The Black Shutter Podcast is a series of conversations with Black photographers filmmakers, editors, and creative business folks. You will hear about their work, their challenges, and their inspirations revolving around photography. The Black Shutter Podcast is hosted by Idris Talib Solomon, a creative director, photographer, and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY.
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The Black Shutter Podcast is an incredible and inspiring podcast that highlights the work of black and brown photographers. The host, Idris, does a fantastic job of creating a space for these photographers to share their stories and perspectives beyond just their work. It's refreshing to listen to interviews that delve into not only the technical and business aspects of photography but also the social and cultural impact that these photographers have. Each episode offers a unique look at black photographic history and celebrates the contributions of black creatives.
One of the best aspects of The Black Shutter Podcast is its depth and authenticity. The interviews provide a perfect mix of technical knowledge, business insights, and personal experiences. It's fascinating to hear about each photographer's journey, their growth in the industry, and the projects they've worked on. The podcast goes beyond just showcasing their work; it allows listeners to connect with their stories on a deeper level. It's also commendable that the podcast features diverse voices within the black community, highlighting different perspectives and experiences.
Another great aspect is that this podcast fills a void in the podcasting world by providing a platform for black visual artists. While there are many shows that spotlight visual artists in general, this is one of the few podcasts that specifically focuses on black photographers. This representation is crucial as it brings attention to underrepresented voices and gives them a space to be heard. It's empowering to see black photographers being celebrated and recognized for their contributions.
In terms of drawbacks, there aren't many negatives about The Black Shutter Podcast. However, one possible improvement could be diversifying the range of photographers featured even further. While there have been numerous amazing guests so far, it would be great to see more inclusion of other ethnicities within the black community as well.
In conclusion, The Black Shutter Podcast is an exceptional podcast that provides invaluable insight into the world of black photography. It combines technical knowledge with personal narratives, offering a unique and meaningful listening experience. The podcast celebrates the achievements of black photographers, explores their stories, and brings attention to their important work. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in photography or wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the black photographic experience.
In this episode, he shows us how a camera becomes more than gear. It's protection. It's prophecy. It's a way to remember what the world works hard to forget and imagine what it's never dared to dream.He breaks down why chasing purpose over paper isn't optional. It's how you stay alive in a system built to drain you.Growing up between Florida, New York, and L.A. sharpened his third eye. Trained him to spot beauty in the overlooked. Power in the everyday.When he documented essential workers during the pandemic, it wasn't just storytelling. It was future-proofing. A way to contain truth for the ones still coming.Through his lens, Black fatherhood, Black labor, Black joy is documented. They're permanent. They're law.He speaks on legacy and ownership. On what it means to create work for the Black community. Not for applause, but for survival. For freedom.If you build, if you dream, if you speak through visual language, this convo is for you.Tap in. Lock in. Keep building.Check out his work at markclennon.com
In this episode of Black Shutter Podcast, we sit down with photographer Sianeh Kpukuyou (@AskPhotos) to explore the power of perspective, storytelling, and representation in photography. Sianeh shares her journey from discovering photography through a Canon 6D gift to tackling issues of colorism, identity, and societal beauty norms in her work. She breaks down the challenges of access to equipment in Ghana, how restrictions fuel creative innovation, and the importance of respectful engagement with people to create authentic moments. We also dive into her viral success, her approach to documenting everyday life in Ghana, and how her projects challenge stereotypes about African youth, beauty, and femininity. From nostalgic cultural symbols to thought-provoking fashion photography, Sianeh's work is a testament to the power of Black storytelling through the lens. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on art, culture, and the future of African photography. Follow Sianeh online: Portfolio Instagram
In this episode, Steve Jones, founder of Pocstock explores how leaders in the industry are pushing for authentic representation of marginalized communities. We discuss the crucial role of photographers of color, emphasizing the financial potential of licensing and the importance of model releases for sustained income. We address industry challenges, such as the resistance to diverse representation, while highlighting initiatives like Pocstock that champion inclusive imagery. The video also covers the impact of AI on media, stressing the need for ethical use, and underscores the importance of culturally sensitive consulting for brands aiming to move beyond stereotypes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
In Episode 86, we speak with Dominick Lewis, the mastermind behind Photodom—the first Black-owned camera shop in Brooklyn—as he breaks down how building community has been the key to his success. From day one, it wasn't just about selling cameras; it was about creating a space where film photographers could vibe, learn, and grow together. Dom talks about the power of support systems and how you can accomplish more when you move as a team. With his background in engineering and a passion for film photography, he's been able to build a business that's more than a store—it's a movement. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 85 where we speak with Los Angeles-based photo editor, Karen Williams. After graduating in 2008, Karen faced the harsh realities of the photo industry, struggling with low pay, extreme stress, and lack of career advancement. Burnout and instability were constant, leading her to found Black Visual Queen to combat industry injustices like racism and lack of diversity. Over 15 years, she worked with 14 companies and billion-dollar brands, turning her dream into a reality and now shares her knowledge and experiences with others. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
In this episode, Chester Higgins Jr. discusses his approach to harnessing the spirit within a photograph. He has photographed Muhammad Ali, Betty Shabazz, Gordon Parks, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, and many more prominent figures. His work is in the permanent collection of the MOMA. In 2022, he was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame museum. The wisdom in this conversation is invaluable. Chester Higgins Jr. can also be found online at: Instagram Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
About Ruddy: Radcliffe Roye is a Brooklyn based documentary photographer specializing in editorial and environmental portraits and photo-journalism photography. A photographer with over twelve years of experience, Radcliffe is inspired by the raw and gritty lives of grass-roots people, especially those of his homeland of Jamaica. Radcliffe strives to tell the stories of their victories and ills by bringing their voices to matte fibre paper. Recently, Radcliffe began experimenting with interpretative photography, preferring to allow the abstract content within the frame to dictate the voice and purpose of the image. His Elements series focuses on the bold, austere, graphic and emotionally raw imagery, that is trapped behind a diffused lens. With painterly abilities, Radcliffe uses this diffused methodology to subtly awaken the subconscious and expose the isolated figure or vision painted within a rhetorical frame. Ruddy can be found online at: PortfolioInstagram --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to episode 82 where we speak again with Kris Graves, a New York City-based photographer and publisher, who details his journey from gallerist to founding Monolith Editions, a Black-owned publishing house dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices. This episode is for any artists interested in publishing their work in book format. We hope this conversation is informative and points you in the right direction. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 81, where we speak with Brooklyn-based photo editor and producer, Tracey Woods about the work that happens to bring photoshoots to life. She shares the transition from magazine covers to digital transitions, industry insights, and ips for photographers to inject their personality into their images. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
View this episode on our YouTube channel Peace family. In this episode, we're taking you on a journey through the lens of Lawrence Agyei. As always, we focus on more than just the picture-making side of photography; it's about stories, culture, and the real essence of photography. Here are some of the show notes. Enjoy the episode. Dive into the Visual Chronicles: Lawrence Agyei fills us in on his background, inspirations, and how he crafts a vibe that makes people feel at home. He explores personal projects, from futuristic portraits with models to effortlessly capturing the family dynamic of friends. Behind the Scenes of: Lawrence's love for storytelling through vibrant colors and textures is the key ingredient. He walks us through photoshoots for Apple and Nike, where planning meets serendipity in capturing Chicago's essence. Real Talk on Photography: Lawrence reveals his roots, documenting friends, and why he's more than just a photographer—he's a storyteller. Uncover the beauty in simplicity as Lawrence shares tales of spontaneous shoots, like the one with a fashion model in a local park. Insights for Aspiring Photographers: The importance of pre-visualization takes center stage—learn from the masters, study like a pro. Embrace diversity, break industry norms, and capture the magic of different skin tones and backgrounds. Global Adventures in Photography: From Ghana to London, Lawrence's lens captures the soul of musicians, models, and friends in unique settings. Witness the challenges and triumphs, like the unforgettable shoot at a Ghanaian stadium, showcasing determination and vibrant energy. Film vs. Digital: Lawrence's Perspective: The richness of film, the trust it builds, and the stories it tells. Lawrence drops jewels on why film holds a special place in his heart. He shares insights on working with clients, building trust, and the significance of capturing genuine moments. Building Connections and Authenticity: Learn how Lawrence creates genuine moments through engagement, thought-provoking questions, and a deep understanding of the people he photographs. What is it like to photograph a celebrity? We dive into the process of creating an engaging portrait, like the one with artist Leon Bridges, where every element tells a story. Lawrence Agyei's Creative Universe: From Nike campaigns to personal projects, Lawrence's lens captures the spirit of each moment, making him an essential voice in the industry. Hear about unique photoshoots, like the one with a dark-skinned model in a cowboy hat against an empty gym backdrop. If you dig this episode, stay connected to Lawrence Agyei: Instagram Website Peace The Black Shutter Team --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 79 where we've created a live podcast episode with Brooklyn-based street photographer, Andre Wagner, at The International Center of Photography located in New York City. We speak with Andre about his ability to find human connections through street photography. Andre Wagner is a photographer and artist living and working in Brooklyn, NYC. He explores and chronicles the poetic and lyrical nuances of daily life, using the city—particularly his own neighborhood and community—as his subjects. His work and practice fit into the lineage of street photography that investigates the American social landscape, often focusing his lens on themes of race, class, and cultural identity. His work has been seen in The New York Times, the New Yorker, Time, Vogue, and several other publications. He also photographed the key art and campaign photography for Queen & Slim. Andre is the 2022 Gordon Parks fellow. Andre Wagner can be found online at: PortfolioInstagram --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 78 where we speak with Los Angeles-based editorial and portrait photographer, Phylicia J.L. Munn, about her strategies for photographing celebrities. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 77 where we speak with Los Angeles-based photojournalist and documentary photographer, Gabriella Angotti-Jones, about the nuances of navigating the photography world as a Black woman. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 76 where we speak with Brooklyn-based street and portrait photographer, Naeem Douglas, about his approach to photographing strangers on the street. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 75 where we speak with Washington DC-based portrait and editorial photographer, Adedayo Kosoko, about the power of your name and living up to your greatest potential.
If you've been interested in or currently practice film photography, this episode will inspire you to go purchase a bunch of rolls. We are definitely excited to dive back into the slow process of film after hearing Redeat Wondemu's process. Tune in to Episode 74 where we speak with Washington D.C.- based artist/photographer, Redeat Wondemu, about the process of documenting a Muse.
Brooklyn-based photographer, Clay Williams, considers himself a documentarian who focuses on the culture of food - the history, the chefs, the process, the meal itself, and the culture that brings all of these elements together. His culinary adventures have taken him on road trips through Argentina and South Louisiana. They have found him hanging off the back of food trucks from Paris to The Bronx. In 2019, he co-founded Black Food Folks, a platform for professionals working in food and food media. His client list includes The New York Times, Food & Wine, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and The James Beard Foundation.
Tune in to Episode 72 where we speak with Brooklyn-based commercial and editorial photographer, Jai Lennard, about the different childhood experiences that led him to his current path.
Tune in to Episode 71 where we speak with Detroit-based photojournalist, Sarahbeth Maney, about the power of empathy to build trust. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 70 where we speak with Baltimore-based street and documentary photographer, Devin Allen, about the importance of serving his community through photography. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 69 where we speak with New Jersey-based photographer, Clifton Prescod, about identifying his target clients and audience in order to make impactful work. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 68 where we speak with Washington D.C.-based music photographer, Victoria “Sneakshot” Ford about photographing live concerts and musicians with integrity. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 67 where we speak with New York-based portrait photographer, Elias Williams, about what it means to photograph a community with pride and dignity. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 66 where we recap some of the best quotes from our guests in 2022. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blkshutter/support
Tune in to Episode 65 where we speak with Oxford, MS-based documentary photographer, Vanessa Charlot, about the multi-faceted stories that exist within Black culture. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to episode 64 where we speak with Albuquerque, NM, commercial and editorial photographer, and filmmaker, Evan Green about building a legacy as a Black photographer in the outdoor sports scene. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 63 where we speak with New York and Los Angeles-based commercial and portrait photographer, Sage East, about manifesting her dreams. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Rita Harper is a documentary photographer and photojournalist from Atlanta, Georgia. A quiet child, she grew interested in imagery and observing her surroundings – both skills that have greatly benefited her work. With no formal art education, she began to take to the streets of Atlanta and discover a style of her own. She quickly realized the affinity she had for capturing Black life and Atlanta culture simultaneously. It is her goal to show the beauty of the everyday person. Rita has captured images of everyone from unsung pillars of tight-knit communities to regular people fighting against powerful, faceless corporations. She wishes to amplify the voices and narratives of everyday, working-class Black people and people of color as a reminder that all our lives have a purpose, importance, and value. That you do not have to be famous to have a story worth telling. Her photos have been featured in exhibitions all around Atlanta, including shows at the Future Dead Artists Gallery, Mint ATL, Georgia State University, and the Auburn Avenue Research Library. She has also been published in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, National Geographic, The Today Show Digital, Pro Publica, The Guardian, and Ilford Photo. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 61, where we speak with Miami-based commercial photographer and filmmaker, Bob Metelus, on approaching the craft with humility and confidence. He prides himself in being trusted and keeping that trust with the people he works with. That trust has led to him being the personal photographer for Dwayne Wade, Chris Paul, Rick Ross. He is the lead of Metelus Studios, which is a leading multimedia content production company within the sports and entertainment world. His clients include Gatorade, Jordan brand, ESPN, Facebook and Vogue. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 60 where we speak with Nigerian-born commercial and portrait photographer, Ebuka Mordi about using his limitations to his advantage. Ebuka is motivated by the limitations he faces. He believes there is a growth process that forces photographers to hone their skills and become better versions of themselves. Basically, they need to pay their dues. Ebuka is a portrait and commercial photographer based in Abuja, Nigeria. His work has been featured in Vogue and he has worked with Adobe Lightroom creating original presets based on his color grading skill. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
To be the first requires the strength to break barriers. And the obstacles along the way are what build you up. There are many unforeseen opportunities that prepare us for our future roles. But the key is to recognize the lessons hidden in challenging situations so we can actually reap the benefit. Our guest in this episode has a diverse background in portraiture, sports, and music. She has worked in photojournalism in Massachusetts. She was a staff photographer at Eastern Kentucky University. She has been the only Black photographer on staff in some situations. And now, she is the NHL's first Black female staff photographer. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Having interests outside of photography only makes our voice more unique. Dont limit those interests, celebrate them. Those interests can shape our perception of the world, influence our craft and in many occasions, lead to our next paid gig. Our guest in this episode is a portrait and lifestyle photographer with over 20 years of experience His clients include The Golden State Warriors, Paramount, ESPN, MTV, Vh1, VICE, McDonalds, Burger King, Pepsi, and Samsung and many more that I''ve left out for time purposes. But his interests in Chess, skateboarding and Star Trek have played a major influence in who he is as a photographer. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 57 where we speak with Chicago-based commercial and sports photographer, Marcus Smith, about breaking down his career goals into smaller steps. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
When we work on large projects each person filters the phrase based on their own unique experiences. Ron Brodie understands that whether his role is to write, direct, or produce a project, it is going to go through his filter and his experiences will influence the final product. He is an independent commercial director and cultural enthusiast. His perspective is inspired by his Jamaican-American heritage and world travels. His client list includes Facebook, Spotify, Google, and Airwalk. He's worked with several television networks such as MTV, VH1, BET, ABC, and HBO. He is the Head of Creative Development at 1st Avenue Machine. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 55 where we speak with a Brooklyn-based documentary photographer Laylah Amatullah Barrayn about seeing the world from a global Black perspective. Growing up with a pan-African view of the world and believing she was part of a worldwide Black community, she used her photography to expand and explore the world's betterment. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Mel D. Cole is a self taught photographer with over 20 years in the game. He's photographed some of the biggest names in Hip Hop and sports. He photographs nightlife, street documentary and more recently, photojournalism. During the pandemic, he transformed from a music and nightlife photographer into one of the most sought after photojournalistic reporters. Instagram Website --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 53, where we speak with Los Angeles-based writer, photographer, and cultural strategist, Chérmelle Edwards as she discusses the complex and diverse world of coffee as a culture. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 52 where we speak with Tampa-based fine art photographer, Sage Causie, about the importance of photographing dark skin beautifully. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 51, where we speak with Tulsa-based photojournalist Michael Noble Jr. about the necessity of developing a thick skin in the photo industry. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 50, where we speak with New York-based portrait photographer Keith Major about seeing the beauty in everyone, with or without the camera. He has photographed A-list clients for Sony, Essence, Cosmopolitan, and he has photographed celebrities Kevin Hart, Tessa Thompson, Samuel L. Jackson, Jennifer Hudson, Tiffany Haddish, and Usher. In addition, he is the photo director for Ebony Magazine. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 49 where we speak with Ghanaian documentary photographer, Francis Kokoroko, about the importance of sharing photos of your community. Black photographers have documented their communities for decades. Many of these talented historians have gone unnoticed. But now technology has bridged the gap, allowing photographers to more easily share images and stories of their culture. And the world gets to appreciate that beauty. Francis keeps a visual journal of his city called Accra Photo. He does with photos what poets do with words. His photography is an honest portrayal of his home and it invites viewers in with arms wide open. He believes that sharing photographs have the potential to change lives. It gives the world access to more humanity. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 48, where we speak with Metro-Atlanta-based photojournalist and documentary photographer Alyssa Pointer about her journey away from home that leads her back to her home. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 47 where we speak with Los Angeles-based documentary and sports photographer, Joseph Louis Sherman Jr. about taking risks to gain clarity. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 46, where we speak with Los Angeles-based video and photojournalist Harrison Hill about his upbringing in Louisville, Kentucky, having journalists' parents, and the importance of having a community of like-minded peers. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 45, where we speak with Chicago-based portrait, commercial and unit stills photographer, Parrish Lewis about taking leaps, betting on himself, and answering to his calling. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 44 where we speak with Los Angeles-based photographer and cinematographer, John Simmons, ASC about his upbringing in Chicago and his transition into cinematography. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 43, where we speak with Washington DC-based photojournalist and protest photographer Tony Mobley about the importance of Black photographers documenting Black history and events. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
In episode 42, where we speak with Portland, OR-based photojournalist, sports, portrait, and commercial photographer, Ivan McClellan about what it means to find his tribe within the Black Rodeo culture. We discuss his personal project, 8 Seconds, and why it is so important to bring awareness to this story. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to episode 41, where we speak with Washington, DC portrait photographer, Kirth Bobb, about photographing with compassion and the magic hidden within images. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 40 where we speak with Durham, NC-based photographer, Cornell Watson, about documenting the Black experience in White spaces. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
Tune in to Episode 39, where we speak with Brooklyn-based fashion, street, portrait, and commercial photographer, Russell Frederick. We discuss the importance of pursuing your craft despite opposition, paying your dues, and finding your purpose behind the camera. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackshutterpodcast/support
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