Zarina Holmes

Portrait of a healer

Portrait: Dr Simon Raphael Picker, psychotherapist.
Location: London SW6, UK
Photographer: Zarina Holmes
Assistant photographer: Salina Christmas

In his Psychology Today bio, Dr Picker “integrates Jungian and psychoanalytic traditions, focusing on unconscious dynamics, childhood experiences, dreams, and collective influences, societal and historical.” This deeply resonated with me, and I aimed to reflect his wisdom and patience in the photographs.

I chose an early morning session to utilise the “apricity light,” a warm winter sunlight that perfectly complemented his persona. It was a delightful surprise to discover his middle name is Raphael, much like the Italian artist. This inspired a wonderful pose, and for props, I asked him to bring his favourite books, adding a classical touch with red English apples. Dr. Picker humorously noted, “Ah, apples! The symbol of discord in Greek mythology,” which made me feel, as the observer, truly observed by an expert.

For props, I asked him to bring his favourite books, adding a classical touch with red English apples.

I chose an early morning session to utilise the “apricity light,” a warm winter sunlight that perfectly complemented his persona.

The books he selected were particularly insightful, as they greatly influenced his life and profession. For the apples, I chose them to symbolize wisdom, captured in the muted apricity sunlight to signify fresh hope—a nod to how psychotherapy illuminates dark corners, guiding individuals toward a path out.

My portraiture work often draws inspiration from classical Western paintings, reflecting both my cultural background and the timelessness of the art form. This approach also subtly references Dr Picker’s training at University College London, a renowned institution for social and medical sciences.

Some of the indoor shots were inspired by the “Whistler’s Mother” Revival painting, created in Chelsea, just two miles from our studio in Fulham. I aimed to capture the same muted English light found in that iconic piece. The outdoor shots have a fresh varsity feel, which suits the British academic personality of the sitter.

A memorable moment was Dr Picker arriving with colourful Adidas Samba sneakers and even more vibrant socks. He explained that he chose the socks to lighten the mood, as psychotherapy can be quite heavy for clients. It certainly worked, as they brought laughter to our session.

I always learn a great deal from my portrait sitters, who often possess remarkable intellect.

You can view more of my photography work at here.

All photos © Zarina Holmes Photography.