- Dawoud Bey approaches the idea of using photography as a way of finding his voice. Over the years, it has come to Bey’s realization that due to his hearing loss, he has “compensated for that by tending to see more”, hence the blooming of his voice through his eyes and the use of photography. Amongst Bey’s many projects, he focused on photographing African Americans in an uplifting manner as opposed to how they are portrayed in the media. His goal was to shift away from the lens of social pathology, and capture the complexity and true essence of the black community, shedding a new light into the world.
- Carrie Mae Weems uses photography as a way to find not only her voice, but a voice for women in general, of all races and ethnicities. She uses her kitchen table as her escape to feed into her vision. In her project, “The Kitchen Table Series”, Weems’ sets the scene for a new perspective, which is typically seen as a woman’s destined placement in the house. She showcases the reality of what goes on in this particular area, along with the many battles present including, “the battle around the family” and “the battle between the sexes”. Her goal was to alter this domestic space and the social living arrangements present, as well as the social dynamics between men and women.
- Self expression has no limitations nor borders, therefore, I believe you can find your own voice through whichever ways you please. Finding your own voice consists of exploring different vessels through which you can use to communicate your inner thoughts and feelings. As long as they are compatible enough to allow you to relay your message in a way that’s meaningful and feels most natural, these vessels can be whatever you wish, and whatever allows you to feel the most comfortable, confident, and free. Â
Good insights into photographers work. Both photographers are using their voice to challenge stereotypes.
Experimentation and time for development will help find your voice. Also finding your voice is a continual process