About Aga

Aga Szydlik is a highly accomplished independent photographer. Her work is focused on cultural and documentary photography. She is passionate about exploring the world and the societies she documents, concentrating on lesser-known and endangered cultures and their heritage. 

Aga uses her photography not only to understand and document the rich cultural heritage of various tribes and their rituals but also to explore the fascinating intersection of these traditions with modern and traditional knowledge.

Her images have now been shown in curated exhibitions and have won numerous awards, including reFocus Awards(2023), Pollux (2020), Julia Margaret Cameron Award (2019 and 2020), Monovision Award (2022), Dodho(217), and IPA (2015). A comprehensive list of publications, exhibitions, and awards can be found here.

Aga began her professional career while living in Thailand as a fight photographer, where she developed a passion for Muay Thai. Later, she relocated to Indonesia and South Africa, expanding her career as a scientist and photographer. Aga’s work with different NGOs and as an independent contributor is not just about capturing the essence of the people she photographs but also about actively supporting human rights movements and conservation efforts.

Aga currently resides in the USA and divides her time between science and photography. When she is not traveling, she practices yoga and appreciates a slower pace of life.