Mania De Praeter, a neurosurgeon based in Antwerp, has developed a profound passion for street photography, capturing the subtle beauty of everyday moments in black and white. Her journey into photography intensified during the pandemic lockdowns, when travel restrictions confined her to her hometown. Armed with a new camera, she began exploring local streets, discovering and documenting the hidden charm in familiar surroundings. This period marked a significant shift in her perspective, as she learned to appreciate the extraordinary within the ordinary.
De Praeter’s photographic approach is deeply influenced by her belief that photography parallels painting, aiming to create images that captivate and resonate. She meticulously crafts her compositions, often waiting patiently for the perfect interplay of light and shadow to bring a scene to life. Her work transforms mundane situations into compelling visual narratives, highlighting the emotions and stories embedded in daily life. This dedication to capturing the essence of her subjects results in photographs that linger in one’s memory.
The choice of black and white in De Praeter’s photography serves to distill scenes to their fundamental elements, emphasizing composition, contrast, and the subtleties of human interaction. By removing the distraction of color, she directs attention to the core emotions and stories within each frame. Her images evoke a timeless quality, reminiscent of classic street photography, yet imbued with a contemporary sensibility that reflects her unique vision and experiences.
More info: Instagram.
