Tariq Zaidi

Tariq Zaidi, a London-based photographer, transitioned his career in 2014 to pursue his passion for capturing the dignity, strength, and soul of people in their environments. His work focuses on critical social issues, systemic inequalities, cultural traditions, and marginalized communities worldwide.
Zaidi gained recognition in 2020 for his debut book, Sapeurs: Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo, which was a finalist for the Lucie Photo Book Award, Photography Book of the Year by Pictures of the Year International (POYi), and African Photobook of the Year. Vogue named it one of the Best Fashion Books of the Year, and it was showcased at the Visa pour l’Image International Festival of Photojournalism.
In 2021, Zaidi released his second book, Sin Salida, which explored human rights issues in El Salvador. This work earned him top honors at the 2020 Media Awards by Amnesty International and the International Photography Awards (IPA) in 2022. The book was also a finalist for the Lucie Photo Book Prize and POYi's 'Photography Book of the Year' in 2023.
Zaidi's third book, North Korea: The People’s Paradise, published in 2023, was featured in the New York Times Book Review and was named a NYTimes Editor’s Choice. The first edition sold out, with a second printing scheduled for August 2024. This book offers a nuanced view of North Korea, challenging stereotypes. Zaidi's three years of research illuminate the everyday lives of North Koreans, inviting readers to form informed perspectives.
His photography has been featured in numerous publications across 90 countries, including The Guardian, BBC, The New York Times, National Geographic, CNN, Washington Post, Newsweek, Der Spiegel, GQ, Marie Claire, and Vogue. With over 70 international awards, including honours from the Sony World Photography Awards, Pictures of the Year International and the National Press Photographers Association’s (NPPA) Best of Photojournalism Awards, his work has been exhibited in more than 90 international exhibitions, spanning projects in 25 countries across four continents.
Tariq Zaidi is a self-taught photographer with an M.Sc. degree from University College London. His work can be explored on Instagram (@tariqzaidiphoto), Facebook (@tariqzaidiphotography), and his website www.tariqzaidi.com.