In Pictures

At the top of their game

Phil Coomes Picture editor
  • 14 May 2014
Anastasia Beauty Competition Image copyright Rafal Milach

Photographer Rafal Milach's latest work is a delightful collection of pictures that depict winners of various state and local competitions in Belarus.

His portraits capture a wide range of those at the top of their game, though the categories are free ranging, including:

  • the best couple in love
  • the best Jennifer Lopez lookalike
  • the most beautiful staircase
  • the best milkmaid of the Slutsk region

The work is naturally enough entitled Winners and is part of Milach's ongoing work examining propaganda in post-Soviet bloc countries.

Each portrait is a delight, framed to perfection, with the background details telling the story as much as the sitter themselves.

Milach's pictures have gained international recognition, including a World Press Photo award as well as being shown in solo exhibitions from Poland to China.

Here are a few from the series for you to enjoy.

Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Marina, Miss Belarusian Railway in Brest region, Minsk
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Stas and Vlad, award-winning twins
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Arri, the multi-champion in dog beauty contests
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Sasha, the best welder of the Republic of Belarus
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Olga, the mother of the best large family of Smorgon
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Natalya and Konan, the best couple in love. The contest is organised by local structures of BRSM (Belorussian Youth Association).
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Ania, fitness Queen
Image copyright Rafal Milach
Image caption Elena, the best milkmaid of the Slutsk region. Personal best: 1,160 litres (255 gallons) of milk per month.

All photographs by Rafal Milach, courtesy Institute. Winners is published by GOST books.

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