A self-confessed storytelling enthusiast with a knack for capturing the vulnerability of the human spirit, Joel Pratley’s images carry a disarming honesty, which engages and emotes the observer. Born and raised in the Illawarra against the backdrop of social housing and raised by a single mum, Pratley discovered photography as an instrument to give voice to himself and others on the fringes of society. A passionate humanitarian, his portraits radiate empathy and compassion for people from all walks, particularly those so often ignored, misunderstood or deflected in life.
In 2021 he won the National Photographic Portrait prize with his image 'Drought Story'. He has also been nominated numerous times in previous years for other various photography contests including Head On Photo Festival, Moran Contemporary Photographic Prize, Australian Life Photography Prize and the National Photographic Portrait Prize. With this growing list of accolades, Pratley’s career is just getting started and his unassuming nature combined with a strong morale compass and a determined work ethic, he is not only on a sure path to further recognition but to also enriching the lives of both his audiences and subjects.