Paula Hornickel (*1998, Cottbus) is a portrait and documentary photographer working at the intersection of visual storytelling. Her practice explores sociocultural dynamics, questions of identity and perspectives on the future. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication at the University of the Arts Berlin (UdK) and spent a semester abroad at the Pratt Institute in New York City. She is currently pursuing a dual Master’s degree in Photographic Studies at FH Dortmund and Visual Communication in the Campaigns class at UdK Berlin. Her work has been published in media outlets including The Guardian, Society and Süddeutsche Zeitung. She received the World Press Photo Award 2026 in the Singles – Europe category.