We recently connected with Meaza Getachew and have shared our conversation below.

Meaza , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you in your creative career?

Never underestimate yourself. In my professional career working in the international development space, I’m often the youngest person in the room. I spent way too much time comparing myself and my capabilities to others, completely diminishing the time I put into my own professional development. One day I was chatting with a boss of mine who told me how she always appreciated my fresh ideas and how I brought different perspectives in whatever rooms we were in. I realized the aspects of myself that were different from other more “seasoned” professionals is the exact reason why I was hired and belonged in those rooms.

This has made me confident in my photography as well – I don’t waste time questioning myself or my ideas. If I’m doubting my skills then I double down on research and practice, I don’t let it impact my self worth because that’s priceless.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve been photographing since high school where I first learned how to develop and print black & white film. Through the years, I’ve grown as a hobbyist film photographer, particularly after moving to Baltimore in 2021. Grabbing my camera and going outside has allowed me to connect with others in my community, the photography medium has really made me feel closer to Baltimore City. In the beginning of the year I started the Baltimore PhotoWalks as a way to meet other local photographers and grow my connection to the city.

I capture everyday life – scenes that help tell stories of my surrounding environment and the people who make up that community. I love shooting architecture and this year have been growing my portrait portfolio, allowing me to deepen how I connect with people through photography.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I find the ideation to execution journey to be really rewarding. I’m a pretty detailed oriented person so taking a random idea that comes to mind and planning out exactly how I want to tackle it is pretty energizing to me. I always remain open to ebbs and flows and making mistakes, so seeing how it all comes together and the ultimate end “product” is extremely rewarding.

As a film photographer, I also find how the process forces me to slow down and be open to happy mistakes/the unexpected to be rewarding. Some times you truly don’t know how that frame will turn out until you process the roll and get to see and hold the negatives in your hands.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Pay artists!! Support local artists and art communities through paid opportunities and direct resources. Also, providing public community-based spaces for people in communities to explore their artistry is so key to sustaining a local creative ecosystem.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: mazanalog

Image Credits

Meaza Getachew