PRISMA Issue 20 by PRISMA Photography Magazine

by:TristanSharman

INSIDE THIS ISSUE OF PRISMA

Editor-In-Chief: Louise Anderbjörk & Tristan Sharman

The Outdoor Amputee: After loosing both lower limbs in service, Alec Waters found photography as a way to rediscover his place in the world, and to continue exploring the nature and culture around him

Luang Parang Boat Festival: Chloe Sianan shares her mesmerizing time capturing Buddhist spiritualism at the Light Boat Festival in in Luang Prabang, and reflects on the greater meaning of such images.

Underwater Photography: Meaghan Ogilvie’s outlook on life changed completely when she discovered underwater photography, and it has taken her on a journey of culture and personal growth across the world.

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Across Sunset Shorelines: Chloe Neilson shares her memorable trips to the many beaches of Madeira, and how the combination of stunning landscapes, colours, and natural light create the most unique photos.

Urban Futuristic Design: Having grown his interest in street photography during the COVID-19 pandemic, Paddy now uses the backdrop of his hometown to explore how culture interacts with geometry.

Olympic Photography: With stories from Paris 2024 and Rio 2016, Pauline von Hardenberg shares the insights of working as an Olympic equestrian photographer - including the thrill and excitement of world-class sport.

Editor-in-Chief-LouiseAnderbjörk

Editor-in-Chief-TristanSharman

EditorialEditor-AlexandraGodfrey

PhotographyEditor-KaileeParsons

PhotographyEditor-MaggieZhu

CopyEditor-HermioneHampton

WebEditor-IainCunningham

MediaManager-LucileBelorgey

ContentManager-AmandaMacEachen

editor@prismamagazinecouk

Photo:AlecWaters

Photo:ChloeSinan

Photo:Paddy

Photo:MeaghanOgilvie

Photo:ChloeNeilson

Photo:PaulinevonHardenberg

Photo: Alec Waters

Issue 20 - 31 October 2024

CAPTURING CREATIVE SPACES

EditorialEditor: Alexandra Godfrey

TRISTAN SHARMAN

There are few things in this world that will get me more starry-eyed than a creative studio. Perhaps one of the most well-renowned is the studio of Casey Neistat, a filmmaker based in New York City. If you’re unfamiliar with it, then I implore you to look it up. His studio is an incredible blend of practical and inspirational, hosting legions of camera gear, plus archives of hard drives, photos, hardware tools, and electric skateboards I am incredibly envious of it. This year, another filmmaker by the name of Jordan Studdard shared the story of his studio built just upstairs of Casey’s. It features a ring of books, a homemade plane chassis video editing bay, and a light-up switchboard map of iconic movie locations across New York It’s beautiful, and proof to me that there must be something magic in the air of that building Nevertheless, my stumbling across Studdard’s studio showcase online has come at a timely point in my own life. I have been packing up and moving out of the home, and indeed local area, that I grew up in. In doing so I’ve been reflecting on the creative spaces that I carved for myself, and also beginning to plan those that lie ahead of me I am a strong believer that the spaces and environments we occupy can have a great impact on the work that we do. I believe a great space for creative work is one that is an immersive one - one that allows you to focus on your craft, inspire your craft, and keeps your tools close at hand. Depending on your craft and circumstances, this might be big or small For photographers in years gone by, this might be the darkroom, turning rolls of film into prints, and more recently a studio of tripods, lights and canvas backgrounds. It can be humbler though - perhaps a shelf to host camera lenses, chargers and some photo albums. For some, having a secondary location might be enough, like a favourite coffee shop to sit-in with a laptop, sipping a hot drink whilst going through photos In my case, I need somewhere to research and write scripts, present pieces to camera with a ‘studio background’, and edit the videos, all for a self-produced educational YouTube show called Science Affairs that I launched earlier this year. A desk, therefore, is essential, but past that, I’ve turned to shelves of books that inspire me, provide references, and look good too! Where I put all of these is important too - I need space for studio lights, camera, and as much depth as I can create in order to create a nice bokeh effect, where I’m in focus and the shelves blur slightly into the background. Prior to my recent move, I had commandeered a spare bedroom for this

this, so everything could stay set up, out the way. Since my move however, I’ve downsized - forget having a dedicated space for a video studio - I’m living and working in something closer to a studio apartment. Still, I’m in the process of carving out and perfecting a creative nook Inevitably it will have its quirks - whilst wrestling with studio lights I’ve learned that, of course, they deliver the best results for camera when they’re placed totally in the way of the dinner table. Certainly the phrase ‘eat, sleep, work, repeat’ is much less snappy when you add ‘move the light stands’ between every step. Despite the friction added from putting up and down lights, there’s fun to be found in the challenge of it all This month, the results have begun to emerge on the channel, which has been incredibly rewarding (albeit I’m competing to do creative work on the side of full-time academics… but that’s an editorial for another time). As the new space does make its way to published works, I can’t help but think that there’s something extra special about that in itself The space that I’m producing creative work in is being showcased in that same work As a result, each studio setup will be a time capsule of sorts, allowing me to look back at the different places I was through different eras of projects. Plus, who knows, maybe others will look at my studios - with their upside-down posters keeping text out of shot and trinkets scattered across the edges of the shelves - and be inspired too, just as I have been

Photo:TristanSharman

Buildinga homestudio

Photo: Louise Anderbjörk

THE OUTDOOR AMPUTEE

PhotographyEditor:Kailee Parsons

ALEC WATERS

After losing both lower limbs while serving in Afghanistan in 2012 I found myself having to start my life over What do you do when everything you ever wanted to be is taken away from you? I tried lots of different things in rehabilitation after my injuries but nothing seemed to stick or give me a sense of fulfilment. But eventually years later, I found my niche. I found that I enjoyed photography and in particular landscape photography But I couldn’t walk far enough to get to the places you need to get to This all tied in with my fitting of blades , which meant I could walk further and be on my prosthetics longer The blades gave me more freedom and expanded my ability to photograph the landscapes. Now I spend a lot of my time out in the hills taking photographs, and generally enjoying being outdoors. It brings me a sense of peace and calm, and most of all a challenge I am based in the Peak District but the UK has one of the most diverse landscapes in my opinion, from the coastlines of Cornwall to the highlands of Scotland I never get bored of shooting the beautiful locations it has to offer. I will keep pushing myself physically in the gym and the outdoors to stay fit and well enough to keep on my feet for longer and keep shooting. I have never been one to shy away from a challenge, quietly confident and particularly stubborn, I enjoy my lifestyle now Although it is different to what I had planned for this age, I'm doing alright and I count my blessings every time I witness a sunset, a sunrise , or one of those fleeting moments worth capturing. I know I’m where I am meant to be.

Photo:AlecWaters

Photo: Alec Waters

LUANG PRABANG BOAT FESTIVAL

PhotographyEditor:Kailee Parsons

CHLOE SINAN

The Light Boat Festival, or Boun Lai Heua Fai, in Luang Prabang is one of the most mesmerizing events I’ve ever photographed This revered ceremony seeks blessings and good fortune from the nagas (water spirits) Villagers craft and adorn boats, parading them through town before launching them onto the river at night. These boats, made from bamboo and banana trunks, are ornately decorated with candles and coins, then set aflame as sacred offerings to the spirits The floating flowers upon the river not only ward off misfortune but also express gratitude to the water spirits It’s a spectacle unique to Luang Prabang. Before I became a professional photographer in 2012, I was a passionate traveler. My journeys brought me to Southeast Asia, where I was captivated by the region’s rich cultures and the peaceful rhythms of Buddhist communities Now, I spend my winters in Southeast Asia, deeply drawn to the traditions and spirituality of Buddhism, which continue to inspire my work At the Light Boat Festival, it’s not just the visual beauty that moves me, but the deep sense of connection between people, their beliefs, and nature. I strive to capture the authenticity of these moments, using natural light to preserve the warmth and magic of the evening. Though Southeast Asia holds a special place in my heart, I work all over the world, always seeking to tell unique stories Whether photographing grand ceremonies or intimate moments, my goal is to freeze the fleeting beauty and emotion in every frame. Chloe’s work continues on: www.photographybychloe.com.

Photo:ChloeSinan

BounLai HeuaFai

Photo: Chloe Sinan

URBAN FUTURISTIC DESIGN

PhotographyEditor:Maggie Zhu

PADDY

My passion for photography started during the Covid-19 pandemic Walking was the only thing that was allowed at that time. From that moment I rediscovered my hometown Rotterdam and started to invest more and more in cameras and lenses. Plus I developed a way of how I look at my city with its vibrant street life and modern architecture I must say it offers endless inspiration for me When I go out shooting, most of the time I don’t really have a plan I just go to different parts of my city, which could be for example the city centre, along the river or central station. I love the freedom to walk wherever I want to walk and feel the atmosphere on the streets. I always love to watch and observe people and capture them in a respectful way I especially love capturing moments where the human element meets the built environment: a cyclist speeding past an iconic building or people sitting on a bench enjoying their view of the modern skyline of Rotterdam. Rotterdam’s architectural diversity allows me to play with geometry, light, and shadow in ways few cities offer. In Rotterdam, every corner presents a new way to see the relationship between people and their surroundings, making it a photographer’s dream city for both street and architecture work As an (amateur) photographer, travelling to new cities and countries opens up a world of inspiration as well. Every location offers a unique blend of street life, architecture and landscape. When travelling I first make sure that my photo equipment is in order before deciding what kind of clothes to bring with me You just don’t want to miss anything

Photo:Paddy

Photo: Paddy

UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY

PhotographyEditor:Maggie Zhu

MEAGHAN OGILVIE

Underwater photography has not only defined my career but has profoundly shaped my identity and beliefs It all started with an old 35mm film camera my mom bought for me on my fourteenth birthday. That camera became my companion, helping me overcome my shyness and giving me a sense of purpose. Over time, my passion for photography grew, and specializing in underwater photography challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone I used to be afraid of open water, but now, as an advanced diver, I find myself 27 meters below the surface, swimming alongside sharks in strong currents. The ocean has now become my sanctuary and I have learned to embrace the unknown. My work has allowed me to explore the world, from the coral-rich waters of Raja Ampat to documenting environmental projects like the Seabin Project, which heightened my awareness of marine conservation My relationship with water deepened during the Requiem of Water project for the 2015 Pan-Am Games. Collaborating with Indigenous artists and communities changed how I see water. No longer just a resource, I now view water as a living, thriving entity that sustains us all This realization has made me more conscious of how our actions impact the planet Traveling for work has also opened my mind to the beauty of cultural diversity, and the connections I’ve made with people like the sailing crew aboard Diatomée in the Caribbean have enriched my life. Underwater photography keeps me curious, courageous, and always in search of new ways to connect with the world, both above and below the surface

Photo:MeaghanOgilvie

Photo: MeaghanOgilvie

Photo: Meaghan Ogilvie

ACROSS SUNSET SHORELINES

PhotographyEditor:Kailee Parsons

CHLOE NEILSON

From the diverse landscape of The Pacific Northwest to the volcanic island of Madeira, no two sunsets are alike From hiking rocky mountains to sitting by the calming ocean, photographing these special moments enables the beauty of nature I adore, to be enjoyed by others. With mountains and rainforest lining the coastal beaches in Olympic National Park, Washington, USA, there are some phenomenal coastlines Ruby beach is one of the most visited beaches in the state with iconic sea stacks formed by hundreds of years of erosion emerging from the shoreline and ocean Their formation created great silhouettes during a glowing sunset showering the landscape with yellows and pinks. Gnarled driftwood washed up by the lapping waves can be difficult to navigate through when setting foot on this coastal beauty spot, however the scenery is breathtaking and worth the scramble The atmosphere here is forever changing and during my trip, as the light dissipated, thick fog rolled in from the ocean and visibility was extremely reduced. It was rather exciting yet a little unnerving once the darkness sets in. Similarly, off Madeira's rugged landscape are sea stacks known as IIlheus da Ribeira da Janela, formed where the longest river crosses the Madeiran mountains before streaming into the Atlantic Ocean Here you can really sense the power off the ocean waves as they crash inwards. I embarked here for sunset and wanted a long exposure shot due to the ferocity of the waves. I knew it would show the milky tones of the ocean. I was lucky enough for the moon to be visible while the sky was still made up of beautiful pastel tones

Photo:ChloeNeilson

Pasteltonesand silhouettes

Photo: Chloe Neilson

OLYMPIC PHOTOGRAPHY

PhotographyEditor:Maggie Zhu

PAULINE VON HARDENBERG

Horses and photography have been my two greatest passions ever since I was young, so combining them to become a professional equestrian photographer in my adult life came naturally to me. Around 12 years ago, I began working for German equestrian magazines, which allowed me to cover incredible events and travel to major championships worldwide, including the 2016 Rio de Janeiro and 2024 Paris Olympic Games The Olympics are as meaningful for sports photographers as they are for athletes We might not win medals, but we certainly win photos of a lifetime The thrill of being close to the action capturing raw emotions, victories, and defeats is incomparable. Those goosebump moments, the excitement, and the effort to get the perfect shot are indescribable. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that the Olympics is one of the greatest experiences in the world for athletes and photographers alike I believe Versailles was the most special Olympic venue the equestrian world has ever seen. For two weeks, we were all captivated by the stunning Palace of Versailles and the cross-country course winding through its gardens. One joy of the Olympics is reconnecting with international photographers, sharing experiences, and driving each other to excel Our photo manager ensured excellent working conditions, but it is on us to stay motivated The logistics are impressive, with cables running all around the field to send images immediately. I still recall Rio’s cross-country day, where I nearly faltered. Excited, I shot blurry images of Michael Jung, except one!

Photo:PaulinevonHardenberg

Photo: Pauline von Hardenberg

PRISMA PHOTO COMPETITION

It is our pleasure to congratulate the winner of PRISMA's October Photo Competition: AlexanderWedekind "The waterfront of Oban just after sunset. Looking onto the Isle of Kerrera and the mountains of the Isle of Mull. I captured this on my phonecamerafrommyAirBnBduringatriptotheHighlands.”

Photo: Alec Waters

Cover art: Chloe Sinan