Yevhen Kostiuk

Title: P.O.O.L.S. – Photography of Overhead Liner’s Symmetry

About the Photos:

The P.O.O.L.S. project offers a chance to see cruise ships from an entirely unexpected angle. When people think of cruises, they usually picture colorful brochures filled with smiling passengers, champagne glasses, and endless ocean views. But have you ever imagined what these massive vessels look like from a bird’s-eye view? P.O.O.L.S., Photography of Overhead Liner’s Symmetry, provides exactly that perspective—looking straight down, revealing the symmetry and geometry of cruise ships. Each shot in the project focuses on the bow, where a small pool (or sometimes several) is always present. Whether round or square, these pools inevitably become a striking visual accent, drawing the viewer’s eye. They are not meant for active swimming but rather offer passengers a secluded and relaxing retreat. People are not always present in the frames, but when they are, they immediately add scale and depth to the composition. Without them, the deck appears vast, almost infinite. But the moment a couple of passengers appear, the image transforms from a geometric abstraction into a living, breathing space. Why the bow of the ship? The answer is simple—it’s beautiful! The ship’s bow is an architectural masterpiece where every line and detail is carefully designed and executed with engineering precision. It’s not just the front of the vessel—it’s its signature, setting the tone and style for the entire ship. Details play a crucial role in P.O.O.L.S. photographs. In one image, you might see a perfectly maintained green deck surface with structures reminiscent of a playground. In another, precise yellow markings clearly define the ship’s operational zones. In yet another, passengers relax beside a tiny jacuzzi. The project is filled with unexpected highlights—whether it’s minimalist architectural forms, the interplay of light and shadow, or quirky little elements that often go unnoticed. The core idea behind P.O.O.L.S. is to showcase cruise ships in a way rarely seen by ordinary travelers. No commercial retouching, no cliché sunset shots from the stern—just pure lines, symmetry, and hidden surprises waiting to be discovered. Can this project be considered an exploration of cruise ship architecture? Possibly. Is it a form of art? Undoubtedly. But above all, P.O.O.L.S. is an invitation to see familiar things from a new perspective—quite literally. So, if you ever find yourself standing at the bow of a cruise ship, close your eyes and try to imagine how it looks from above. Who knows? That breathtaking view might just be the next addition to the P.O.O.L.S. collection.