American Photography 42 Winners

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Nikita Payusov

Silk and Silence in Shiraz

For this assignment, I traveled to Shiraz, Iran, to document the vibrant traditions of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, when many Iranians journey across the country to iconic and historic places. I photographed women preparing within Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque. This project explores how these enduring traditions persist within modern Iranian society, revealing a living connection between contemporary life and a deeply rooted historical narrative.
Nikita Payusov

Procession in White Silence

This image is part of a long-term project documenting the Shia community in New York City. It shows the first procession of its kind to begin in Brooklyn and cross the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan. The photograph was taken during a blizzard this winter, as members of the community carried a symbolic coffin in mourning of Imam Musa al-Kazim. Participants moved together across the bridge despite the heavy snowfall and cold conditions.