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Bronze 2023 People / Culture

Belgian Time Machine

  • Photographer
    Alain Schroeder
  • Prize
    Bronze in People / Culture

This series explores local processions and religious marches in Belgium, dating back 500 years. Some are famous, others are only known locally. Just 30 - 60 km away from Brussels, the center of the European Union and modern-day politics, these customs are a travel back in time, rich in history and tradition. The inclusion of some of the processions and all of the marches on UNESCO's list of Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity helps promote the preservation of this unique Belgian tradition for future generations.

Belgian photojournalist Alain Schroeder has been working in the industry for over four decades. First as a sports photographer in the 80s, then shooting books and editorial pieces in art and human stories. In 2013, he uprooted his life, trading-in his shares in Reporters, to pursue life on the road with a camera. He now travels the world shooting stories focusing on social issues and people. He has won many international awards including Nikon Japan, Nikon Belgium, TPOTY, Istanbul Photo, Days Japan, Trieste, PX3, IPA, MIFA, BIFA, PDN, the Fence, LensCulture, Siena, POYI and World Press.