Naomi #mixedmonday

This week's #mixedmonday is the talented Bristol based photographer, Naomi Williams @williams.naomi_

Hi my name is Naomi and I am a Bristol based photographer, aged 24, specialising in documentary, portraits and events. As an introvert, I have always been intrigued by the way people interact, intimacy and curious about emotion. 

I moved to Bristol from Nottingham in 2018 to study BA Photography. I started to use photography as a way of exploring my curiosities. This lead me to create projects about my family, my culture, relationships and self exploration. 

How would you describe your ethnicity? 

My parents/family are from Jamaica and the UK. I describe myself as mixed.

Has your mixed-ness influenced your career in any way?

I think it was when I moved away to uni that I really noticed that I was mixed, or that was when I was really shown my Blackness. Moving away from family, being in a predominantly white university and being away from my culture and roots. I didn’t know where to place myself. It was kind of like my eyes were open for the first time. 

Photography seems to be really white male dominated. Sometimes when photographing I get looked at like I should be there, that this is not my space. But, this is what I love to do, so I make space for myself.

What is the best thing about being mixed heritage?

The best thing about being mixed heritage is being able to enjoy and embrace my culture. Blending cultures, having conversations and soaking in experiences.