Crossing Borders and Lenses: Zélie Hallosserie’s Portraits of Passage
A new chapter in photography prizes has opened with the Saltzman-Leibovitz award, where the spotlight falls on Zélie Hallosserie, a 21-year-old French photographer capturing the raw realities of migrants in Calais. Her project, “The Game,” documents the journeys of people from Iraq to Eritrea as they prepare for uncertain crossings to the UK, offering a rare, unfiltered look at hope and hardship at Europe’s edge.
Unlike the celebrity portraits Annie Leibovitz is known for, this prize—co-founded with Lisa Saltzman—champions emerging artists who use their lens to challenge stereotypes and humanize overlooked stories. Hallosserie’s sensitive approach stands out for its emotional honesty, inviting viewers to see resilience where others see crisis. The shortlisted artists, drawn from a mentorship program, reflect a global tapestry of perspectives, all set to be showcased at Photo London 2025.
In a world quick to label, Hallosserie’s images linger, urging a second look at the faces behind the headlines.
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