We recently connected with Hawa Maya Bangura and have shared our conversation below.
Hawa Maya, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
Learning the craft of photography is an exciting and ongoing journey that revolves around the mastery of manipulating light. At its core, photography is the art of capturing and controlling light through a box with a hole – a camera – to transform moments into timeless photographs. To embark on this creative path is to delve into a world of technical and artistic knowledge.
In the realm of photography, there’s a multitude of essential concepts to grasp. These include understanding shutter speed, which determines the duration of light exposure; exploring F-stops to control the aperture size and depth of field; familiarizing oneself with camera settings, both in the digital and analog realms; honing the skill of composition to frame images artistically; and becoming proficient in lighting techniques that can dramatically alter the mood and impact of a photograph.
Moreover, a photographer must delve into the intricacies of depth of field, focal lengths, and metering. These aspects not only affect how subjects are rendered in an image but also allow photographers to convey their unique perspectives and narratives.
One of the most remarkable aspects of photography is that it’s an art form that keeps evolving. It’s not a skill one perfects and then leaves behind; instead, it’s a continuous journey of discovery and growth. As one progresses into the profession, they will find themselves continually exploring new techniques, experimenting with different equipment, and adapting to changing technologies and trends.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Hawa Maya, the creative force behind Hawa Maya Photography, embarked on her remarkable photographic journey back in 2010. It all began when her grandmother bestowed upon her a small point-and-shoot camera as a Christmas gift. Little did she know that this seemingly ordinary gift would ignite a lifelong passion for photography.
During her high school years, Hawa honed her skills by capturing the essence of her friends and family through her lens. These early experiences sparked an undeniable connection between her and the art of photography. Eager to further cultivate her talents, she decided to pursue a formal education in photography at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
In 2016, armed with a degree in photography and a heart full of creative ambition, Hawa Maya took her first step into the world of professional photography. She founded her own photography business, specializing in a diverse range of genres, including portrait, commercial, editorial, and lifestyle photography.
As a budding entrepreneur and a passionate artist, Hawa encountered a unique set of challenges. Learning how to navigate the intricacies of running a business while maintaining her creative edge presented its own set of hurdles. She grappled with the complexities of marketing herself in an ever-evolving industry, understanding pricing structures, expanding her client base, and, crucially, staying current and imaginative amidst the ever-changing trends in photography.
In today’s digital age, where social media reigns supreme, Hawa Maya recognizes the paramount importance of staying connected and engaged with her audience. She understands that consistency in posting content is key to letting people know she is active and eager to create lasting visual memories.
Hawa Maya’s photography not only captures moments but also tells stories. Through her lens, she paints vivid pictures of life, love, and the human experience. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her entrepreneurial spirit, has propelled her towards becoming a sought-after name in the photography world. With each click of the shutter, Hawa Maya continues to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, leaving an indelible mark on the world of photography.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the genuine excitement that lights up in the eyes of my clients when they see the finished photos for the first time. It’s an exhilarating experience, and it serves as a constant reminder that I belong in this industry, making my mark in the creative world one photoshoot at a time. Their joy and appreciation for my work fuel my passion and reaffirm my commitment to my craft.
Another deeply rewarding aspect is witnessing my work come to life in a tangible form. While we often view our art on computer screens, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of holding a printed piece in your hands and watching it come to life before your eyes. It’s a moment of validation, and it adds a new dimension to the art, making it more real and impactful.
Collaboration with fellow creatives is yet another source of immense satisfaction. The creative field is enriched by the diversity of perspectives and ideas, and working with others is always an enjoyable journey. Coming together to brainstorm new concepts, generate fresh ideas, and bring projects to life is not only fun but also immensely fulfilling. The synergy of creative minds collaborating is a magical experience, and it’s immensely satisfying to see our joint efforts shared with the world.
Lastly, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a creative is witnessing your own growth. As they say, practice makes perfect, and it’s incredibly motivating to see how far you’ve come from your beginnings. It’s a tangible testament to the dedication and hard work put into honing your craft. This growth not only instills confidence but also propels you to keep pushing your creative boundaries, knowing that there are no limits to what you can achieve.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Absolutely, reflecting on my creative journey, there are several valuable resources that I wish I had known about earlier. These resources have the potential to significantly enhance one’s creative pursuits:
Grant Opportunities: In hindsight, I wish I had been aware of the numerous companies and organizations that offer grants to support creative projects. Entities like Canon, Nikon, Creative Capital, and the Pulitzer Foundation, among others, provide funding that can empower artists to bring their projects to life. These grants not only offer financial support but also open doors to collaborate with other creatives and acquire the necessary resources for ambitious endeavors.
Facebook Photography Groups: Facebook hosts a vibrant community of photography groups where professionals and experienced photographers actively engage. Joining these groups can be an invaluable resource for aspiring creatives. Within these communities, you can find mentors willing to share their expertise, send additional resources, and provide constructive feedback on your work. The collective knowledge and support in these groups can significantly accelerate your growth as a photographer.
Photography Meet-ups: Many cities offer photography meet-up groups that provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow photographers. These gatherings not only allow you to network but also offer a platform for practicing and learning new techniques from other creatives. The camaraderie and shared passion for photography make these meet-ups an excellent resource for skill development and inspiration.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hawamaya.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/HawaMayaPhotography
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@hawamaya5455?si=cpdnaOUshjDVdWvA
Image Credits
All photos taken by Hawa Maya