- 1. What stories does the candidate tell through her photos?
Through my photos, I try to describe the life of civilians during war time. My goal is to bring back information to people who cannot witness. In addition, It is important for me to show emotions, courage, solidarity but at the same time, to be able to explain on picture, the lack of empathie and the desire of revenge, which happens everytime in war zones.
It is important for me to cover all the opposing sides, as much as possible. (Israel/ Palestine, or in Syria: Rebels, Kurdish, and Regime side, and Isis: with many contacts from French jihadist). My goal and my wish are to have impact after my publications. I want to show the “grey lines” between all sides.
- 2. Under what conditions does the candidate work?
I collaborate with different media. Sometimes I have the chance to be sent on assignments in countries where I used to work. I can also go there alone, without any guarantees. I spend time in the field. I like to create relationships of trust with the locals. War zones are dangerous. Photojournalists are often on the front lines to bring back images. To prepare for this, I did specific training for journalists going to war zones. I have learned, to measure the risk and to listen to my fear. There are advantages to be a freelancer, such as the freedom to choose our reports, but also inconveniences, such as the loneliness of our profession and our isolation. We also find it difficult to sell stories, as editors have less and less resources and sometimes, they focus on national news. It is also an insecure job regarding money.
I also love to work in France, where I live.
- 3. How do the submitted photographs with this nomination capture the scope of the candidate’s work?
Choosing 12 images was very difficult. I decide to show the works which impacted me the most. The war in Syria, and Iraq and its consequences: (migration ect…). I started taking pictures in Syria. I decided to go there in 2013 in the Aleppo region to understand how a revolution can change. I wanted to tell the daily life of civilians bombed by the regime. Daesh then emerged and created its caliphate in a part of Syria and Iraq. So it was logical for me to start covering the story in Iraq.I wanted to show the devastating aspect of conflict but also resilience and courage. I wanted to tell the story of civilians, families, to bring them closer to our daily lives.I try to tell through my images that the trauma left behind is still present and stayed inside the hearts of people.
- 4. How do the candidate’s career and work reflect the values of Anja Niedringhaus?
I didn’t get the chance to meet Anja Niedringhaus but I know her work. As Anja Niedringhaus, I dedicate my life to this wonderful job. I do my best to denounce armed conflicts and devastated consequences on human beings.
I am persistent, passionate, and honest.
I feel lucky and honored when people allow me to take pictures of them, especially when they are going thought a difficult time, which will affect them probably forever.
