“’Emergence’ is more than a photographic body of work, I intend for it to be a meditative, safe and healing space for Muslims to feel affirmed in their existence, experiences and feelings,” says American-Pakistani photographer Simrah Farrukh. “While working with the beauty of nature, these images take place in locations that symbolise the idea that wherever we are, our faith is grounded within us and is something that cannot be shaken out of us.”

Shot across California at Vasquez Rocks in Los Angeles and Mt Diablo in the Bay Area, this beautiful project is just beginning but from its infancy, in every respect, it’s been incredibly intentional. From casting and location to the way the structure of the shoot day itself, faith and care is woven throughout to create a poetic yet powerful series of images. “I wanted to ensure that I was inclusive to a broader range of Muslims – both in sect and ethnicity. The session started with a grounding exercise and discussion, and ended with a prayer stating our intentions and our hopes for the future of the Muslim community. I asked my friend and incredible writer, Sumeera to read aloud a dua.”