The Black Shutter Podcast (The Black Shutter Podcast)

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:

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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.

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.

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.

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Tune in to episode 18 of the Black Shutter Podcast. We speak with Atlanta based, Unit and Stills Photographer, Eli Joshua Ade about his career path to working on one of the top shows of 2020, HBO’s Lovecraft Country.

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.

Tune in to Episode 38 where we speak with Brooklyn-based documentary, commercial and portrait photographer, Aundre Larrow. We discuss what it means to be authentic as a person and how that translates into the work that we make as photographers.

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.

Tune in to Episode 21 where we chat with London based fashion and portrait photographer, Aisha Seriki. Aisha remembers growing up visiting museums and not seeing herself represented on the walls and how that fed her insecurities about who she was as a black person and as a black woman. That prompted her to pick up the camera and document black women in an empowering and respectful light with honor and dignity. She is a fashion and portrait photographer and she has recently been considered one of the 20 black photographers to follow by GQ.

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.

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.

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 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.

Tune in to Episode 30 where we speak with Nigerian born filmmaker, Emmanuel Afolabi explores the notions of identity, giving his subjects and clients individuality and dignity through visual storytelling. He is a Multidisciplinary filmmaker specializing in content creation, with a degree in film production. He’s worked with clients such as Adidas, Foot Locker, Fox, and the LA Galaxy.

Tune in to Episode 32 where we speak with Jersey City photographer, Gerard H. Gaskin, about the power of long-term photo projects as a form of therapy. His photography allows him to connect with himself and explore his identity based on his feelings and surroundings.

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.

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:

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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:

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Peace

The Black Shutter Team

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tune in to Episode 71 where we speak with Detroit-based photojournalist, Sarahbeth Maney, about the power of empathy to build trust.

Tune in to Episode 22 to hear Washington DC based documentary photographer Dee Dwyer discuss the importance of connecting with the communities she photographs. She talks about gaining access and gratitude and why it’s important to say ‘Thank You’ to the community when the project is done.

Tune in to Episode 31 where we speak with North Carolina-based artist, teacher and curator, Endia Beal. She discusses the power of collaboration as a way to collectively heal. She uses photography and video to reveal the often overlooked and unappreciated experiences unique to people of color. Her work has been featured in New York Times, NBC, BET, Huffington Post, National Geographic.

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.

Tune in as we speak with documentary and portrait photographer, Melissa ‘Bunni’ Elian, about her experiences photographing the diaspora in the U.S., the UK, and South Africa.

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.

Jean Andre Antoine is a Brooklyn based street photographer who’s made a living taking portraits of people on the streets of New York City. He has the challenge of getting a New Yorkers attention and gaining their trust. It takes a certain type of personality to wake up, pack your gear and hit the streets of NY to sell street portraits. Jean Andre Antoine has been doing this for 10 years and his dedication has landed him commissioned jobs with Nike and Tiffany and Co.

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.

Arlington, VA, based photographer, Lawrence Jackson, shares his journey to becoming an Official White House photographer for the Obama administration. He discusses the importance of being a Black man photographing the first African American president.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tune in to hear Washington DC-based photojournalist and professor, Cheriss May, discuss her time photographing politics as a Black woman. She also speaks on her experiences as both a student and professor at Howard University and the importance of having that community.

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. 

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.

Khalik Allah discovered drama on the corner of 125th st and Lexington Ave and turned it into a Street Opera. He practices camera ministry and it’s evident in how visceral and beautiful his films and photos are. His work forces us to see the beauty and humanity of people who have been discarded by society. This Harlem corner served as the foundation for his feature length film, Field Niggas as well as his first photography book “Souls Against Concrete. His award winning films have been seen in festivals, museums and schools around the World and he is a member of Magnum Photos.

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.

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.

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.

New York-based filmmaker, Thomas Allen Harris sees the Black Family Photo album as a battleground for representation. It is where Black families have the freedom to present themselves as genuinely as possible. He is the creator of the documentary Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People which was released in 2014. He is a filmmaker and artist whose work across film, video, photography, and performance illuminates the human condition and the search for identity, family, and spirituality.

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.

Tune in to Episode 36, a 2-part episode, where we speak with Chicago native photojournalist and editor, Brent Lewis. We discuss the differences between being a photographer and an editor as well as his experience working in an all-Black newsroom at ESPN’s The Undefeated. Lastly, we discuss his role at Diversify Photo and why self-accountability is so important.

Tune in to Episode 29 where we speak with Los Angeles-based portrait photographer, documentarian, and photojournalist, Tara Pixley. She holds a Ph.D. in communication and her personal projects explore Black joy, gender, sexuality, and the different representations of femininity. She is the co-founder of the Authority Collective whose aim is to bring up and support the next generation of women and non-binary photographers.

Los Angeles based photographer, Kwasi Boyd-Bouldin, captures mundane scenes with detail and importance. No matter which city he photographs, he wanders their streets with respect and a curious eye.

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.

Jamel Shabazz, Brooklyn native and documentary photographer, discusses the importance of using photography to freeze memories of his changing environment.

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.

Tune in to Episode 34 where we speak with Seattle-based portrait, documentary, and commercial photographers, Ike and Tash Haynes about balancing work, life, and family. Not every couple is built to work together, live together, and run a photography business together. Instead of choosing between being parents or entrepreneurs, Ike and Tash Haynes decided to become a family-centered business and bring their children along for the ride. This Seattle-based portrait, documentary, and commercial photography couple have created a lifestyle completely unique to their family.

Montreal based portrait photographer, Naskademini, discusses the importance of repairing the way we see the world as Black photographers. He speaks about legacy building by capturing the grace and dignity of Black people. This is the power of representation in front of the camera and behind the lens.

Tune in to Episode 15 of the Black Shutter podcast. I speak with Maryland and Los Angeles based fashion, portrait, and commercial photographer, Jabari Jacobs. We chop it up about betting on ourselves, taking risks, and how to level up our presentation when it comes to the business side of things.

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:

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Tune in to hear 2-time Emmy Award-winning photographer, Jarrad Henderson, discuss how Black History sparked his love of photography. The Washington DC-based photographer and video producer also breaks down the joys and challenges of choosing between photography and video.

Tune in as we speak with Ugandan Multicultural Wedding photographer, Petronella Lugemwa, who speaks about the importance of owning her heritage while growing up in a foreign environment. 

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.

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.

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.

International photography comes with a set of rules that apply from one culture to the next. You have to respect the culture you are visiting in order to successfully photograph the story. You need to be comfortable with being uncomfortable and that takes a certain type of personality. Nicky Woo is from Brooklyn, is half Black and half Hawaiian, and has spent the last few years telling stories in East and West Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam. She has photographed stories ranging from bombings in Sri Lanka to water erosion in Senegal to the alternative medical system in Tanzania.

Thank you to the Black Shutter Community for tuning in and supporting us as we share stories of some amazing Black and Brown photographers.

Tune in to Episode 52 where we speak with Tampa-based fine art photographer, Sage Causie, about the importance of photographing dark skin beautifully.

Tune in to Episode 33 where we speak with Atlanta-based videographer, portrait, and documentary photographer, Melissa Alexander. She discusses what it means to be seen, practicing vulnerability in her photography and betting on herself when no one else would.

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.

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.

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.

When it comes to photographing athletes and entertainers, people who treasure their private time, that trust has to be magnified. Our guest today is a sports photographer from Baltimore, Maryland. He lives his life based on the principle of personhood. Personhood centers around the concept of consciousness and the capacity to feel pain. His personhood has granted him access to document his high school basketball team which lead to him landing his first internship with the Boston Red Sox where he photographed their World Series season. His experience with the Red Sox catapulted him to team photographer of the San Antonio Spurs. He has been tasked with documenting the professional and personal lives of these athletes. A right that would not be granted to someone who is not trustworthy.

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.

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.

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.

Kris Graves blurs the lines between portrait and landscape photography. He creates artwork that deals with his perspective of what's wrong with American society and aims to use art as a means to inform people about social issues. Kris has a long list of clients, including Vanity Fair and National Geographic. He also has two publishing companies to help photographers print books of their work. 

Tune in to Episode 17 to hear how New York-based portrait photographer, painter, and illustrator, Nichole Washington, finds balance and meaning by combining her different skill sets and interests.

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.

Tune in to Episode 66 where we recap some of the best quotes from our guests in 2022.

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.

Tune in to Episode 40 where we speak with Durham, NC-based photographer, Cornell Watson, about documenting the Black experience in White spaces.

Tune in to Episode 16 to hear New Orleans based documentary photographer, L. Kasimu Harris, discuss the importance of documenting a community that is slowly being erased and how that influences both his photography and his writing.

Tune in to Episode 35 to hear the legendary Adger Cowans discuss his upbringing in Columbus, Ohio, assisting Gordon Parks at Life Magazine and how a trip to Brazil impacted his creativity.

In the 1950’s, photography was considered a hobby that only White people pursued. It was not a job and it was not something Black folks really considered. Cameras and film were expensive. Education was expensive. And there was rampant racism. Adger Cowans believes that the camera is a tool to do research. That belief has led him to assist Gordon Parks at Life Magazine, become the first Black union photographer in the film industry as well as becoming one of the cofounders of the Kamoinge Collective.

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.

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.