Over the last year, Montana-based photographer Clark Dunbar has been shooting portraits of Native Americans in traditional dress while attending powwows. The evocative portraits give a wonderful glimpse into the pride the participants have for their traditions while also highlighting their unique personalities.

Dunbar embarked on this project, which he calls The PowWow Portrait Series, after looking for a way to diversify and update his portfolio. In doing so, he stumbled upon old notes from college, where he expressed the desire to take these types of portraits. Now the project continues to grow, with Dunbar planning to expand his visits to other areas of the country, as well as exhibit and publish the photographs.

“This has become a passion project to celebrate the culture and personalities of the individuals in their continuance and teaching of the traditions and their heritage,” Dunbar tells My Modern Met. For him, there is great pleasure in meeting people and seeing how the Native American traditions and culture are taught to the youth.

Dunbar hopes that, through his work, people will take the time to learn a bit more about Native American culture. “I hope the viewer sees the individual—the confidence, the pride, the culture—and wants to know more…listen to the stories and learn more about the culture.”

To assist with his work and help fund future exhibitions, Dunbar has set up a crowdfunding campaign. Scroll down to see more of his incredible portraits.

Montana-based photographer Clark Dunbar has spent the last year taking portraits of Native Americans at powwows.

He sets up a tent at the events and invites attendees to sit for a portrait while dressed in regalia.

“This has become a passion project to celebrate the culture and personalities of the individuals in their continuance and teaching of the traditions and their heritage.”

Clark Dunbar: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Clark Dunbar.

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READ: Photographer Attends Powwows To Take Evocative Portraits of Native Americans in Full Regalia

In 2019, documentary photographer and photo preservationist Terri Cappucci learned about a large collection of glass plate negatives from a co-worker. The current owner of the collection was downsizing and wouldn't be able to keep them. Cappucci, who had been producing her own 19th-century photographs using the wet plate collodion process for many years, was the ideal person to take ownership of the vast collection.

As she began wading through the 4,000 glass negatives that were taken on large and medium format cameras, Cappucci was transported to the 19th century. Taken by different photographers and spanning from the 1860s to the 1930s, the images are a look back in time. Interestingly, the photographs appear to have been taken in the same area of Massachusetts that Cappucci is from, which connected her to the work even more.

From there, Cappucci began to restore and digitize the images, something she is passionate about after flooding in her home studio wiped out 20 years of her work. Her regret at not digitizing and archiving her own negatives has pushed her to give proper care to the collection, which she kicked off with a fundraiser to purchase the appropriate materials. From there, she began lovingly restoring the work, much of which was in dire condition, and started a popular website and Facebook page, titled Somebody Photographed This, to publish the results.

In order to ensure that the collection remains intact and in good care, Cappucci recently donated the glass negatives to the UMass Amherst Libraries. The university is selective with what it acquires, and as an alumni, Cappucci knew that the work would be in good hands. Cappucci's scans will soon be available via the university's Credo database of digitized archival material, and they will continue carrying out the meticulous cataloging, preservation, and digitization that Cappucci started.

For Cappucci, the project's visibility gives her hope that people will see the value of historical imagery. And she also hopes that others who may have such collections realize their importance.

“Glass plate negatives should never be sitting in boxes in people’s attics or basements,” she shares. “Find someone who will give them the treatment they need and be sure that they are going to a place where they will be shared with the world.  I am always open to accepting collections, as I have been receiving them from other parts of the world as well.  If you are willing to ship them to me, I am willing to give them what they deserve.”

For those who want to support the project and donate to the continued work on the collection, Cappucci has reopened her GoFundMe.

See some of Terri Cappucci's favorite imagery from the collection of 19th-century glass plate negatives she came upon.

The work shows daily life in New England, though the authors of the photographs remain a mystery.

In the future, should she find a sponsor, Cappucci hopes to mount an exhibition of these historical images.

Watch Cappucci share the full story about how she acquired the glass negatives and restored them.

Somebody Photographed This: Website | Facebook
Terri Cappucci: Website | YouTube

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Terri Cappucci.

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READ: Restored Glass Negatives Capture Daily Life in 19th-Century New England

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Whether you know an amateur or professional photographer, there's nothing more satisfying than giving a new gadget to make their lives easier or jazz up their gear. Luckily, there's no shortage of interesting and creative gifts for your favorite photography lover.

Whether it's a colorful new camera strap or a handy light meter you can easily attach to your smartphone, you don't necessarily have to break the bank to gift something the photographer in your life will appreciate. Unsure of what would work as a great gift? Think about what would be helpful: camera accessories are a surefire way to enhance a photographer's creative process. Some of the products we've collected include camera storage boxes, tripods that work with both smartphones and most cameras, and a portable photo printer.

On the other hand, if you want to capture the essence of photography (maybe mixed with a little bit of humor), we also have a selection of homeware and clothing inspired by this modern art form. Some of these products merge iconic camera silhouettes with functional mugs, and others let wearers show off their passion in the form of sweatshirts and earrings.

Take a look around our full collection of the best photography gifts. You're sure to find something that will make your favorite photographer smile.

Looking for a fun gift for your favorite photographer? Check out our list of 30 creative photography gift ideas.

Camera Accessories

Leveling Camera Cube

FOTYRIG | $9.99

Custom Camera Strap with Optional Lens Pockets

ShutterSpeedStraps | from $25.62

14 in 1 Phone Camera Lens Kit

Godefa | $25.99

Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter

Uncommon Goods | $25

67″ Phone Tripod & Camera Stand

Aureday | $29.99

Instant Photo Printer

KODAK | $84.99

Mini Photo Studio Box

DUCLUS | $39.99

Quick Photography Reference Cards

Tip Info | $15.99

Video Conference Lighting Kit

LOUYC | $8.99

Custom Photo Art

Minted | from $17

Camera and Lens Storage Box

Neewer | $41.49

Create Your Own Reel Viewer Kit

uncommongoods | from $16.95

Unique Cameras

Lomography Lomo Instant Automat Glass Camera

Lomo | $199

Kodak EKTAR H35 Half Frame Camera

Kodak | $79.99

Hover Air Pocket Drone

HOVER | $387

Clothing and Accessories Inspired by Photography

Unisex Photography Sweatshirt

LuckApparelUS | $30.41+

Camera Lense Cuff Links

LittleGemGirl | $32.94+

Camera Print Scarf

Lina & Lily | $16.99

Mismatched Camera Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Aperture T-Shirt

Photogenic Supply | $39

Fun Photography-Themed Gifts

Clash of the Cameras Trump Card Game

Pixel Pete Gifts | $19.89

Classic & Digital Camera Christmas Tree Ornaments

Kurt Adler | $14.35

Canon-Shaped 32GB Flash Drive

UE STORE | $9.99

35mm Film Photographer Beer Glass

TogTees | $37.33+

Zoomable Camera Lens Mug

STRATA CUPS | $13.99

Chocolate DSLRs

Choc on Choc | $19.09

Retro Camera Pencil Holder

Bellaa | $12.99

Photography Coffee Mug

Retreez | $15.55

Photography Books

Rodney Smith A Leap of Faith

Rodney Smith | $65

Workbook and Assignment Notebook for Street Photographers

Eric Kim | $19.95

The Great LIFE Photographers

Bullfinch | from $59.90

The Photographer's Playbook: 307 Assignments and Ideas

Aperture | $13.99

Online Photography Courses

Photo: Stock Photos from Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

Introduction to Pet Photography: Capture the Spirit of Your Furry Friend via My Modern Met Academy | $45.95: Learn how to take a soulful portrait of your dog in a studio setting with the help of a renowned pet photographer.

Advanced Retouching Techniques via CreativeLive | $29: In this Photoshop retouching tutorial, Lindsay Adler covers advanced retouching techniques like frequency separation, liquify, and the warp tool.

Exploring Low-Key Portraiture via CreativeLive | $29: Explore the low-key portrait with Chris Knight. Learn how to maximize the detail in dark imagery through lighting and post-production.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 36 Creative Gifts for the Photography Lover

Photographer Reuben Wu is known for his Lux Noctis project, in which powerful lights attached to drones illuminate the landscape. In 2021, National Geographic called upon him to use his skills for its August 2022 cover. But it wasn't just any landscape that they asked him to photograph; it was the iconic Stonehenge. And recently, Wu remembered his time on-site when he posted an otherworldly outtake from the shoot on Threads.

Wu's challenge was to take one of the most photographed monuments in the world and present it in an unexpected manner. “Because of this familiarity, the perceived image of Stonehenge had always become a little unremarkable over the years,” Wu shares. “This project presented the perfect opportunity to show the monument in an extraordinary way.”

By using his drone to shine light on the monument from specific angles, Wu was able to conjure up the mystery and magic of the site in a way that speaks to its powerful ancient history. However, getting the shots that he was after was not easy.

“There was a lot of red tape in order to gain permission to fly a drone at night in a very protected national heritage site,” Wu recalls. “Not only that, but Stonehenge is located inside military airspace so we needed to present our project to the Royal Air Force as well. My drone pilot / digital tech Zac Henderson also had to pass his UK pilot exam to clear him for flight operations.”

While Henderson and Wu were not allowed to fly their drones directly above the stones, due to concerns about potential damage, they were still able to come away with some spectacular images. Though the final images used in National Geographic were more conservative, Wu's outtake shows just how incredible Stonehenge looks with light behind it.

The legend of Stonehenge is always awash with theories about extraterrestrials. Some people believe that aliens built the stone structure, while others just think that it's a good landing spot for UFOs.

Wu's photo plays with these concepts, as one can almost imagine a UFO hovering above the frame, shooting down a beam of light.

Reuben Wu recently reminisced about his time photographing Stonehenge for National Geographic.

 

Post by @reuben

View on Threads

 

Here's a look at the final cover and some images from the cover story.

Photo: Reuben Wu/National Geographic

Photo: Reuben Wu/National Geographic

Photo: Reuben Wu/National Geographic

Reuben Wu: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Reuben Wu.

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READ: Awe-Inspiring “Alien” Light Beams at Stonehenge Created With Drones

Watching films like Jurassic Park can make you wonder what it would be like to live in a world with dinosaurs. While it would definitely be strange for people, animals would probably be fearful of these prehistoric animals as well. Germany-based photographer Niki Colemont tests this theory in his playful series of photos where brave red squirrels tentatively interact with toy dinosaurs that are the same size they are.

Squirrels have been a muse for Colemont since 2016. As a self-taught photographer, he used these adorable creatures to practice his craft. “At first it began as a funny hobby, but over time I realized I could bring smiles to people's faces with my squirrel photos. Now my goal is to share my photos to spread joy and happiness in the world,” he tells My Modern Met. Capturing wildlife can be tricky though, so Colemont has to be patient, often waiting long periods of time for the perfect picture. “But when I see the smiles on people's faces when they see my photos, it reminds me why I do what I do,” he adds. “I want to keep capturing the entertaining antics and personalities of squirrels to spread laughter and lightness.”

Colemont decided to incorporate dinosaurs into his photography after thinking back to his childhood fascination with them. He came across toy dinos at the store and noticed that they were roughly the same size as red squirrels, sparking the idea to introduce these animals to the fearsome figurines. After planting the dinosaur toys outside, it took about three days for the squirrels to become accustomed to their presence. Then, Colemont cleverly lured the squirrels closer by placing enticing walnuts in the mouths of the toys.

This led to the fun and amusing photos of squirrels peeking inside a t-rex's mouth, and climbing along the backs of these prehistoric animals. “This project has been an exciting journey that started with my childhood love for dinosaurs and has evolved into a unique series of squirrel-dinosaur interactions,” Colemont says. “It is a testament to the adaptability of nature and the endless possibilities that stem from a simple childhood fascination.”

You can keep up to date with Colemont's latest work by following his Instagram.

Germany-based photographer Niki Colemont captures how squirrels interact with toy dinosaurs in charming photo series.

Using toys that are about the same size as squirrels, Colemont planted the figurines outside.

After a couple of days, squirrels got used to their presence and began to visit them.

Colemont planted walnuts in the mouths of the toy dinosaurs to lure the squirrels closer and snap the perfect photo.

‘

“This project has been an exciting journey that started with my childhood love for dinosaurs and has evolved into a unique series of squirrel-dinosaur interactions.”

“It is a testament to the adaptability of nature and the endless possibilities that stem from a simple childhood fascination.”

Niki Colemont: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Niki Colemont.

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READ: Playful Scenes of Squirrels Interacting With Toy Dinosaurs

“Kuwait, 1991” (Photo: © Sebastião Salgado)
“The fight against burning oil wells, Kuwait oil fields, 1991.”

Brazilian photojournalist Sebastião Salgado is being honored by the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards. Salgado, who has traveled to over 120 countries for his social documentary projects, will be the recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Photography award. It's a fitting show of respect for Salgado, whose career spans more than 50 years.

Known for his remarkable black-and-white photographs, Salgado began his life as an economist working for the International Coffee Organization. As part of his work, he often traveled to Africa, and it was during those trips that he began to take his photography more seriously. He began his career as a full-time photographer in 1973 and has never looked back.

“Ranging from poignant portraits of Indigenous communities and industrial workers, to surveys of migration and striking panoramas of the natural world, Salgado’s distinctive photographic style has resonated with global audiences,” shares the World Photography Organisation, which organizes the awards. “His images, exhibited across leading cultural institutions and featured in major publications around the world, have become emblematic of contemporary photographic journalism.”

Dozens of photos by Salgado will grace the walls of London's Somerset House as part of the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards exhibition. Running from April 19 to May 6, 2024, the exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to see the talented photojournalist's work in person. Some of the photos on view come from his projects Workers, which examines the effects of heavy manual labor across several industries, and Amazônia, which focuses on Brazil's Amazonian forest and the Indigenous peoples who inhabit it.

“I am honored to receive this award and to know that my work is reaching audiences,” shares Salgado. “Photography is my way of life, it is my language, and throughout my career, I have always been interested in capturing the historical moment in which we are living, and telling the stories of our species and our planet. A photographer photographs with his heritage, and in my work, I seek to explore our shared human experience.”

Renowned photojournalist Sebastião Salgado is the Outstanding Contribution to Photography recipient of the Sony World Photography Awards 2024.

“Ethiopia, 1984” (Photo: © Sebastião Salgado)
“Draped in blankets to keep out the cold morning wind, refugees wait outside Korem camp.”

Salgado is known for his remarkable black-and-white photography that focuses on social documentation.

“Galápagos, Ecuador, 2004” (Photo: © Sebastião Salgado)
“Marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus). Like other ectothermal reptiles, the marine iguana must regulate its own body temperature: as soon as the sun rises, it lies flat, warming as much body area as possible until the temperature reaches 95.9° Fahrenheit (35.5° Celsius); it then changes position to avoid overheating. The marine iguana needs a high body temperature in order to swim, to move about and to digest. Galápagos. Ecuador. January, February and March 2004.”

World Photography Organisation: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by the World Photography Organisation.

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READ: Sebastião Salgado’s Illustrious Photography Career Honored With Achievement Award

“He Looks to the Heavens” by Jacquie Matechuk (Canada). Overall Winner and Winner, Mammals.

Canadian nature photographer Jacquie Matechuk has been named the overall winner of the 2023 Nature Photographer of the Year competition. Her photo of a male spectacled bear looking to the sky as he took refuge in an old fig tree is an enchanting look at a rare species found in the Andean Mountain range. Her photograph beat out over 21,400 entries from photographers in 96 different countries.

“The Spanish moss hanging from this centuries-old fig tree gives an incredible sense of three-dimensionality while the soft light filtering through the colors highlights the profound connection between species and habitat in this image,” shares Marco Gaiotti, chair of the judging panel. “Finally, the pose of this spectacled bear fits perfectly into the texture of the photograph.”

Winners were also named in 12 different categories, as well as a special portfolio award. Standouts include Hermis Valiyandiyil's unique portrait of a hoopoe against a background sharply divided into light and dark, as well as XJ Toh‘s haunting photo of a nautilus using its predilection for attaching to jellyfish to cling to a piece of plastic packaging. The photographs won the Birds and Human and Nature categories, respectively.

“Usually, the critters attach to a jellyfish, but in this case, plastic pollution present in the ocean, seemed like a perfect carrier for the nautilus, oblivious that plastic does not have the same advantages food-wise as a jellyfish, the nautilus does have a confused look. The image was taken with one strobe used as backlight to emphasize the resemblance of plastic and jellyfish, and the photographer named the capture Sad Poncho, evoking the feeling of a rainy day, maybe a doomed future?” says juror Ellen Cuylaerts.

See more of the thought-provoking winners and runner-ups below; and if you are a nature photographer yourself, get ready. The 2024 edition of the competition will begin taking entries on December 20, 2023.

Here are the winners of the 2023 Nature Photographer of the Year contest.

“Dawn's Whispers: Graceful Hoopoe Silhouette at Sunrise” by Hermis Valiyandiyil (UAE). Winner, Birds.

“The Sad Poncho” by XJ Toh (Singapore). Winner, Human and Nature.

“Walk on the hill” by Őrsi Ákos (Hungary). Winner, Youth.

“No land for leopards” by Pruthvi B (India). Runner-up, Human and Nature.

“Shaking Off The Cold” by Jeffrey Kauffman (USA). Runner-up, Mammals.

“Star Spangled” by David Maitland (UK). Winner, Plants and Fungi.

The photo competition is organized by Nature Talks, which runs the annual Nature Talks Photo Festival.

“Sunset” by Jens Lax (Finland). Runner-up, Landscape.

“The Charge” by David Gibbon (UK). Runner-up, Black and White.

“The Pen and Inkwell” byt Jonathan Lhoir (France). Winner, Animal Portrait.

“The Ethereal Mist of the Wicker” by Juan Lucas (Pixelecta) (Spain). Runner-up, Nature Art.

“Long necks” by Zakariya Omran (Bahrain). Runner-up, Birds.

“The owls birch” by Anton Trexler (Germany). Runner-up, Youth.

“Paper Nautilus Rider” by Renee Capozzola (USA). Winner, Underwater.

Over 21,400 images photographers in 96 different countries were entered into the contest.

“Spider in frame” by Minghui Yuan (China). Runner-up, Other Animals.

“Balam, the endangered king of the Mayan jungle” by Fernando Constantino Martínez Belmar (Mexico). Winner, Portfolio.

“Heads or Tails” by Jodi Frediani (USA). Winner, Black and White.

“Big Ears” by Paul Mckenzie (Hong Kong). Runner-up, Animal Portraits.

“Big Wing” by Alex Pansier (Netherlands). Winner, Lage Landen.

Winners were named in 12 categories, and a special portfolio prize was also handed out.

“Austfonna Ice Cap” by Thomas Vijayan (Canada). Winner, Landscapes.

“December moth” by Imre Potyó (Hungary). Winner, Other Animals.

“Fields of Dreams” by J Fritz Rumpf​ (USA). Winner, Nature Art.

“Green triplets” by Johan de Ridder (Belgium). Runner-up, Lage Landen.

“ALPENSALAMADER” by Luc Rooman (Belgium). Runner-up, Underwater.

Nature Photographer of the Year: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by NPOTY.

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Set against the backdrop of a dusted pink sky, the icebergs almost glowed with an eerie luminescence. Glacial structures like these form and break away from Antarctica's sprawling ice shelf, drifting out from their fortresses into the water like sentinels scouting the open ocean. In the pastel shimmer of dusk, the world seemed perfectly still. But I knew deep beneath these icy giants was a symphony of frozen crystals forming and shattering; the silent call of the polar South.

Conservation photographer Cristina Mittermeier has dedicated her career to the protection of the natural world. Specifically, she is passionate about the state of our world's oceans, and through SeaLegacy, a non-profit she founded with her partner Paul Nicklen, she helps shine a spotlight on environmental issues through visual storytelling.

In a recent Facebook Story, Mittermeier called on world leaders to step up to the plight that Antarctica is facing. This fragile ecosystem is at a critical point due to numerous factors that include climate change, overfishing, and deep-sea mining.  Tackling the issue head-on, Mittermeier uses her creative skills as a photographer to remind the public of what is at stake.

We had a chance to speak with Mittermeier on the heels of the annual CCAMLR (Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources) to discuss the victories and challenges that the area faces. Read on for My Modern Met's exclusive interview and prepare to get inspired to effect change.

The evening sun catches the misty haze lingering over the glassy, icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. A humpback whale graces us ever so briefly with her presence before diving deep back under the dark sea.

What have been the biggest successes and challenges for ocean conservation in 2023?

There have been a number of wins so far this year, including the fact that many countries, including Canada and the UK, have placed a moratorium on Deep Sea Mining. Just like the wholesale liquidation of natural resources of land has had devastating effects on biodiversity and climate, the pursuit of mining assets at the bottom of the sea is a shortsighted, colonial proposal that will result in the further devastation of our oceans and our planet.

Knowing that countries are taking a serious look at understanding the ecology of the deep sea before any consideration is given to a mining proposal is a great step in the right direction.

Crabeater seal

We see a lot of imagery about Antarctica and the melting glaciers, rising water tables, etcetera. What are the biggest changes you've seen there in your latest trip?

The changes that are easy to see are the dislodging of enormous blocks of ice from the continental shelf. These icebergs will eventually melt completely and add a large amount of freshwater to the ocean ecosystem, which will contribute to changing currents and rising sea levels. In addition, the weather patterns have changed from ice and snow to rain, which makes the survival of young animals, like baby penguins, much harder.

The international body in charge of creating additional protections for the Southern Ocean, known as CCAMLR (Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources), has met several years in a row, and they have failed to develop an agreement to protect this fragile ecosystem, which is a real tragedy.

Nature is the greatest architect. This is just one the many examples of the stunning configurations of ice and water to be found across the southern continents' oceans. As the ocean heats up we risk losing these beautiful and critical creations of nature.

It's still sometimes difficult for individuals to see how they can effect change to reverse the climate trend. What do you recommend to those people who feel like they can't make a difference on their own?

Nobody is making a difference on their own. It is important to understand that for every naysayer, there are 1,000 people making strides to have a positive impact. From reducing the amount of meat we consume to traveling less to becoming less materialistic, shifting to greener energy, and being more invested in reducing waste, the collective effect is massive. We all need to do more, and we all need to donate more to environmental efforts. Environment and climate remain the most underfunded causes in the United States.

A Snow Petrel (Pagodroma nivea)glides through the snowy skies of the Drygalski Fjord in Antarctica. These graceful birds rely on the sea ice for hunting and rest while on the open sea.

CCAMLR 2023 just wrapped up. What are your biggest takeaways from what happened there?

I am baffled that a country like Russia, which is in the middle of an illegal war, would be allowed to have a voice in the decision to not protect the Southern Ocean. Still, in the end, conservation happens by consensus, and even though every other member country of CCAMLR elected to enact protections, the single voice of a rogue Russia negated the effort. Tragic, really.

What's on your list creatively and as an activist for the new year?

I am working on my first Masters of Photography course, and I have been busy creating new work and editing old work for both that course and my upcoming exhibition at Galleria D'Italia.

Cristina Mittermeier: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Cristina Mittermeier.

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READ: Cristina Mittermeier on the Environmental Trials and Tribulations of Antarctica [Interview]

Daytona Beach was full of fun facial hair as contestants arrived for the 2023 Honest Amish National Beard and Moustache Championships. Photographer Elle Jaye was on hand to shoot the official portraits that let us see the incredible beards, mustaches, and goatees that entered this year's competition.

Participants entered a wide variety of categories and classes that allow for everything from neatly groomed facial hair to fantastical, crafted facial hair that uses creative materials to give the illusion of a beard or mustache. But, by far, the freestyle category is where contestants really shine, as they use their natural hair to create incredible shapes. The final results are sculptural and demonstrate just how much you can do with a beard or mustache.

Jaye's portraits capture the pride these contestants have for their facial hair. For many, it's taken years to perfect their look, and the satisfaction of what they've achieved is written all over their carefully groomed faces. Winners were named in an incredible 47 different categories, but it was Jacob Darlington who took home the top prize and earned the Best in Show award. His big win came after he first took the top slot in the Full Beard Garibaldi.

According to the official contest website, a Garibaldi beard is “wide and round at the bottom, and no more than 8 inches in length as measured from the bottom of the lower lip.” A natural appearance is preferred, and “the mustache may not be made distinct from the beard or styled.”

See more of Jaye's portraits of our favorite winners and finalists below and get inspired by their creativity.

Jacob Darlington won Best in Show at the 2023 National Beard and Moustache Championship.

Photographer Elle Jaye captured the official portraits of the finalists and winners.

Contestants competed in 47 different categories that honor creative facial hair.

From fantastical freestyle beards to meticulously groomed mustaches, the contestants showed off their creations.

Elle Jaye: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Elle Jaye.

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READ: Admire the Creative Facial Hair From the 2023 National Beard and Moustache Championships

“Fire Dragon Dancer
at the Night” by Zhuowen Ao. Grand Winner. Shot with OnePlus 11

Tech brand OnePlus showed off the creative power of its mobile phones at the renowned Lucie Awards. Held annually to celebrate achievements in photography, the Lucies is a prestigious event that OnePlus helps sponsor. And, as part of the celebrations, eight winners from the OnePlus Photography Awards were exhibited in New York along with other top winners from the International Photo Awards.

“The partnership between the International Photography Awards and OnePlus has given rise to a global photography sensation. This is a magnificent showcase of artistic flair, creativity, and talent hailing from every corner of the globe through the power of mobile phones,” said Hossein Farmani, IPA Founder and President. “We are thrilled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the International Photography Awards with OnePlus. Our collaboration with OnePlus is a milestone we take immense pride in. Throughout the partnership, we have seen the true potential and power of mobile photography, and we look forward to continuing to work together with OnePlus to make great photography more accessible while encouraging everyone with a phone camera to become a photographer capable of capturing and sharing special moments with the world.”

The winners of the OnePlus Photography Awards were announced in August, with photographer Zhuowen Ao taking home to top prize. His exceptional image of a fire dragon dancer at Chinese New Year shows the power of the OnePlus 11. Sparks of light from the celebration are perfectly captured as the dancer walks through the darkness, showing that the mobile phone can handle tough lighting situations.

The other images placed on display were taken from the competition's three categories—Infinite Nature, City Voice, and Visions of Night. Each image is a masterclass in mobile photography and fits in beautifully with the other work in the exhibition. From a mysterious ice cave to a crowded subway car, there was nothing that these photographers couldn't capture with their phones.

Check out some of the incredible winners of the OnePlus Photography Awards.

“Ice Cave” by Chen Ma. 1st Place, Infinite Nature, Official Website. Shot with OnePlus 11

“Crowded Metro Station” by Hhersher Sun. 3rd Place, City Voice, Official Website. Shot with OnePlus 8T

“The Hangrang Valley” by Samyak Jain. 1st Place, Infinite Nature, Social Media Group. Shot with OnePlus 9 Pro

“Ferris Wheels” by Rijan Sangat. 3rd Place, Visions of Night, Official Website. Shot with OnePlus 10 Pro

“The Golden Spruces” by Luca Camminati. 2nd Place, Infinite Nature, Official Website. Shot with OnePlus 9 Pro

“Orion Stars” by mohandravid. 1st Place, Visions of Night, Social Media Group. Shot with OnePlus 9 Pro

“Midwest Midnight” by Justen Christensen. 1st Place, Visions of Night, Official Website. Shot with OnePlus Nord N20

OnePlus: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by OnePlus.

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READ: Stunning Winners of the OnePlus Photography Awards Show the Power of Mobile Photography