Captivating Portraits Of The Human Form Hiding Behind Reflections In Nature

Humans may be an extension of the Earth and required to live in harmony with nature to thrive, but few follow this logic in their everyday lives it seems. Perhaps it’s because of this that sickness of the mind and body are prevalent, particularly in ‘developed’ nations where few spend time outdoors, eat unprocessed foods, and fill their minds with toxic media and television.

It’s curious to ponder, and especially so after scrolling through the following images. Captured by American photographer Loreal Prystaj, the portraits reveal the photographer in the lush landscape of Finland covered by nothing more than a mirror. The reflecting object acts as a form of camouflage, and only her bare arms and legs betray her presence. Enchantingly surreal, they inspire one to ponder mankind’s relationship with the natural world.

“Often times, mirrors are used to emphasize the minute details, but rarely used to look at the big picture. What if nature looked at itself? What would it see? What would we be?” Prystaj asks. “Would our identity stand out or would we be a small detail? Would nature change us? Would we be a beauty mark or a blemish? Accentuated? Concealed? From observing nature’s schedule and landscapes, I placed myself in its environments while nature looked at itself in the mirror.”

Prystaj earned her BFA in 2013 and is considered to be a rising star in the field due to her contributions. As This Isn’t Happiness shares, she was recently awarded the top prize in the Fine Art: Conceptual category of the NDA Photo Awards. Visit her website and Instagram page to learn more.