Pavel Forest
Project Title
Pavel - Among Pines and Firelight – from series “Rooted Grace – Portraits in Nature”
In this striking session, Jonathan Schulman captures Pavel, a solitary figure immersed in the quiet rhythm of forest life. Surrounded by towering trees and the scent of pine and smoke, Pavel becomes a modern-day woodsman — splitting wood for a bonfire, cradled in a hammock, sipping coffee from a weather-worn mug. The forest, alive with muted greens and deep browns, offers a grounding backdrop for the vibrant hues of Pavel’s hiking gear and outfit — orange hammock, teal coloured hoodie and matching hat.
Behind
The Lens
This visual contrast between man-made and natural tones doesn’t clash — it harmonizes. Jonathan subtly explores the relationship between human innovation and the untouched wilderness, suggesting that modern life and ancient landscapes can coexist in calm balance. Pavel is not conquering nature — he is dwelling within it, respectfully, intuitively. There’s a ruggedness in his movements, a quiet resilience that speaks to a life shaped by the outdoors. Yet there is also softness in the stillness of his coffee break, a free soul at peace with solitude and simplicity.
Photo
Style
Through this lens, Schulman portrays masculinity not as dominance, but as presence: active, aware, and rooted.
Pavel Forest is a portrait of inner strength and harmony — an adventurer who finds freedom not in escape, but in connection.