Zwischen Zweigen / Between Branches

To what extent does the profession of a female soldier in the German Armed Forces shape the development of young women's identities, and to what extent do femininity and individuality conflict with a military context—especially in today's world.

To what extent does serving as a female soldier in the German Armed Forces shape the personal and social identity of young women today? And how do femininity, individuality, and self-expression coexist—or conflict—with the rigid structures and expectations of military life?

This photography project explores the complex interplay between personal identity and institutional conformity within a traditionally male-dominated environment. In an era where empowerment, diversity, and authenticity are increasingly championed, young female soldiers navigate a unique tension: balancing the demands of discipline, obedience, and uniformity with their desire for self-definition, personal values, and gender expression.

Through portraits and staged still life, this series invites viewers to consider the nuanced realities behind the uniform. It captures moments of vulnerability, resistance and adaptation, highlighting how these women are shaped by the military system they have chosen to be part of.
This work raises questions about what it means to be a woman, a soldier, and an individual.

But what about personal ethics and moral beliefs? The profession of a soldier is not only physically and mentally demanding—it also carries with it profound political and ethical implications. For many, serving in the military means grappling with questions of violence, national interest, and obedience to authority. What does it mean to defend a system, a state, or a cause that may not fully reflect one’s own values? This internal conflict—between duty and doubt, between institutional loyalty and personal conviction—is a central theme in the lives of many female soldiers.