Interview with Abed Halawi | Displaying Timeless Charm of Urban Life in Stills

I am largely self-taught, having complemented my learning with personal mentorship and extensive practice.

My first shot was taken on September 4, 2013, during my first travel trip to Berlin, Germany. It was a close-up of the majestic horses at the Brandenburg Gate in Pariser Platz, captured from a low angle that emphasized their grandeur and filled the frame with their imposing presence.

My current gear is a Leica Q with a fixed 28mm lens, a highly capable tool that seamlessly integrates into my workflow. Its design allows me to focus on the creative aspects of my photography while providing all the essential data needed to process and perfect each image.

Through my photography, I hope to offer a unique perspective that elevates the mundane, celebrates the beauty around us, and harnesses the power of the lens to reveal what might otherwise go unnoticed by the naked eye.

The compliment that touched me the most was being recognized among so many talented photographers. It is an incredible honor that validates my work and inspires me to continue pursuing my passion.

My unique storytelling is inspired by the dance between architecture and the streets, where buildings shape our cities and whisper their own stories. I’m captivated by the interplay of lines, shadows, and forms that bring these structures to life, creating a silent dialogue with the world around them. Through my lens, I aim to unveil the hidden beauty in their design and the rhythm they weave into our everyday lives.

Minimalistic, evocative, and timeless.

Winning the Global Photography Awards is a tremendous honor for me. It represents a validation of my creative vision and dedication to capturing the world in a unique and evocative way. This distinction inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft and to explore new perspectives that resonate on a deeper level.

I am deeply grateful for this recognition, and it motivates me to keep growing as an artist and storyteller.

My winning entry, "Tales of the Architect," explores the deep connection between architecture and its creators’ visions. By isolating each building against a minimalist backdrop, I aimed to strip away distractions and allow the flowing lines, bold curves, and intricate details to take center stage.

This project was entered because I believe it transforms these structures into timeless works of art, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the stories and emotions embedded in our urban environments.

Winning this award has been a significant milestone at the beginning of my career, especially as it’s my first attempt at creating award-winning work. This recognition has validated my artistic vision and opened up opportunities to expand my network within the photography community.

I hope it will attract the attention of gallery curators and others who can help share my photography through exhibitions. It’s a step towards reaching new audiences and growing as an artist.

Andreas Feininger, Wolf von dem Bussche, and Otto Steinert.

The best advice I’ve been given is to always look behind me when deciding to take a photo. We often focus solely on what’s in front of us, but turning around can reveal a different perspective on the scene—one that might offer a new way of seeing and interpreting the moment.

Also, I always pay attention to the borders of my viewfinder, ensuring I capture exactly what I want in the photo while intentionally leaving out what doesn’t belong and practice, practice, and practice.

For anyone looking to become a photographer today, my advice would be to stay curious and experiment with different styles and subjects to discover what truly inspires you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are essential to learning and growing. Focus on developing your own unique perspective and storytelling style, but don't dwell too much on it—keep it natural and intuitive, and eventually, it will find you.

Also, remember to look beyond the obvious—explore different angles, perspectives, and compositions. Lastly, immerse yourself in the photography community, learn from others, and stay committed to constantly refining your craft. Go out and take photos, it's the best way to learn!

My key to success is a relentless pursuit of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning. Embracing experimentation and learning from mistakes has been essential in my growth. It is often that I revisit the same spots to take the same photographs over and over again, whenever possible, and try a different approach every time.

Staying true to my vision while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives drives me forward. For me, success is not just about the end result but about the journey and the resilience built along the way.

I actively seek out diverse sources of inspiration and stay curious about emerging trends and ideas. I make it a habit to engage with various forms of media, attend workshops, and connect with other creatives. I also maintain a mindset of openness and humility, recognizing that there’s always more to learn and that every experience can offer valuable insights.