1ST PRIZE: Marcin Jozefiak

“The caption says that this is the beginning of a series, and I can’t wait to see the rest. This photograph is subservice in its softness; an exploration of Korean subcultures and thus its diversity, and this person, who may exude a toughness in other settings, is shown with vulnerability and humanity. The muted tones, the slight pop of the person being photographed from the background, the crossed arms and head in repose, all add to the success and intimacy of this photograph.” — Peter DiCampo

2ND PRIZE: Mat Hay

“This is one of those rare photographs in which everything comes together. We notice first the light, the expressions. We look closer and see the feather boa around her head, and how it swirls down the frame continues into the blanket and all the way to the floor. There is simultaneously a sense of these two girls being rooted in place and, at the same time, a sense of magic as the two girls seem to be both living in a dream and themselves dreaming. As the viewer, we learn about their lives through the photograph and are also left wanting to know everything else about their lives that the photograph cannot tell us.” — Peter DiCampo

3RD PRIZE: Heun Jung Kim⁠

“As befits the finest portraiture, Heun Jung Kim’s exquisite depiction is characterized by a remarkable sensitivity and perspicacity, along with a masterful comprehension of light and form. Perfectly capturing the intricate, textural beauty of the subjects brightly-hued ‘Hanbok’ attire, and the mother’s quiet maternal pride and strength, this tender image serves as an utterly compelling representation of Korea’s enduring cultural heritage, and as a powerful symbol of hope amongst the tumult and abnormality of our world today. “ – The Independent Photographer Editors