Matej Peljhan Slovenian photographer Country: Slovenia

1. The Power of Photography
2. Cinematic Magic
3. Luka's Inspiration
4. A Different Perspective
5. Healing Through Imagination

A Gift of Imagination: Photographer Matej Peljhan's 'Little Prince' Series

Luka, a 12-year-old boy with muscular dystrophy, has faced limitations that would make most of his peers despair. Yet, despite his inability to move freely, Luka's imagination knows no bounds.

The Power of Photography

Slovenian photographer Matej Peljhan recognized Luka's plight and sought to provide him with a unique form of nourishment for his imagination. Peljhan embarked on a photo shoot for Luka, not to simply capture his likeness, but to immortalize the activities he could only dream of.

Cinematic Magic

Through clever use of cinematographic techniques, Peljhan created eight images that depict Luka doing everything from walking down stairs to playing basketball and breakdancing. These photographs became part of the poignant "Little Prince" series.

Luka's Inspiration

The idea for the photo shoot came from Luka himself, who longed for a photograph where he could lead a normal existence. Peljhan initially considered using photo editing, but the results proved unsatisfactory.

A Different Perspective

Instead, Peljhan took a more unconventional approach. By positioning Luka on a brightly colored floor and using a bird's-eye view, he created the illusion that Luka was actually walking down a street.

Healing Through Imagination

For Luka, these photographs transcended mere depictions of a fantasy. They became portals to a world where his limitations melted away and he found solace in his own boundless imagination. By providing Luka with this gift of imagination, Peljhan helped him escape the confines of his condition, if only momentarily.