In clouds of smoke - World of smokers

Not so long ago, beautiful models with mouthpieces and smoking cigarettes looked languidly at people from glamorous pictures. A lady with a cigarette was a sign of advanced emancipation and courage, they wanted to be like her, they imitated her. However, such glamor quickly peeled off and gradually those who continue to smoke in front of everyone are beginning to be looked at as outcasts.

Photographer Laura Noel has always been drawn to individuality, the search for people who are not afraid to go against the grain. In late 2005, after launching a sweeping campaign to ban smoking in restaurants, bars and other public places in her native Atlanta, she realized that this was a societal issue that needed to be focused on.

(Total 12 photos)

1. “I was wondering how people felt ready to continue smoking in the face of society, in fact, causing public condemnation,” Noel said. "I'm not advocating them, since I don't smoke myself, but I've been intrigued by people willing to do something that most people find not only harmful but disgusting."

2. Tina smokes in her bedroom, 2007

3. Mickey smokes on the porch, 2006

4. Barry smokes, 2010

5. Brittany smokes in her bathroom, 2007

Initially, Noel took portraits of smokers when they were busy with other work. But gradually she shifted focus after she began to notice the psychological aspect. Noel said she was interested in how smokers look wiser and more contemplative when they smoke.

6. Asia smokes after work, 2012

In order to film a smoker in a natural setting, Noel spends with him from 10 minutes to several hours.

7. Julie smokes on her patio, 2006

8. The smoker wished to remain anonymous, 2006

Noel said she was surprised by the number of people who turned down her request to be photographed for a photo series. “I thought all my friends would line up for the shoot and I was really surprised that people who smoke don't really want to be known as smokers,” she recalls.

9 John smoking in his barn, 2010

10 Steven smoking in his car, 2005

11. Amy smokes in her backyard, 2005

12. Patty smokes in her living room, 2012