Photographer Paolo Manca, contributor to Edge of Humanity Magazine, presents the photo essay Smartphone stories. The series examines the role of smartphones in daily life and the dependence that has developed around them. Manca highlights how the device has become both a unifying and dividing force, assisting in work, entertainment, and communication, while also consuming significant amounts of time. The project, initiated in 2018, reflects on the gestures, postures, and experiences tied to smartphone use and abuse. The selected photographs were taken in various European cities, offering glimpses into how individuals interact with their devices in different contexts.
In his artist statement, Paolo Manca emphasizes exploration and versatility as central to his practice. He explains that this approach has shaped his photography, leading him to experiment with diverse styles and subjects. His focus remains on telling stories about people, whether through irony, curiosity, or observation of everyday behaviors. Smartphone stories aligns with this perspective, using visual storytelling to capture moments that reveal the complexities of contemporary reliance on technology.