1. Research a photo-book and describe the story it is communicating  with reference to subject-matter, genre and approach to image-making.

"Genesis" by Sebastião Salgado –

What is the book about? -

“Genesis” is a breath taking photographic journey by Sebastião Salgado that explores the last truly wild and untouched places on Earth. Over the course of eight years, Salgado travelled to remote regions across the globe, from the frozen landscapes of Antarctica to the dense jungles of the Amazon, the vast African deserts, and the towering peaks of the Himalayas. His black and white images capture the raw beauty of nature, untouched by modern civilization, as well as the indigenous communities and wildlife that live in perfect harmony with their environments.

This book is a visual celebration of Earth’s purest landscapes, where time seems to stand still. Salgado’s dramatic use of light and shadow brings out the depth, texture, and emotion in every scene, making even the simplest landscape feel powerful and alive. More than just a collection of stunning photographs, Genesis is a call to appreciate and protect the natural world before it disappears. Through his lens, Salgado reminds us that there are still places on this planet that remain as they were thousands of years ago, sacred, untouched, and awe-inspiring.

How does the book relate to the theme of 'UNION'? -

Sebastião Salgado’s Genesis perfectly connects to the theme of union in multiple ways, especially when looking at how nature, people, and light all come together in harmony.

One of the biggest ways Genesis reflects union is through its deep connection between humanity and nature. Salgado captures untouched landscapes and indigenous communities who live in perfect sync with their environment. These images show how humans and the Earth are not separate but part of a greater whole, existing together in a delicate balance. This idea of unity is especially powerful in today’s world, where modern society often feels disconnected from nature. His work reminds us that true harmony comes from respecting and preserving the natural world.

Another way Genesis ties into the theme of union is through the way he captures the merging of natural elements such as light meeting land, rivers weaving through mountains, and clouds blending into vast skies. His use of black and white photography enhances the contrast and connection between these elements, making them feel inseparable. Just like in a sunset where colours blend seamlessly, his images show how every part of the Earth is interconnected, forming one breath taking, unified landscape.

Overall, Genesis is about the unity of the past, present, and future. Its a reminder that these untouched places have existed for thousands of years and that it’s our responsibility to protect them. It’s a tribute to the way nature and people can exist in harmony, making it a perfect visual representation of union.