How My Identity Has Swayed My Career
I am a black female photographer . As much as I would like to believe that my work is all that matters, my identity is a part of me and my career. It matters more than one would think.
“As much as I would like to believe that my work is all that matters, my identity is a part of me and my career”
Why it matters
Photography is an art form that possesses the incredible power to capture and celebrate the unique beauty found in every individual. When it comes to photographing people with Black and African heritage, it is essential to approach it with a deep understanding and appreciation for the diverse range of skin tones, facial features, and cultural expressions that make up this rich and vibrant community. Many melanin rich individuals have experienced some form of colorism in the industry, from not being approached by photographers, to having unflattering photos taken of them. Photography is part art and part light science. Every aspect of photography from aperture to flashes requires a knowledge and deep understanding of light. Different skin tones absorb light in different ways. Everyone has a different skin tone that can be light or dark, warm or cool, and reflect light or absorb it. Photographers need to understand and consider skin tone because it affects the colors and overall feeling of a photo.Being able to capture and show a person's skin tone accurately can make a photo more emotional and real. A good photographer can work with different skin tones to make each person look their best and truest. An unfamiliar photographer can unintentionally leave a person of color looking “washed out.”
My Expertise
As an experienced photographer, I've learned a lot and improved my skills in order to accurately capture the beauty of Black people and people of color through my camera. I understand how lighting, composition, and posing specifically work for melanated skin, and my aim is to create photographs that truly capture the essence and spirit of everyone who steps in front of my lense. By using lighting to its fullest, I'm able to create captivating images that highlight the texture, depth, and radiance of melanated skin.
Representation and cultural awareness are crucial in accurately showing the variety of people within the Black community through photography. By acknowledging cultural factors and individual uniqueness, I aim to respect and safeguard their narratives.
As a photographer, my commitment to understanding and emphasizing the unique aspects of beauty goes beyond technical skills. It includes fostering an inclusive and respectful environment in which individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. By building trust and rapport with my subjects, I am able to capture photographs that genuinely reflect their essence, allowing their true selves to shine through my images.Understanding photography on Black and brown people requires more than technical proficiency. It requires empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to celebrating the beauty and diversity within this community. By combining technical expertise with a deep appreciation for the nuances of ethnic features and cultural expressions, I strive to create photographs that resonate with viewers on a profound level, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the beauty that lies within each person, regardless of their ethnicity.
