Two women in elaborate costume evoke the mystique of modern voodoo during a street festival. With faces painted in striking white, towering headdresses, and beaded adornments, they trade talismans for sincere wishes in a ritual-inspired performance. The photograph captures a moment rich in cultural symbolism and artistic expression.

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