GHOST

LINDA AMANG

// Linda, based in Caen, discovered photography as a way to alleviate stress. She finds grounding in the art form, appreciating the way it sharpens one’s eye for detail. The thrill of capturing spontaneous moments on the street fuels her passion. Immersing herself in the stories of the city, she often edits her photos with a cinematic flair. In this series, however, she went beyond street photography, embracing portraiture in motion to show the true nature of her subject to the extent made possible by the artistic process.

About why she moved on from straight street photography, Linda says, “I guess I started to feel hemmed creatively speaking. I was already flirting with the boundaries of street photography for a while; it didn’t feel like enough anymore.

Although, it remains my first love, I am ready to also search for authenticity elsewhere. It’s enjoyable to let go and simply follow my spark. So concerning tomorrow just a promise to myself: embracing the fear of self-expression. “

“I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘uh oh, they’re going to find out now.”

Maya Angelou

What draws you to the arts?

Cinema! The way it destabilizes its audience through framing, angle, sound and music. I enjoy the possibilities it offers, the escape… I want my opinions to be challenged, to feel uneasy, overwhelmed.

What do you like best about this project?

This series is my doubts, my fears, my perfectionism, my contradictory thoughts yelling to each other; and this is me screaming my frustration to the void.

I love long exposure. Slowing the shutter is like eating a “Kinder surprise”: you enjoy the process never knowing what you’ll get at the end. And at pitch-black night with just a street light, the city becomes a canvas.

The series “Ghost” is about finding one’s identity, introspection… maybe being kinder to oneself. Linda did not want her subject to appear to be a one-dimensional person. She wanted to represent every characteristic, whether good or bad (depending on your views). She says, “This session felt like an exorcism. Not in a way that I wanted to make my ghosts disappear. It’s more about acceptance, and not letting anything have a hold over me. From my haunting negative thoughts, I think I created something beautiful, and I feel truly seen on the picture.”

Linda’s collaboration with the model Hakim Agostini marked a significant turning point in her artistic journey. Initially, the pressure to meet expectations and the self-doubt that often accompanies emerging artists made the process challenging.

However, as the session progressed, a genuine connection formed between Linda and her model. They engaged in open and honest conversations about creativity and aspirations, leading to a spontaneous and authentic creative expression.

This newfound freedom allowed Linda to embrace her true artistic voice and overcome her self-doubt. The resulting series is a testament to her growth as an artist, capturing her vulnerability, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to her craft.

Click on the photos to see the original larger version. Images may be cropped for layout.