Abbie Trayler-smith

Abbie Trayler-Smith is a distinguished British documentary and portrait photographer renowned for her ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through her lens. Her work transcends mere documentation, capturing the intricate tapestry of human experience as she explores contemporary events and pressing social issues. With an innate talent for engaging with her subjects, Abbie reveals the profound narratives behind the ordinary—illuminating the anguish, humility, and extraordinary courage that characterize the lives she portrays. Hailing from Wales, Abbie's extensive travels have enriched her perspective and informed her artistry. Over the course of eight impactful years at The Daily Telegraph, she reported on significant global events, including the harrowing conflicts in Iraq and Darfur, as well as the devastating Asian tsunami. More recently, her lens has turned to environmental activism, chronicling vital efforts in the Antarctic and the Indian Ocean with Greenpeace. Abbie has also captured pivotal moments in the UK’s history, such as the Platinum Jubilee, the solemnity of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, and the grand Coronation of King Charles III. Abbie's exceptional work has earned her numerous prestigious accolades, including the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize (twice), the World Press Photo Award, and the Ideastap Magnum Photographic Awards. In a testament to her ongoing commitment to powerful storytelling, she published her monograph, ‘Kiss It!’, this year with GOST Books. This publication is a significant chapter in her personal project ‘The Big O’, which addresses the critical issue of childhood obesity. Abbie Trayler-Smith continues to push the boundaries of photography, inviting viewers to confront the human condition with empathy and understanding.