls of film and camera lenses with many hours spent at shoots and in the darkroom having endless conversations on techniques, composition, and what it takes to create compelling images. Bobby’s singular perspective, creativity, & storytelling abilities combined with his technical perfection are apparent in every single one of his shots. He mainly draws inspiration from nature and people as he gravitates to create real and meaningful memories of moments when light, shadows, emotions, & imagination come together in perfect harmony. His experience, expertise, and ability to create are very diverse. Bobby is able to create imagery that one would expect to be found in National Geographic just as easily as capturing street style in a film-like matter. He is also fully accomplished in producing commercial imagery.. His unique take on seemingly ordinary objects & the ability to combine that with clients’ vision is one of Bobby’s biggest strengths.
