Photographer turns models into amazing optical illusions using only make-up and props

Moscow-based photographer Alexander Khokhlov and makeup artist Veronica Ershova are known for some brilliant optical illusions. They have recently published their latest project titled Humiforms, which turns models into familiar objects using only makeup and simple props. Thanks to Veronica’s marvelous makeup and Alexander’s photography skills, the illusions were made entirely in-camera, and the final black and white images are truly striking.

When I first saw the project, my eyes were instantly drawn to these minimalistic, yet extraordinary images. I reached out to Alexander to ask him if all these illusions were created in-camera – and the answer is yes.

For each of the photos, the artists had a concept in mind. Veronica did an amazing job as a makeup artist, and most of the photos were supplemented with a couple of accessories as well. What I like about these accessories is that they are rather simple: balloons, balls, chains, or props made out of paper. After Alexander took the photos, there was some retouching job, of course – but only to make the images flawless. The illusions you see are all the result of the clever combination of makeup, props, and right angles. As Alexander explains, it would take between two and six hours to create each photo.

Alexander explains that he and Veronica turned to their favorite subject of visual transformations to create unusual portraits, from the layering of familiar objects.

In Humiforms, we explore the personality and its inner world, revealing through the images diverse qualities and conditions of humanity. Internal contradictions and harmony, a passion for excitement and excessive conservatism, a thirst for freedom and selective attention — these are some of the themes that emerge in the Humiforms series.

I now leave you to enjoy more of the stunning images Alexander and Veronica created for this project. If you would like to see more of their work, I suggest you visit Alexander’s website, where you can see more of their impressive collaborative projects. Also, visit Alexander’s Instagram, Behance and Facebook page, and Veronica’s Behance profile.