In this editorial, photographer Ryan Barhaug delves into the deep connection between nature and human emotion. Set against the serene backdrop of a farm in Illinois, Ryan’s vision was to capture the raw authenticity of the human experience as it intertwines with the natural world. By contrasting vibrant colors and natural elements with the model’s grounded and serious demeanor, he tells a story of complexity and multifaceted identity.
For this shoot, Ryan chose the Canon 5D Mark III, a camera known for its ability to capture high-quality images that faithfully reflect the subtle nuances of natural light and texture. His goal was to balance the crispness of the images with the soft, organic feel of the farm environment. The camera’s dynamic range allowed him to showcase the rich colors of the setting while maintaining the authenticity of the moments captured.
The farm itself played a crucial role in shaping the narrative. Its rustic charm and natural elements perfectly complemented the model’s raw, makeup-free appearance, enhancing the authenticity Ryan aimed to portray. The inclusion of farm animals like the horse and donkey added an organic, unfiltered layer to the shoot, deepening the connection between human and nature.
Inspired by natural beauty and the complexity of human emotion, Ryan’s artistic vision was guided by minimalism, leading to a clean and authentic presentation where nature played a central role. In post-production, Ryan made the significant decision to render an image with the horse in black and white, emphasizing the timeless quality of the moment and reinforcing the theme of authenticity.
Collaboration was key to bringing this editorial to life. With contributions from the team, Ryan created a cohesive visual narrative that captured the profound connection between nature and human emotion.
Team – Photographer – Ryan Barhaug @kvnty
Model – Eddie Wang – @eddiewang01
Assistant – Amanda Steidle
