Two women share a kiss whilst openly smoking in public. Females smoking in public is banned in Iran.

Iran has been a place of mystery for many years now with Westerners, with relations often standing on an icy precipice with its neighbours. This is what makes Iranian photographer Hossein Fatemi’s photo documentation of the secret lives of many Iranians so special. Giving us a glimpse of the alternative Iran, one not covered by the foreign or domestic media and hiding underneath one of the world’s most infamous dictatorships.

Fatemi says there is a ‘semi-hidden part of the country’ behind closed doors, something which he clearly aimed to bring to the fore in this project. That is not to say his mission was not without challenges, taking the photographer months to gain access to some of these facilities, with subjects often cancelling appointments for fear of losing their jobs or from retribution elsewhere. Pushing the boundaries of what is socially acceptable in Iran and exploring the lives of those who challenge the current status quo, ‘An Iranian Journey’ by Hossein Fatemi makes for both fascinating and informative viewing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND IMAGES, PLEASE VISIT HOSSEIN FATEMI’S WEBSITE >>>

A secret Rock gig in session. Rock music is illegal in Iran.

An all female beauty and hair salon in Tehran. Men are strictly forbidden.

Women work out in an all female gym.

These two ladies drink and dance at a private party.

A man relaxes with his dog in the privacy of his own home. Dogs are considered unclean and so are usually kept indoors by their owners.

A local artist enjoys a drink and a smoke indoors.