A few years ago, I met a man named Adam Smith at Photolucida in Portland and he introduced me to his project on ultimate fighting. What struck me the most was how Smith's photographic project humanized and individualized those involved in a subculture that is often vilified. A few years later, I discovered Francesca Yorke's work on ultimate fighting and I have been considering the projects similarities and differences. Like Smith, Yorke developed a fondness for many of her subjects as she emersed herself in the project. Neither project capitalizes on the sensationalism of the sport nor do they sacrifice aesthetics, vulnerability and beauty that they found in and out of the cage.

Both artists are equally well-seen on the topic. I wanted to featured them both, but allow both their words and images to speak about the work. The subject is similar, but there are many differences in the photographers and the projects. In this issue of Finite, I contast the work of two artists who documented this sport, one a woman shooting in black & white and working in the United Kingdom and a man photographing in color in the United States.

View the Adam Smith's interview and portfolio.

View the Francesca Yorke's interview and portfolio.

From Adam Smith's Fight Journal	From Francesca Yorke's Fight