Last year's photography finds are going to be a little bit different (for one, because Ash is not on this list (despite doing some amazing work). I've realised that this year, the majority of the work that moved me or caused me to stop in my tracks this year has been done by women, so I'd like to dedicate this year's edition to all the women out there hustling in what has annoyingly traditionally been perceived as men's industry.

My favourite photographer of the year this year: Hannah Reyes Morales

Ever since the whale-shark feature (2020 I think), I've been following their work closely, and what stood out to me this year is the air of confidence they seem to invoke with their subjects. They continue finding these incredibly intimate moments, regardless of if they are with mothers and daughters, or in the sea amongst turtles. Seeing her grow into a rising star has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.

My favourite project/story of the year: Rena Efendi's butterflies.

This was such a surprisingly beautiful story, and I'm beyond happy that Ms Effendi got the opportunity and support to pursue it.

I love her work. In every capacity: from the intimacy of her images and a unique point of view to the fact that she still shoots with film (and with what is quickly becoming my favourite camera).

My favourite new find (overall): Newsha Tavakolian

In retrospect, I had to be living under a rock for the past few years as I've only found Tavakolian's work through an exhibition in the Armani museum in Milan this year. I'm in love with their muted colours, subtle compositions and almost monochromatic, gentle feel to their images. If anything, I think their series of portraits of Persian women is especially important today.

My favourite new find (through instagram): Sim Chiyin

I stumbled upon their work relatively randomly and loved the feeling I got from it. The fact that they are a mother, have a PhD, and manage to create such incredible work give me hope for my future.

My favourite new find (through youtube): Xiaoxing Han

Not only are they a great photographer also an incredible filmmaker.
They were featured in GXACE’s excellent video about the Rolleiflex.

Other mentions

• Reinforcing my belief that she's one of the world's leading photojournalists, Anastasia Taylor-Lind continues to produce jaw-drapping imagerly from Ukraine (and have been following the conflict since 2014). The exhibition in London in mighty impressive.

• Maria Mandic's projects hit close to home. They quickly became my favourite local photographer

• This past year, I’ve really enjoyed Ekaterina Mishchenkova's surreal imagery

And finally, I’d like to highlight some of my friends who had some major wins this past year:

• KC had her first (out of many to come) feature in the NYT, and continues to produce stunning work.

• While Ale became the cyclist photographer extraordinare (and is now a staff Rouler photographer!!!), I like her personal work perhaps even more than I like her commercial work.