Kenneth Bamberg

I photographed my first cock in 2009 in the Philippines where cock fighting is a national sport. In Finland, taking portraits of cocks is something I often still enjoy doing. I try to get behind its tough mask of arrogance. I want to show something of what I experience is part of a cock’s personality. I am fascinated by the cock’s decorative and protective charisma to attract females and steer clear of other cocks.
When a cock poses proudly, almost superiorly, and glances down at me, I find myself in its pride seeing the contours of a nobleman, or royalty. I give the portrait of the cock a title, a name I think it deserves.
The temporary studio with its black wool background is built on farms and in backyards. The cock is lightning fast in his movements. I wait for the moment when the cock is still.