Bodies of work

Prize-winning snapper wins acclaim for her captivating images that combine medical photography with an artistic aesthetic.

In the theater, crafted by Zhao Xin with light and shadows, time seems to flow backward and dreams become reality, as animal specimens are not only bound by the laws of nature, but have a life of their own.

Through her lens, bodies of whales, gnus, lizards, pangolins, polar bears and giraffes are cast in a state of running, flying or roaring.

She ensures that the brightest and predominating light is placed at the specimens' heads and peters out along their torso.

"The photos were taken from a personification approach, and I'd like to express the subjects the way we understand ourselves," says Zhao, who has explored integrating photography art with medical development for more than two decades.

"Gazing at these images, I hope the viewer can be immersed in contemplation about life and time, and be reminded that these vibrant beings once existed in the world," Zhao says.

"In fact, during the expression of death, it reflects on many human actions. Through these images, I'd like to 'resurrect' the subjects and have them forever live alongside us," she adds.