Images as Bridges
On the occasion of Leica’s 100th anniversary, documentary photographer Lys Arango speaks about inspiration and creative responsibility – and explores the parallels between her work in Asturias and Ara Güler’s iconic images of Istanbul as testimonies to societal change.
100 years of Leica photography – what do you think about this achievement?
Lys Arango: Reaching 100 years is an incredible milestone, not just for Leica as a brand but for photography as a whole. Leica has been a pioneer, consistently pushing the boundaries of what photography can achieve. Its history reflects a deep commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, and it has become synonymous with iconic images and storytelling. Personally, being a part of this legacy through my exhibition feels like an honour and a responsibility. It’s a moment to reflect on how the medium has evolved and how we, as photographers, carry that torch forward to document the world with both technical precision and emotional depth.
How has the work of LHOF winners influenced your work?
The work of Leica Hall of Fame winners has always been a source of inspiration for me. Their images go beyond aesthetics; they tell stories that resonate on a human level. For example, Sebastião Salgado’s ability to document humanity and the environment has influenced my approach to long-term projects. Similarly, Ara Güler’s work – rich in texture and deeply rooted in the culture of Istanbul – reminds me of the importance of connecting with the soul of a place. These photographers show that documentary work is not just about capturing moments but about preserving stories and emotions – a philosophy that aligns with my own.
What are the similarities or differences that become visible in this dialogue?
The dialogue between my work and Ara Güler’s reveals both similarities and contrasts. On the one hand, there’s a shared focus on documenting transitions – Ara Güler’s Istanbul reflects a city caught between modernity and tradition, much like my Asturias project captures the shift from coal mining to green energy. Both explore themes of identity, resilience, and change. On the other hand, our visual languages differ. His black and white street photography exudes spontaneity, while my work leans toward a more intimate approach, blending portraits, landscapes, and symbolic elements to convey a broader narrative. Together, our works form a compelling conversation about how places and people adapt to the passage of time.
Which picture from the selection of the LHOF winner do you like best and why? Can you describe it briefly?
One image that stands out to me is Ara Güler’s photograph of the Kumkapi fishermen returning to port in the first light of dawn. The composition is beautifully layered, capturing the interplay of light, texture, and movement. For me, it’s a poetic depiction of their relationship with the sea. The soft morning light, combined with the dynamic energy of the scene, creates a timeless image. This ability to convey both the hardship and the beauty of a way of life is something I deeply admire and aspire to reflect in my own work.
What role do galleries play in the age of digital media, and specifically for your work?
Galleries remain vital, even in the digital age. While digital platforms allow for a broader reach, they often lack the intimacy and depth that physical spaces provide. A gallery creates an environment where viewers can engage with a body of work as it was intended to be seen – unhurried, immersive, and tactile. For my work, which often combines conceptual and documentary elements, exhibiting in a gallery is essential. It allows me to control the narrative through curation, scale, and presentation, offering a richer and more nuanced experience. Galleries also foster dialogue and connection, serving as spaces where stories can truly resonate with audiences.
Lys Arango:
The Spanish photographer and writer lives where she works, but is currently based in Paris. A graduate in International Relations and with a Master's Degree in Journalism, she develops long-term documentary stories exploring photography, text and sound. Alongside her personal practice, Lys has worked on assignments for international NGOs, the UN, and several magazines and newspapers. Between 2016 and 2019, she worked in 17 countries immersed in deep food crises. Now she tackles humanitarian issues from a new angle, exploring how they converge in a historical and cultural context. Driven by research-led, self-initiated projects, Lys seeks to fully understand the lives of those she captures, in order to portray them as truthfully as possible.
Ara Güler:
In over six decades Güler produced unforgettable pictures of the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul. His black and white motifs reflect his love for and familiarity with the city where he was born in 1928, the son of a respected apothecary of Armenian descent. After studying economics, Güler decided to pursue a career as a photojournalist. He photographed all over the world with his Leica, because he wanted to be seen as more that just a chronicler of the Turkish city: “People call me a photographer of Istanbul, but I’m a world citizen. I’m a photographer of the world.” In 2016 he was acknowledged for his life’s work with the Leica Hall of Fame Award.
