For many years, I have known Master Lee as one of the most respected figures in the world of Taekwon-Do. An accomplished 8th Degree ITF Black Belt, she has dedicated her life to the martial art as a master, international umpire, and mentor.
Years ago, I photographed her in a series that celebrated her identity as a Taekwon-Do practitioner. This time, however, we wanted to tell a different story.
We chose to leave the uniform behind.
Away from the dojang, Master Lee reveals a personality that few people have the opportunity to see. Beneath her calm and disciplined appearance is someone warm, thoughtful, approachable, and quietly confident.
Instead of emphasising elegance, we deliberately explored a mood that felt masculine, understated, and slightly rebellious. Using natural light and a single off-camera light inside an almost deserted building, we created an atmosphere of solitude and quiet strength. The monochromatic treatment further stripped away distractions, allowing expression, character, and emotion to become the focus.
What I appreciate most about this series is not simply the photographs themselves, but the honesty in Master Lee’s expressions. Beyond the uniform is not another version of who she is—it is simply another side of the same person.
