This vibrant photograph captures the theatrical arrival of La Fantasmaqueen, a towering puppet clad in richly adorned, traditional Romani-style garments. Her dramatic presence is amplified by the colorful costuming of her youthful attendants, who engage the crowd with playful antics. The scene teems with festivity and folklore, inviting viewers into a world of fantasy and spectacle. Hidden beneath her voluminous skirt lies a magical box, promising wonder and surprise for those curious enough to peek inside.

Photographed at the 2014 Zinneke Parade event in Brussels, Belgium. The image was retouched and a blended texture was added to achieve a painterly effect. (May 2014)

• My other portraits and scenes from the Zinneke Parade