I’m incredibly excited to share another piece of my photographic work that has found its home on a compelling book cover! My image is now featured on the Portuguese edition of Jess Lourey’s gripping thriller, “Raptadas.” Seeing my art contribute to the atmosphere of such an intense story is always a profound experience.

For this particular cover, I delved deep into a concept designed to evoke raw emotion and a chilling sense of discovery. The subject of the photograph is my youngest daughter, but transformed through a creative process meant to convey vulnerability and a haunting narrative. We quite literally went into the dirt for this shoot, with her lying amidst the earth, creating a visceral connection to themes of being hidden or buried.

To add an additional layer of intrigue and texture, I incorporated a glass plate over the lens while shooting. This technique allowed me to introduce subtle distortions and reflections, enhancing the gritty, almost dreamlike quality of the image. My intention was clear: to create an eerie, distressed visual that speaks of secrets, of something lost and then, perhaps, unearthed.

What makes this particular cover incredibly rewarding is the perfect alignment between my artistic vision and the book’s narrative. When I created this image, I had a very specific story in mind—one of discovery, of hidden truths, and of a raw, almost primal connection to the earth. The book’s description of “Duas meninas desaparecidas. Uma mulher enterrada viva. Décadas de segredos por desenterrar.” (“Two missing girls. A woman buried alive. Decades of secrets to unearth.”) perfectly resonates with the exact mood and message I aimed to convey. It’s truly thrilling when publishers see and embrace the core intention behind your art.

Once again, this opportunity came through my wonderful agency, Trevillion Images, in London. Their expertise in connecting powerful imagery with the right stories is invaluable, and I’m consistently grateful for their partnership.

I’m immensely proud of how this photograph contributes to the chilling atmosphere of “Raptadas.” I hope it draws readers in and sets the perfect tone for Jess Lourey’s captivating thriller. Do look out for “Raptadas” and let me know what you think of the cover!