Schaun Champion
“My experience of being a black female photographer has been mixed with discouragement from lack of representation, lack of opportunity, fighting for equal pay as well as recent interest in the way we capture black skin and document our own existence.”
What does the Black gaze mean to you?
The Black gaze is the visual interpretation, subtle nuances and quiet observations of how I as a Black woman view the world around me.
How does the Black gaze relate to your photography practice?
The dance of shadow and light and the balance of both seeing the unseen and being the unseen.
What do you want to say or address with your photography?
I want to address the lack of Black women photographer representation and share my view of Blackness, Black skin, Black joy but also...being quite ordinary (or extraordinary).
What influences and inspires you? How is this reflected in your work?
Classic films, vintage clothing and analogue photography. The way I colour my work is how my refresh of the beautiful work I grew up seeing.
Who are your favourite Black photographers from the past? Why?
Florestine Perrault Collins, Carrie Mae Weems, Gordon Parks, and Deborah Willis.
Please describe the highs and lows of your experience as a Black photographer?
My experience of being a black female photographer has been mixed with discouragement from lack of representation, lack of opportunity, fighting for equal pay as well as recent interest in the way we capture black skin and document our own existence.
Recently, the highs of my career have been the acknowledgement of my personal project "A Black Bouquet" and having the privilege of working with public figures and major publications. Most recently having my work painted on 3 different walls in two states and Washington DC.
What work are you producing and what more would you like to do?
I'm producing Editorial, Photojournalistic, Commercial, and Fine Art Work. I would love to get more Editorial and Key Art Work, while continuing my Fine Art practice.
Schaun is an international photographer, filmmaker and instructor who specializes in natural light, portraiture, fine art and cultural documentary work. Using both analogue and digital cameras, she creates intentionally cinematic and honest imagery.