{"id":158281,"date":"2021-12-24T08:00:45","date_gmt":"2021-12-24T08:00:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/?p=158281"},"modified":"2021-12-28T18:55:04","modified_gmt":"2021-12-28T18:55:04","slug":"ukbftog-the-success-of-a-group-dedicated-to-black-female-photographers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/technique\/interviews\/ukbftog-the-success-of-a-group-dedicated-to-black-female-photographers\/","title":{"rendered":"UKBFTOG: the success of a group dedicated to black female photographers"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>A group dedicated to helping black female photographers is going from strength to strength. Nigel Atherton talks to UKBFTOG founder Jemella Ukaegbu and showcases some of the members\u2019 work<\/h2>\n<hr \/>\n<p>One of the benefits of social media is the way that it enables people to find and connect with other people like themselves, whether it be around a shared interest, background, experience, or around similar values and opinions. There are dozens of these groups in photography, some of which we have featured in the magazine and online, but one of the big success stories of recent years is the growth of a group exclusively for black female photographers called <a href=\"https:\/\/ukbftog.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UKBFTOG<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It came about almost by chance when London-based portrait and wedding photographer <strong>Jemella Ukaegbu<\/strong> had a realisation one day back in December 2017. \u2018I\u2019d been a photographer for many years, and came to notice that whenever I went to anything within the industry \u2013 conventions, workshops and so forth \u2013 I never saw any other people who looked like me: who were black, who were female.<\/p>\n<p>It was a bit confusing \u2013 I was thinking, I\u2019m sure I can\u2019t be the only black woman photographer in the UK. So I put a tweet out, saying \u201cwhere are all the black female photographers?\u201d and my phone went crazy with all these people saying, \u201cI\u2019m here!\u201d. I thought, \u201cOh my gosh, there\u2019s so many of us!\u201d It was the same on Instagram.\u2019<\/p>\n<p>At first, there was no aspiration to start a group, but then someone messaged her and said, \u2018I can\u2019t wait to see what you\u2019ve got planned,\u2019 and it got her thinking. \u2018I was like, \u201cHuh? Oh, okay\u2026\u201d Being self-employed, you don\u2019t get to go to Christmas parties and things like that and I wanted to hang out with other photographers like me who I could connect with and relate to, and go out shooting with.<\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/\u2022-MUST-USE-Jamella-Mellz-Photography-LTD_-info@mellzphotography.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158282\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/\u2022-MUST-USE-Jamella-Mellz-Photography-LTD_-info@mellzphotography.co_.jpg\" alt=\"Jemella Ukaegbu\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">One of Jemella\u2019s portraits, entitled Love at First Sight. Nikon Z 5, Z 35mm f\/1.8 lens, 1\/125sec at f\/7.1, ISO 200<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>So I thought I\u2019d try and make something out of it. The first thing I did was set up a private Facebook group. To start with it was just for London photographers but I got so many messages from around the country that it changed within a week to encompassing the whole of the UK. There are nearly 400 of us now in the private Facebook group, plus more who are just on Twitter or Instagram.\u2019<\/p>\n<p>UKBFTOG fulfils several roles. On a basic level it\u2019s a social group for the women to connect with each other, share their experiences, ask questions and go to events. \u2018Someone would say, \u201cHey there\u2019s this thing on, does anybody want to come?\u201d and we\u2019d all go together. We\u2019d do studio meet-ups to practise our studio lighting, and night photo walks. We\u2019d arrange picnics in the park. We\u2019d have meet-ups in places like Bluewater and Hackney to do co-working.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019d all be doing our own thing, emailing and editing, but just to be in the company of other people rather than on our own within our four walls at home.\u2019 Then came Covid-19, and the group took on a slightly different role. \u2018When lockdown happened, I created a WhatsApp group called The Aftermath so we could support and help each other and help us keep motivated, because obviously we didn\u2019t know what was going to happen, or when we were going to get out.<\/p>\n<p>We did weekly Zoom calls to check in on everybody. What\u2019s your goal for this week, have you completed it, where\u2019s your head at etc, just to keep everyone uplifted.\u2019<\/p>\n<p>But UKBFTOG isn\u2019t just a social group. One of its aims is to help to raise the profile of black female photographers. \u2018There\u2019s a sense among black people that it\u2019s more difficult for them to get their work seen,\u2019 explains Jemella. \u2018The photo industry is dominated by men, and its tougher for women in general coming in, but being black women and dealing with racial issues too adds another layer on top of that.\u2019<\/p>\n<p>In this regard, the group is becoming increasingly successful. This is partly due to the greater visibility that being part of a group brings, but also the confidence boost that comes from their support. When members see others in the group achieving success, it encourages them. With success comes increased visibility on social media, so more people see and follow the work, and it snowballs.<\/p>\n<p>Then you start attracting the attention of the big brands. One of the first to offer their support was Nikon, who sponsored a major exhibition of members\u2019 work in Walsall last year, and the financial support of MPB has enabled them to launch a slick new website, with new features still being developed. At the recent Photography Show at the NEC in September UKBFTOG staged another exhibition, printed by OneVision Imaging, and members gave talks on the various stages.<\/p>\n<p>As the group has grown in size, Jemella has struggled to manage the workload on top of running her business. \u2018Initially I was doing it myself \u2013 having meetings at one o\u2019clock in the morning where I\u2019d be falling asleep, but when I became pregnant that wasn\u2019t possible. But now I have a team of volunteers who help me with everything. There are so many different things that everyone is doing within their communities to help out.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve got members who help with publications, running the social media, organising our exhibitions\u2026 It is literally a sisterhood.\u2019<br \/>\nSo what are their future plans? \u2018We have so many things we\u2019d like to do,\u2019 she says. \u2018Weekend conferences, photography retreats for the girls\u2026 We want to continue developing ourselves as photographers but also developing ourselves as women, because if we don\u2019t look after ourselves we can\u2019t really thrive and become better photographers.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Photography by UKBFTOG Members<\/h2>\n<h2>Jemella Ukaegbu<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.MellzPhotography.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.MellzPhotography.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Jemella has been a full-time photographer for eight years, since graduating from Kingston University with a first class photography degree. \u2018I was working at a studio in Brixton while I was still at uni,\u2019 she recalls, \u2018so I was practising it professionally as well as studying it, picking up a few clients, and when I left uni, I registered my own business, Mellz Photography, and went full time.\u2019<\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/\u2022-MUST-USE-Jemella-Ukaegbu-Founder-of-UKBFTOG.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158283\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/\u2022-MUST-USE-Jemella-Ukaegbu-Founder-of-UKBFTOG.jpg\" alt=\"Jemella Ukaegbu ukbftog founder\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Jemella Ukaegbu, founder of UKBFTOG<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Her studio space for most of that time was her mum\u2019s front room. \u2018I had to move the dining table and chairs every single weekend because my mum was a childminder, so in the week the front room was a nursery, and come the weekend it was my studio space,\u2019 she says. Jemella finally opened her own studio, in Hither Green, last year, but 2020 was eventful for other reasons too.<\/p>\n<p>\u2018I got married, fell pregnant, had a baby and opened my studio all in the same year, in the middle of a pandemic,\u2019 she laughs, \u2018so it was very stressful. But it\u2019s now or never. I\u2019ve been given an opportunity and if you don\u2019t try you don\u2019t know. To make a living in photography today you have to be brave, and know your worth.<\/p>\n<p>When I was learning I was only focused on the creative side, but now I know it\u2019s just as important to focus on the business side. I want to scale up, I want to grow, and you have to make that transitional change in your head that you\u2019re actually running a business. How am I going to do this, what are my overheads, what do I need to charge? When I started out, social media wasn\u2019t really a thing so I had to do all the market-stall pop-ups, the leaflets through the doors and so on, to build awareness.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Ada Okekeogbu<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.adaokekeogbuphotography.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.adaokekeogbuphotography.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Ada-Okekeogbu_Queen_07446287743_adaokekeogbuphotograpraphy@hotmail.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158284\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Ada-Okekeogbu_Queen_07446287743_adaokekeogbuphotograpraphy@hotmail.jpg\" alt=\"Ada Okekeogbu\" width=\"1024\" height=\"715\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">My Crown! My pride! Nikon D800, Sigma 35mm f\/1.4 Art<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Born and raised in Nigeria, Ada moved to the UK to join her husband who was a trainee GP at the time. Now based in Oban, Scotland, she combines her photography business with a role as a biomedical scientist at the local hospital.<\/p>\n<p>\u2018I bought my first DSLR when I became pregnant with my first daughter,\u2019 she tells us. \u2018Friends saw my photos on social media and started paying me to photograph their babies too, and today I am a multi-award winning newborn and family photographer.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Elizabeth Okoh<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/boudoir.elizabethokoh.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.boudoir.elizabethokoh.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 621px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Elizabeth-Okoh_OkohsBoudoir_Hello@elizabethokoh.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158285\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Elizabeth-Okoh_OkohsBoudoir_Hello@elizabethokoh.jpg\" alt=\"Elizabeth Okoh ukbftog \" width=\"601\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Ikeke: The Power of a Woman. Nikon D750, Tamron 24-70mm f\/2.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018I\u2019m a British-Nigerian author and photographer with a penchant for storytelling and wanderlust,\u2019 Elizabeth tells us. Her journey in photography began at 15 years old when she found an old camera in her parents\u2019 room. \u2018As a portrait photographer,<br \/>\nI specialise in empowering women through the art of boudoir photography.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Liliana S\u00e9ca Santos<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lilianasecasantos.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.lilianasecasantos.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Liliana-Seca-Santos-Photography_Bonita_info@lilianasecasantos.co_.uk_www.lilianasecasantos.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158286\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Liliana-Seca-Santos-Photography_Bonita_info@lilianasecasantos.co_.uk_www.lilianasecasantos.co_.jpg\" alt=\"Liliana S\u00e9ca Santos\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Bonita. Canon EOS 5D Mark III, Sigma 35mm f\/1.4 Art<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018I was inspired to pursue a career in portraiture by the stunning b&amp;w images of the photojournalist Sebasti\u00e3o Salgado, while studying media and journalism in my native Portugal,\u2019 recalls Liliana, who now lives in Walthamstow and specialises in newborn and baby photos. \u2018Photography, and in particular photographing babies, is my absolute passion.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Helen Leonard<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/helofabeauty.com\/photography-services\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.helofabeauty.com\/photography-services<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 630px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Helen-Leonard-CHARLENE-info@helofabeauty.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158287\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Helen-Leonard-CHARLENE-info@helofabeauty.jpg\" alt=\"Helen Leonard\" width=\"610\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Floral Dreams. Canon EOS 5D Mark II, EF100mm f\/2.8 Macro<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Helen is a London and Essex-based beauty-focused photographer.\u2018I became serious about photography about five years ago, initially to show off my work as a hair and make-up artist,\u2019 she explains. \u2018Having worked in the beauty industry for over 20 years, I knew the standard expected for high-end beauty photography, so I studied photography and took pictures of everything I could whenever I could to build my portfolio. I haven\u2019t looked back since.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Tobi Sobowale<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.shobolondon.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.shobolondon.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Tobi-Sobowale_SHOBO-London_Purple-Smoke-01_www.shobolondon.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158288\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Tobi-Sobowale_SHOBO-London_Purple-Smoke-01_www.shobolondon.jpg\" alt=\"Tobi Sobowale ukbftog\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Purple smoke: Karen Safo. Canon EOS 700D, 50mm f\/1.4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Tobi is a British-Nigerian multi- disciplinary writer, photographer and architectural designer, with an academic background in architecture. She was born and raised in London and currently resides there. \u2018Growing up, I battled with insecurities regarding my appearance and used photography to repair my relationship with my self-image and explore ideas around value and self-worth,\u2019 she tells us.<\/p>\n<p>Her photography showcases the beauty and diversity of black women. \u2018I want them to see my work and feel empowered, encouraged, and inspired.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Oluwayemisi Oshodi<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/adventureswithshayo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@adventureswithshayo<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Shayo-Oshodi-OluwayemisiOshodi_Lostinlove_shayooshodi@gmail.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158289\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Shayo-Oshodi-OluwayemisiOshodi_Lostinlove_shayooshodi@gmail.jpg\" alt=\"Oluwayemisi Oshodi\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Lost in Love, with Daizy Wreford. Nikon Z 6, Sigma 50mm f\/1.4 Art<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Shayo is a doctor and freelance photographer based in Birmingham. \u2018My photography journey started at medical school but didn\u2019t develop into a true passion until lockdown, when I started self-portraits,\u2019 she says. \u2018Being thrown into the front lines of the NHS during a pandemic was incredibly demanding.<\/p>\n<p>Self-portraits forced me to take a step back, become more introspective and appreciate who I am, and help me focus on who I want to become. Portraits are especially magical to me as I believe a whole story can be seen on a face if you look hard enough.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Camille Fontaine<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/camillefontaine.online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.camillefontaine.online<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Camille-Fontaine_Camille-Fontaine-Creative_The-HOME-Series-Armando_camillefontaine1@outlook.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158290\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Camille-Fontaine_Camille-Fontaine-Creative_The-HOME-Series-Armando_camillefontaine1@outlook.jpg\" alt=\"Camille Fontaine ukbftog member\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">The HOME series: Armando. Canon EOS 77D, 18-55mm<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Camille is a multi-disciplinary creative based in London. \u2018I use photography and film to document society and explore frameworks of normative narratives,\u2019 she says. \u2018My current project The Home Series explores the relationship between location, citizenship and identity from within the global African diaspora.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Julietta Arden-Taylor<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.juliettaardentaylorphotography.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.juliettaardentaylorphotography.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 621px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Julietta-Arden-Taylor-motherhood_juliettaardentaylorphotography.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158291\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Julietta-Arden-Taylor-motherhood_juliettaardentaylorphotography.co_.jpg\" alt=\"Julietta Arden-Taylor\" width=\"601\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Just Between Us. Nikon D750, Sigma 85mm f\/1.4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Julietta is based in Northamptonshire and started her family photography business six years ago after soul-searching for a new career. \u2018I love the portraits of my mother holding me as baby and they have been my inspiration,\u2019 she tells us.<\/p>\n<p>\u2018Most mothers hate having their photo taken but I\u2019m making it my mission to show how I can make them look and feel beautiful in photographs. I am also motivated by knowing my work is creating a visual legacy for children. A photo proudly displayed in their home reminds them they are loved.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Adeseun Ogunseye<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dfsdphotography.mypixieset.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.dfsdphotography.mypixieset.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Adeseun-O-dfsdphotography_copy.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158292\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Adeseun-O-dfsdphotography_copy.jpg\" alt=\"Adeseun Ogunseye\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Ballerina. Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 24-70mm f\/2.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Adeseun is based in Chesterfield and shoots under the name of DFSD Photography. She describes herself as a wife, mother and a dreamer with a passion for photography. \u2018I derive joy in capturing and freezing moments in life which will be treasured and make families and individuals smile for many years to come,\u2019 she says.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>LA Creativity<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lacreativity.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.lacreativity.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/LACreativity-BoudoirbyLA_JustRelax_www.lacreativity.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158293\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/LACreativity-BoudoirbyLA_JustRelax_www.lacreativity.co_.jpg\" alt=\"LA Creativity\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Just Relax. Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 50mm lens<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Londoner LA is interested in capturing the essence of people from her Caribbean community. \u2018Growing up was difficult, as I didn\u2019t believe I was beautiful,\u2019 she recalls.<\/p>\n<p>\u2018I had to change my mindset and in doing so I realised that more women needed to do the same. I now use my camera to empower women to love the skin you\u2019re in\u2019 with my boudoir and nude art photography.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Latoya Okuneye<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/___fits___\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@___fits___<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 504px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Latoya-fits-Okuneye_Omode-project_artbyfitoor@gmail.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158294\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Latoya-fits-Okuneye_Omode-project_artbyfitoor@gmail.jpg\" alt=\"Latoya Okuneye ukbftog\" width=\"484\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Omode (the children). Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, 24-70mm f\/4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018My work explores different facets of black beauty, womanhood and the female human experience,\u2019 says 23-year-old south Londoner Latoya, who only took up photography as recently as May 2019, out of a desire to document and learn more about the world around her. \u2018My work is mostly based around creating intentionally colourful and playful yet striking imagery.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Dionne Bailey<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.diamondclassphotography.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.diamondclassphotography.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dionne-Bailey_Diamondclassphotography_Halloween-Shoot-Oct-2021.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158295\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dionne-Bailey_Diamondclassphotography_Halloween-Shoot-Oct-2021.jpg\" alt=\"Dionne Bailey ukbftog member\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Silent Whisper. Sony A7 III, 24-70mm f\/2.8 GM<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Dionne runs Diamondclass photography in Harrow, London, shooting portraits, events and commercial projects. \u2018My passion for photography comes from my teenage years when I always carried my film camera around and took pictures of family and friends, and soon became the designated photographer.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Kimberley Saddler<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.kimberleysaddlerphotography.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.kimberleysaddlerphotography.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Kimberley-Saddler_detailedportraitBW_ksaddlerphotography@gmail.com_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158296\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Kimberley-Saddler_detailedportraitBW_ksaddlerphotography@gmail.com_.jpg\" alt=\"Kimberley Saddler\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">\u2018Dad\u2019. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, 50mm f\/1.4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Kimberley hails from Sheffield but is now based in London where she shoots portraiture, events and weddings. \u2018I didn\u2019t go down the route of studying photography at university,\u2019 she admits. \u2018Instead, I learned through being able to borrow other people\u2019s cameras. Scholar and poet Rumi said, \u201cLet the beauty of what you love be what you do.\u201d I am privileged to say that I do what I love.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Laura Rose Whereatt<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thepinkrosephotography\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@thepinkrosephotography<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 746px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/LauraRose_thepinkrosephotography-Baskinyourglory_thepinkrosephotography@gmail.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158297\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/LauraRose_thepinkrosephotography-Baskinyourglory_thepinkrosephotography@gmail.jpg\" alt=\"Laura Rose Whereatt\" width=\"726\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Bask in your Glory. Nikon D810, 50mm f\/1.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Laura is from Bristol but now lives in London. \u2018I rediscovered my love of photography after having my second daughter and in trying<br \/>\nto find myself,\u2019 she tells us. \u2018After many years of just being a working mum, I found that taking pictures had always, though without really knowing, been a massive part of my being.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Carla Thomas<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/carlathomasphoto.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.carlathomasphoto.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Carla-Thomas_The-Veil-p_www.carlathomasphoto.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158298\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Carla-Thomas_The-Veil-p_www.carlathomasphoto.jpg\" alt=\"Carla Thomas\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">The Veil. Nikon D700, 24-70mm<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Carla is an international wedding and portrait photographer who, for over 15 years, has infused her love of storytelling into her photography. She says, \u2018I love connecting with my clients and anticipating the moment to create photos that tell their story and capture their individuality.\u2019 Carla also loves to travel and photograph the world around her.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Ruby LDN<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.rubyldn.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.rubyldn.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 621px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/RUBY-LDN__-Montunrayo_50-Black-Women_hq@rubyldn.co_.uk_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158299\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/RUBY-LDN__-Montunrayo_50-Black-Women_hq@rubyldn.co_.uk_.jpg\" alt=\"Ruby LDN\" width=\"601\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">50 Black Women: Motunrayo. Nikon D750, 70-200mm f\/2.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018Half of my photography is documentary and photojournalism and the other 50% is creative, fun and dramatic,\u2019 explains Ruby. \u2018I am putting together a photobook to document the lives of 50 successful black women. It aims to improve the representation of the varied careers of black women in England. The book will be distributed to schools and the profit donated to a charity.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Keisha George<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.kapturedbykage.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.kapturedbykage.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Keisha-George-KapturedbyKaGe_ThelightsAbove_www.kapturedbykage.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158300\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Keisha-George-KapturedbyKaGe_ThelightsAbove_www.kapturedbykage.jpg\" alt=\"Keisha George ukbftog member\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">The Lights Above Canon EOS 7D, EF 24mm lens<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018I fell into photography like people fall in love,\u2019 admits Keisha. \u2018I woke up one day and said \u201cI want to be a photographer\u201d and took the necessary steps to make that come true. I realised that I had a natural eye and it has brought me a lot of unexpected joy. I try to make it my mission to create a positive atmosphere with a fun vibe.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Shade O Thompson<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.shadedidthat.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.shadedidthat.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 656px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Shade-Thompson-SHADE-DID-THAT_SMILE-_-GLOW_WWW.SHADEDIDTHAT.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158301\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Shade-Thompson-SHADE-DID-THAT_SMILE-_-GLOW_WWW.SHADEDIDTHAT.jpg\" alt=\"Shade O Thompson ukbftog member\" width=\"636\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Smile and Glow. Sony A7, 50mm f\/1.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018For me, getting the \u201cperfect picture\u201d is all about building a connection with the subject,\u2019 says London-based photographer Shade, who shoots fashion, portraiture and weddings.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Margaret Hanson-Omani<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.itseffiephotography.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.itseffiephotography.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Margaret-Hanson-Omani_Autumnfamilyshoot_itseffiephotographydotcom-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158302\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Margaret-Hanson-Omani_Autumnfamilyshoot_itseffiephotographydotcom-1.jpg\" alt=\"Margaret Hanson-Omani\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Autumn Gold Canon EOS 5D, Mark IV, 85mm f\/1.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Margaret Hanson-Omani is a married mother of two daughters based in London. \u2018My love for capturing moments began when I had my first daughter and I have not been seen without a camera since,\u2019 Margaret tells us.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Morlene Fisher<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/morlenefisher.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.morlenefisher.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/morlenefisher_onguard-5467_morlenefisher.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158303\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/morlenefisher_onguard-5467_morlenefisher.co_.jpg\" alt=\"Morlene Fisher\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Game of Fear. Nikon D850, Sigma 18-250mm<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Morlene graduated from Goldsmiths College in London with a MA in Photography and Urban Cultures. Since finishing her studies, she continues her exploration of the black British identity. \u2018I use portraiture to explore stories around belonging and identity, racism and migration,\u2019 she says, \u2018but since moving to picturesque Kent I have started to explore landscape and seascape photography.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Denise Maxwell<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lensi.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.lensi.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1370px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Denise-Maxwell_Lensi-Photography-Shayla-Old-Town_07944040760_-www.lensi_.co_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158304\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Denise-Maxwell_Lensi-Photography-Shayla-Old-Town_07944040760_-www.lensi_.co_.jpg\" alt=\"Denise Maxwell\" width=\"1350\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Shayla. Canon EOS 5D Mark III, EF 24-105mm f\/4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018\u201cYu lef yu good job fi gu tek picture!\u201d These were the words of my Jamaican nan when I told her I was leaving the NHS to become a photographer. It translates as \u201cYou\u2019re leaving your good job to take photos!\u201d says Denise, who works under the name of Lensi Photography.<\/p>\n<p>She has now been a successful multi-genre photographer for 11 years, with a portfolio that includes sports, events, fashion, weddings, documentary, red carpet and corporate work. \u2018It is important for me to be challenged by my work,\u2019 she adds.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Mariam Nakyobe<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.mariamtheugandan.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.mariamtheugandan.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/MARIAM-NAKYOBE-MARIAMTHEUGANDAN-PHOTOGRAPHY_MUSLIM-BRIDE_07878037098_WWW.MARIAMTHEUGANDAN.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158305\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/MARIAM-NAKYOBE-MARIAMTHEUGANDAN-PHOTOGRAPHY_MUSLIM-BRIDE_07878037098_WWW.MARIAMTHEUGANDAN.jpg\" alt=\"Mariam Nakyobe ukbftog member\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Portrait of a Bride. Sony A7 III, FE 85mm f\/1.4<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Mariam took up photography when she was living in the US and her family were back in her native Uganda. \u2018I only saw them once a year for two weeks, so photography was my way to preserve moments with my loved ones and comfort me when the homesickness hit,\u2019 explains Mariam, now based in Milton Keynes. \u2018As I shared these photos online, friends and acquaintances started hiring me to take their photos.\u2019 She now specialises in weddings.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Sahara Williams<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ashantimaroonphotography\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@ashantimaroonphotography<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/SaharaWilliams-AshantiMaroonSmilingFamilyashantimaroon@yahoo.com_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158306\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/SaharaWilliams-AshantiMaroonSmilingFamilyashantimaroon@yahoo.com_.jpg\" alt=\"Sahara Williams ukbftog\" width=\"1024\" height=\"855\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Life, Love, Joy&#8230; Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, 24-70mm f\/2.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Born and raised in London, Sahara discovered photography when she was a bridesmaid at a wedding in 2012. \u2018I needed to take care of the children and entertained them by instigating a photo session. Since then my passion has grown into a photography business.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>NK Abani<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nkabani.photography\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.nkabani.photography<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Nk-Abani-Photography-Mr-_-Mrs-1-www.nkabani.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158307\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Nk-Abani-Photography-Mr-_-Mrs-1-www.nkabani.jpg\" alt=\"NK Abani\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Black Love. Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 24-70mm f\/2.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>NK is a photography graduate from the University of East London and has specialised in weddings, portraits and events for 14 years. \u2018I have an immense love for photography, so it only made sense to make my passion my business,\u2019 she says. \u2018My work is influenced by fashion and documentary photography, taking posed yet emotion-filled moments.\u2019<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Sherion Mullings<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/sherionmullingsphotography.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.sherionmullingsphotography.com<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 620px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/SherionMullings_AfricanFashionWeekUK_sheriaka@gmail.com_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158308\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/SherionMullings_AfricanFashionWeekUK_sheriaka@gmail.com_.jpg\" alt=\"Sherion Mullings ukbftog\" width=\"600\" height=\"900\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Backstage at African Fashion Week, 2018. Canon EOS 5D Mark III, 50mm lens<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Sherion specialises in fashion and lifestyle photography. \u2018I like to shoot reportage of fast-paced street style and backstage at fashion shows,\u2019 she says. Her list of published work includes Italian Vogue and is licensed through Alamy and Rex Features. She is also a mother of twins.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Naomi St Juste<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nsjweddingphotog\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@nsjweddingphotog<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t<div  class=\"c-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1044px\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/NAOMI-STJUSTE-_NSJPHOTOGRAPHY_WHATAMI_THE.NAOMI_.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"158309\" src=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/NAOMI-STJUSTE-_NSJPHOTOGRAPHY_WHATAMI_THE.NAOMI_.jpg\" alt=\"Naomi St Juste ukbftog member\" width=\"1024\" height=\"593\" \/><\/a>\t\t\t<p class=\"c-caption__text\">Identity Unknown. Sony A5000, FE 50mm f\/1.8<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>\u2018I originally bought my camera for blogging, not photography,\u2019 says Naomi, who hails from Birmingham, \u2018but it was the taking photos I fell in love with, not the blogging.\u2019 Naomi has always enjoyed photography but only recently realised that this was the career path she wanted to follow.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Further reading<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/latest\/articles\/you-can-still-make-photography-a-successful-career-in-2021-144762\">New year, new start: how to make photography your career &#8211; Amateur Photographer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Nigel Atherton talks to UKBFTOG founder Jemella Ukaegbu about how the group dedicated to black female photographers is going from strength to strength<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":158310,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[374,39],"tags":[2278],"product-category":[],"class_list":["post-158281","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-interviews","category-photo-news","tag-ukbftog"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.8 (Yoast SEO v26.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UKBFTOG: the success of a group dedicated to black female photographers - Amateur Photographer<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Nigel Atherton talks to UKBFTOG founder Jemella Ukaegbu about how the group dedicated to black female photographers is going from strength to strength\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" 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