Asafe Ghalib is a self-taught photographer renowned for their advocacy of the LGBTQIA+ community. Over the years, Ghalib has collected recognition through features in respected publications such as Gay Times and Dazed, as well as receiving multiple photography awards. As a prominent non-binary figure in the creative industry, Ghalib has continually explored their own identity and relationships, infusing these personal narratives into their editorials.
Ghalib's work is principally inspired by and collaboratively engaged with LGBTQIA+ individuals to enhance diversity within the creative industry. Ghalib's photography is embedded with a multitude of experiences and identities, resulting in a more inclusive and authentic portrayal of the LGBTQ community. Their work supports for diversity and equality but also cultivates creativity and innovation by integrating diverse perspectives and styles.
Fashion and imaginative storytelling connects in Asafe Ghalib's Dystopian Beauty editorial shoot, designed by Julian Scarry. This editorial defies conventions and pushes artistic boundaries by exploring a distinct aesthetic and thought-provoking definition of beauty. Ghalib's innovative approach to photography in this work offers a fresh perspective on fashion and beauty by playing with shadows and highlights to bring out an edge within dystopian beauty.
© Asafe Ghalib
The Canon EOS R5 lens captures Dystopian Beauty with exceptional quality. The camera is positioned at an eye-level angle, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the model and how all elements of the model's clothing come together to create a unique image. Overhead lighting illuminates the model's face, drawing the audience's attention to the model and how the makeup and clothing reflect off of one another. Dystopian beauty in photography incorporates elements of darkness and futuristic themes. Therefore, the use of backlighting behind the model adds a dramatic effect by creating depth and dimension, separating the model from the background. This dynamic element can produce a halo effect around the model, which often highlights the unique characteristics of this style resulting in a visually appealing image that captivates the audience.
Asafe Ghalib is also dedicated to elevating the narratives of queer immigrants and addressing the historical misrepresentation of the LGBTQIA+ community. Another editorial of Ghalib's, Queer Immigrants, delves into the concept of migration as a fundamental human right, drawing from their personal experiences of leaving Rio de Janeiro. They articulate how being queer in one's own hometown can lead to a sense of restriction and a lack of belonging, compelling individuals to seek out spaces where they can freely express their identities.
Ghalib's ongoing mission includes photographing members of the LGBTQIA+ community, aiming to highlight and celebrate their unique stories and the significance of each individual. Through this work, Ghalib not only advocates for visibility and representation but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse experiences within the queer community.
To gain deeper insights into Asafe Ghalib's impactful project on queer immigrants and its significant relevance in today's society, visit their website. Here, you'll find an overall look at their work, highlighting the narratives of LGBTQIA+ individuals and how impactful their work is to the world.
