I have recently returned from southern Algeria. I ended up doing a side experiment, using my old Polaroid Land Camera. The boundless desert sands and wandering camels of Southern Algeria mask the evident desperation and urgency of the plight of the "Africa's Last Colony" refugees. Harsh terrain, fatal sandstorms and temperatures of 120 degrees are home to more than 155,000 Sahrawi refugees and have been living since 1975. It’s UNHCR’s second oldest caseload.
I recently returned from a 4 day trip to Amsterdam, in what turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. The annual World Press Photo Awards Day consists of 3 day's filled with presentation from the World's leading photojournalists, lectures by industry leaders, the exhibition unveiling and dinner hosted by Canon, and finally the Award's night with after-party - not to mention late night collaboration and good times with new and old friends.
On the final night, settling into my seat at the awards ceremony, lights dimming, sitting amongst photographers I've looked up to for a long time, a wave of emotion hit me; the surrealism I'd been experiencing left and the reality of receiving photojournalisms' highest honor overwhelmed me. I couldn't get over where I was and what was happening - I don't know if I ever will.
I did a little interview about the image, you can see it here.
Photo © Emin Özmen
Photo © Emin Özmen
