The LensCulture Portrait Awards 2022 highlights a diverse range of powerful and evocative photographic works. Ashkan Shabani's series 'Eshgh, Tars, Azadi' is celebrated for its narrative strength and emotional depth. Geert Broertjes and Lotte Bronsgeest's 'Outside Room 8' is noted for its innovative use of medium to convey the harsh realities of chemotherapy. Loek Buter's portraits of Maxy Niedermeyer and her bear Natascha explore themes of nature, nostalgia, and compassion. Matt Davis captures a charming moment of school children in the UK, while Teddy's work delves into identity and vulnerability through cosplay. Ursula's 'Multiples' stands out for its depth achieved through double exposure, and Luana Șeu's intimate portrait of paternal love resonates deeply. Sophia Spring's formal portraits in London parks evoke a post-pandemic need for retreat and familiarity.

Mozhgan Eftekhari, mother of Mahsa Amini, whose death in police custody sparked mass protests in Iran, has called the country's election pointless. Millions are expected to boycott the election to show discontent with the Islamic regime. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians to vote, but many citizens, disillusioned with the regime, plan to abstain as a message of rejection. Turnout in Tehran is expected to be significantly lower than previous elections. The US Department of State expressed skepticism about the elections being free and fair.