Fotómetro’s new photo series celebrates the beauty in the bizarre

Proof of Existence, Rona Bar and Ofek Avshalom15 Images

‘Sonder’ is the term for the profound feeling of realising that everyone, including strangers passing in the street, has a life as complex as one’s own. Proof of Existence, the latest project from photography duo Ofek Avshalom and Rona Bar, visualises this feeling. Known collectively as Fotómetro, Avshalom and Bar set out to capture our rich inner worlds by setting the mundane and the bizarre side by side.

Juxtaposing ordinary spaces with enigmatic characters, the shoot sees everyday locations – such as road crossings, blocks of flats, and public parks – become backdrops for abundant individuality. “We knew we wanted to craft a world where these different characters could exist and live their everyday lives. Once we had the general idea, inspiration flowed from everywhere – art, music and locations around London,” they explain.

Avshalom and Bar say they find inspiration in surrealism, fantasy and camp. “Other inspirations for this project came from photographers we admire, such as Diane Arbus, Roger Ballen, Alec Soth, and Tim Walker. They have all influenced our approach to photography.”

The idea of ‘celebrating difference’ is central to the series. This is something personal to Bar. “Growing up, I was constantly exposed to mainstream media, which affected the way I perceived beauty,” she explains. “My struggle with body image drove me to promote a more inclusive and diverse perception of beauty standards.” This push for inclusivity is evident throughout the shoot, with models cast from Zebedee Talent Agency – an agency that represents people with disabilities and visual differences. “My exploration of these themes has helped me in my own journey to self-acceptance.”

Pin It — Ezekiel in the golden hourModel - Ezekiel @longlivesinclair , Make up - Elle McMahon @elle_mcmahon_returns

The fantasy world of Proof of Existence is brought to life through distinctive makeup looks created by Elle McMahon. There are also collaborations with emerging London-based designers, curated by the project’s creative director Bessy Huang. The meticulous attention to detail adds depth to the characters. “The creation process of this project allowed us freedom, being a true embodiment of creativity and self-expression,” Avshalom and Bar say.

To evoke the feeling of a documentary series, despite the images being clearly staged, Fotómetro employed various techniques. They encouraged the models to act intuitively, allowing moments to unfold naturally. “The decision to include still life images in the series adds to the documentary feel. These images are deliberately placed among the characters in the series, prompting curiosity about the relationships between the characters and the still life, and contributing to the enigmatic atmosphere of the series,” they explain. The still-life elements serve as a narrative tool, enhancing the sense of realism and inviting viewers to explore more personal connections within each scene. As they put it: “All we had to do was capture them.”

The characters in Proof of Existence are both striking and complex. “Whether it’s Hannah dressed in an outfit built like an armchair and positioned in front of a large mansion, but also holding her own wig and cane; Myah, wearing their own design inspired by the battle between their religious upbringing and their queer identity; or Diogo in his drag character ‘Co Kendra’ captured in his own house,” they detail. “We had an opportunity to include the most unique and beautiful people who made this project even more special and authentic to its message.”

Through their work, Fotómetro advocates for solidarity, open-mindedness, and greater inclusion and diversity in media and society. “Our characters are total rebels who aren’t afraid to be themselves and break free from societal norms. We hope their willingness to challenge the status quo inspires you to tap into the boundless potential of your own human spirit for creative expression and individuality.”