Russian Pensioners.

Every week, Russian pensioners come to collect a food parcel and spend some time talking over tea and biscuits. At first, I was meant to develop a classic project based on one portrait and one life story, in order to raise awareness and empathy during the organisation’s annual fundraising campaign.

It took some time for us to get to know one another. On the day I made this series, I thought I would be conducting a few experiments. I began taking portraits in natural light, against the wall of the parish centre where they meet. No additional lighting, no make-up and no Photoshop retouching of wrinkles, eyes or skin. Each person chose their attitude, with or without a smile. Some were shy, while others were very at ease. Everyone present willingly agreed to be photographed and enjoyed the session.

The one-portrait/one-story principle remains, but something broader and unexpected took place. At the end of the session, there was a shared feeling that we had spent a good moment together, along with a sense of pride and self-respect in being photographed. Beauty and dignity radiate from this series.

Each person received their portrait. The organisation is authorised to use the photographs within the framework of its programmes.