Drew Doggett – Band of Rebels: White Horses of Camargue

The horses in Camargue, France have a prehistoric lineage dating back to the 1500s, and their pronounced musculature and signature white coats gives them an otherworldly appearance. They are a fitting subject for Drew; his practice focuses on documenting unfrequented locations while still utilizing the tools, sympathies and the attention to detail learned in fashion photography.

“For the Camargue Horses series, one of my primary interests was recording the motion of the horses against the minimal, monotone nuances of the water and land – all existing within one end of the light spectrum. The contrast between their strength and confidence, as is evident through defined musculature and a sense of pride that exudes from their posture, and the calm of the background is undeniable; they seem to be blissfully unaware of this stark dichotomy yet have complete ownership of the land around them.”

He also felt inclined to document the textural effects of the horses running through the mud, dirtying their pristine coats but also creating a painterly finish that referenced modern art. This quality became especially prominent in contrast with the horses bare, clean coats; one of their most identifiable factors as a breed. In studying the nature of these herd animals a clear hierarchy was evident. He chose Camargue not only for the rarity of this horse’s breed but also to study the quiet and tender moments in between their interactions. The defined physical features of these horses, especially seen in movement, is a hallmark of their makeup. When they are at rest the effect is different, albeit majestic; they quietly exude grace and power.

Drew Doggett (b. 1984, Maryland) lives and works in Charleston, South Carolina. From 2006-2012 he worked under world-renowned fashion photographers like Mark Seliger (his former mentor), Steven Klein, Craig McDean and more. Drew left NY to travel to the Himalayas, where he decided to combine his love of photography with his passion for exploring and telling stories – all while utilizing the discipline, sympathies and skills he learned working in fashion. Since then, Drew has embarked on journeys across the globe to document extraordinary cultures and locales as both an award-winning photographer and director. He has also added a charitable component to his practice; with each new series he finds a way to give back either through sales proceeds or otherwise. His work can be found in public and private collections globally, notably the Smithsonian African Art Museum (DC). He has also been featured in many publications, most recently interviewed in Photographer Magazine and featured in Outside Magazine. He has been sponsored by brands like Hasselblad and Leica and was recently honored as an Associate from the Royal Photographic Society.

Website: drewdoggett.com

via: Submissions