Photography in Rhode Island is having a moment. Thanks to aesthetic-forward platforms like the ’gram, Tik Tok, and the like, the world is being exposed to our sensorially stunning and scenic land, sky, city and ocean-scapes. Much due credit is owed to the casual capturers on their iPhones, as well as the micro and macro-influencers getting hip to the state with as much motion as we have like the ocean, but above all, our local photographers deserve praise and upliftment in this moment. In this photo renaissance, mediums like film have been revived, cutting edge drone videography has skyrocketed, and utilization of the internet has redirected our lenses back to the beauty of community. Embodying this emphasis on community, here are six photographers to keep your eyes on, sharing about what they do, how and why, in their own words.
“I share my view of the city I live in and love through my lens. I enjoy freezing moments in time for others to see, comment on, and reflect upon. I’m drawn to the idea of people viewing my images and connecting with the moments I’ve captured, knowing that no two people see an image the same way in that instant. There is also a gap in coverage within Black and brown communities that I hope to help fill. Our stories are just as important as any others and deserve preservation. I hope that both the paid and volunteer work I do contributes, even in a small way.” Instagram: iknowjustincase
“Through my career at the Providence Journal, I was fortunate enough to focus my camera on the small threads that form the tapestry of community life across the state and make up the richness of Rhode Island. Having left the Journal, the intention of my practice is to continue to listen and photograph people in their space, in their time, and in their world because I feel these stories need to be heard and these faces need to be seen, not just within the members of that community, but communities far outside its boundaries.” PictureKris.wordpress.com
“The intention of my art is for folks to see the community, the black community, queer community, the community of women, as I see them. To associate words of softness, joy, and beauty, with the folks seen through my lens. My art practice wouldn’t be possible without the aid and trust of the community I created and remain a part of. It’s an honor to tell our stories and be a safekeeper of our special moments through portrait photography.” Instagram: kincaidelaine_
“The intention of my art and practice is to serve as a vessel for personal histories, offering viewers an intimate encounter with both my own story and the broader human experience. Rooted in film-based portraiture and self-portraiture, I use my 4x5 large-format camera to create images that are intentional, vulnerable, and deeply tied to personal and cultural histories. Beyond photography, my curatorial work and community organizing create opportunities for artists and audiences to connect in meaningful ways. I believe art serves as both a personal outlet and a communal space to process histories, imagine possibilities, and build bridges across differences.” Instagram: caterinamaina.studio
“The intention of my art/practice is to use photography to create space for people to be seen as they are, centering authenticity, representation, and the power of visibility. Capturing quiet strength and joyful connection is one of my favorite aspects of this medium.” Instagram: deespeaks_
“As a photographer, I use my camera to create and celebrate community. Who we photograph and focus on matters! The photo shown here was made in Providence in collaboration with PVD World Music to promote the diversity of African traditions in art and music. In my long-term personal photo series, entitled HOMECOMING, I photograph strangers at their homes in Rhode Island.” Instagram: sindayiganza
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