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 document ..read more

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 ..read more

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 c ..read more

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. --- Suppo ..read more

Tune in to Episode 37 where we speak with Brooklyn-based fashion, portrait, and wedding photographer Joshua Dwain. We discuss having diversity in your portfolio vs. focusing on a niche audience and the importance of work-life balance. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support ..read more

Tune in to Episode 28 where we speak with Polly Irungu, a Kenyan born multimedia journalist, photographer, and founder of Black Women Photographers, a global community and online database of Black women and non-binary photographers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blkshutter/support ..read more

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.spoti ..read more

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 ..read more

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 vo ..read more

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 ..read more