“…Photography, for me, is a way to develop empathy toward society, and I try to reflect that in my images…”
In our hyper-saturated world, where each day we’re bombarded with an endless stream of new images, Luisa Dörr (judge of our 2025 Portrait Award) stands out.
The Brazilian photographer is quickly building a reputation as one of the world’s most creative and perceptive photographers, using her work as a powerful vehicle to tell the stories of those she portrays.
You may have seen her stunning portraits of Bolivian skaters dressed in traditional, colorful ‘polleras’, symbols of cultural pride in the country’s rural areas. Her series depicting their compatriots, “The Flying Chollitas”, who use wrestling to express and reclaim indigenous pride. Or perhaps her photographs of the “Falleras”, dressed in elaborate traditional outfits to celebrate the annual Fallas festival in Valencia, Spain.
The Brazilian photographer is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the world’s most creative and perceptive image-makers, using her work as a powerful medium to tell the stories of those she portrays.
She describes her focus as “the feminine human landscape,” driven by her fascination with the complexity of human nature and femininity. Like the great portrait photographers before her, Dorr brings sensitivity to her work—an ability to connect and gain trust with her subjects—while also exuding confidence and boldness that mirrors the essence of those she captures.
What first sparked your interest in photography? Was there a specific moment or experience that made you realize this was your path?
LD: I got my 1st camera when I was five. I barely even remember. I always carried a camera and photographed everything. Photography was always my language and my way to communicate with society. It helped me to understand more about myself and the world. It’s also the way I feel when I’m photographing—I’m a much more curious and courageous person.
Could you share the three photographers who have inspired you the most?
LD: I admire Diane Arbus and her ability to capture vulnerability and the frequently overlooked facets of society in her photography. Her portraits have the power to evoke profound emotions in me. Sally Mann is a wonderful portrait photographer. I admire the way she captures the lives of her family, including her sometimes controversial portraits of her children. She consistently conveys emotions through her images, skillfully capturing intimate moments. Evgenia Arbugaeva’s work, for me, is akin to a dream. She captures moments of wonder and nostalgia that transport me to another time, unveiling mysteries and beauty.
What is it about portraiture that fascinates you?
LD: I’m fascinated by the human topography of faces. They give you so much room to imagine all sorts of stories and feelings, even before you read the caption. Portraits have been the center of art for millennia. I firmly believe that faces serve as a universally rich source for storytelling.
LD: Regardless of the era or location, faces resonate on a profound emotional level, whether captured in paint, sculpture, or through the lens of a camera. For me, it seems like the right vessel to transport our brain to a more sublime state of mind. I guess it is because we can relate instantly to it. Whenever possible, I love to integrate the person into a landscape, whatever is available, just like the classical painters used to do—a background that amplifies the persona.
You’ve captured some fascinating stories—how do you find and choose the ones you want to tell? Where do you draw your inspiration from?
LD: For this one I’ll give an example, when I saw the first image of Imilla on Instagram, I immediately felt the urge to know more about them. That’s usually my main drive—a personal need to expand my understanding of the world. Photography, for me, is a way to develop empathy toward society, and I try to reflect that in my images. Beyond that personal connection, I also saw an opportunity for a compelling photo essay—one that could bring together themes of youth, identity, minorities, ethnography, sports, politics, cultural heritage, and breaking stereotypes. Imilla embodied all of these.
LD: Our first contact was on Instagram, and we planned the project over WhatsApp. Although I spent only two weeks with them, we had been in touch for months before I was finally able to travel due to the pandemic. During that time, I researched them—reading local news, about their culture, exploring their Instagram, and learning about the city. I arrived with a structured plan, but as always, it evolved based on reality, their perspectives, and unexpected moments.
Before taking any photos (for personal projects), I prioritize connection—I sit down for a conversation, share a meal or coffee, and build trust. That dialogue is essential before I even pick up the camera.
As a judge of our Portrait Award, what advice would you give to participants?
LD: To all participants, I encourage you to trust in the power of your stories—be bold, be honest. Your work has the potential to inspire, educate, and create meaningful connections. Each photograph is a unique expression of your vision, and that vision can resonate far beyond this competition. I look forward to learning from you.
All images © Luisa Dörr