Debbie Zimelman is an award-winning photographer living in Modiin, Israel. She specializes in documenting the lives of women in Israel, which is best exemplified by “Women in Prison,” a long-term project depicting life among inmates at Neve Tirtzah, Israel’s only all-female prison.

Debbie’s photographs have been exhibited and published in newspapers and magazines worldwide. She has received several international awards for her work. Her photo essay “Suited for Action: Israel's Women Ready for Combat,” received First Place in the Simon Rockower Awards for Excellence in Photography in the USA.

An active photographer since the age of 16, Debbie thrives on photographing people, using the camera to gain access to new places and to experience new worlds. Debbie’s life mission is to use the camera to share her vision of the world with others.

Debbie completed her studies at Hadassah College’s Photography Department in 1995, specializing in Documentary Photography.

In addition to working as a freelance photographer for over 25 years, she has had the opportunity to share her love of photography by teaching others, including teenagers and women prisoners.

Debbie continuously participates in workshops in Israel and abroad to continue learning and growing in the field.

“Women on the Front Lines,” Debbie’s first photography book, is another milestone in her professional career. It is the first and only book depicting the experience of Israeli female combat soldiers, offering an authentic glimpse into the growing trend of women volunteering for IDF combat positions. The coffee-table book, which also includes quotes from many of her subjects, has attracted much interest in Israel and abroad. To date she has spoken about her book in over 40 talks, in Japan, Hong Kong, Israel and the USA, as well as on Zoom.

“Women on the Front Lines” is currently available for purchase on Amazon and Debbie’s website.

When not taking pictures, Debbie can usually be found riding a mountain bike, walking her dog, or spending time with her husband and two sons.