In her portrait series, Balaton, the Hungarian Sea, Zsófi Pályi wanted to record the unique East European vibe in which the post-systems change modernization and the remnants of the Socialist era are present simultaneously. According to the young photographer, the charm of Lake Balaton lies in this duality of past and present.

Zsófi Pályi's Balaton portrait series, Balaton, the Hungarian Sea has been included among the 38 finalists of LensCulture - the contest's facebook page announced yesterday. This is a huge recognition for the young Hungarian pphotographer, since the 10-year-old LensCulture is one of the most prestigious contemporary photography networks. The professional jury chooses the most inventive approaches every year, from documentary art, through fashion photography to art photos.

This year, entries arrived from 130 countries: LensCulture selected and published the best 38.

Zsófi Pályi photographed people of various ages at the same spot of Lake Balaton, with infinite waters and skies in the background. Some subjects stand, one of them does a handstand with only legs sticking out of the water, while an old man is portrayed floating with a plastic purse typical of the 1980ies hanging from his neck.