About my work
I am a Norwegian photographer based in Washington, DC. I specialize in development photography and visual story-telling, helping international organizations, aid agencies, NGOs and foundations communicate about development issues through photography.
I offer a full range of photographic and multimedia services to help clients tell stories about their organization, their mission and the impact of their work. Multimedia stories typically use photography, video, audio and graphics, integrated seamlessly in one compelling narrative.
As the World Bank's principal documentary photographer for Africa since 2004, I have covered a wide range of development issues on the African continent as well as in other regions. Besides capturing the challenges facing the developing world, I also highlight progress and growth on the continent. I try to show how ordinary people’s lives have been improved through investments in health, education and infrastructure. I also try to convey optimism and hope, and the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of abject poverty.
In my work, I straddle the traditions of classic documentary photography and photography that owes its legacy to the fine art tradition. I believe a symbolic and evocative image can be as visually arresting as one that is overtly dramatic, illustrative or action-filled. I believe in the subtle and understated, and the need for an image to speak to hearts and as well as the minds of the audience.
I am also available for other (non-development) assignment work. My online editorial portfolio contains samples of an extensive body of travel photography from more than 30 countries. It also covers other themes, such as architecture, automotive and portraits.
Please contact me for further information about travel schedules, pricing, etc.
Arne Hoel
703-505-1374
arne@arnehoel.com