At first glance, you might think this photo features Hong Kong or Tokyo rather than South Africa.
But in fact, that is not the case: inspired by East Asian cinema, South African-based photographer Elsa Bleda has turned her artistic eye to the urban nightlife of cities like Johannesburg and Durban.
Bleda spoke to Hunger Magazine, offering some insight into her aesthetic tastes. In cinema, her favorite directors include Wong Kar-wai, Kim Ki-duk, and Park Chan-wook, as well as western directors like Ridley Scott and David Lynch. She even says ‘Blade Runner’ is her favorite film, and it’s not hard to see some of that neon-infused, cyberpunk style in her photography.
Take a look at a few of her photos below:
If you’re interested in more, you can find Bleda on Instagram and Facebook.
For another perspective on South Africa, check out these shots that show how the rich and poor are separated.
