TITLE: Jobstoppers

Ever since I picked up a camera, I've been fascinated by the stories it can capture. This fascination turned into a full-blown project in 2019 with "Jobstoppers." Drawing its inspiration from the captivating, serene early 20th-century portraits of tribesmen and Native Americans, this project delves into the world of individuals who have chosen face tattoos. These tattoos, often labeled as 'Jobstoppers' due to their impact on employment opportunities, lend the project its name and its edge.

My first self-published book, "Jobstoppers: A Collection of Face Tattoo Portraits vol. 1" is a central piece of this endeavor. It showcases a selection of 25 out of the over 100 remarkable individuals I've photographed, each with their own story etched into their skin.

The portraits, often characterized by a neutral and unemotional expression, create a sense of enduring strength. This style is enhanced by my use of a simple portable flash studio setup, which places the emphasis firmly on the subjects and their intricate tattoos against a minimal, black background.

"Jobstoppers" is more than a photography project; it's a challenge to societal norms and a conversation starter about biases associated with face tattoos. It's about capturing the boldness and individuality of each subject, and about challenging viewers to rethink their preconceptions. This project is a source of pride for me, not only because it brings these unique individuals into the spotlight but also because it creates powerful, lasting images that reflect the enduring influence of the historical portraits that have inspired me.

AUTHOR: Joakim Steyls (Belgium)