First, some numerical and Gamma-convergence results will be presented for an adaptation of Francfort-Marigo's free-discontinuity model for fracture to the case of large strains. The aim is to show the potential of the approach for the study of the initiation of cracks by void coalescence. In the second part of the talk, a rigorous analysis of the distribution of voids before the nucleation of cracks will be presented. This analysis suggests that the size of the void opened at a microscopic fracture site is proportional to the distance (in the rest state) to the nearest neighbour fracture.