We’ve often emphasized how women artists provide a remarkable perspective in the arts. From Julia Margaret Cameron’s enchanting portraits and Anna Atkins’ groundbreaking photo book on algae to Dora Maar’s surreal photographs and Dorothea Lange’s poignant depictions of The Great Depression, these women photographers have demonstrated their ability to convey nuanced narratives about the world. Their contributions have inspired many younger women to embrace photography, liberating themselves from the confines that limit their creativity and expression. In their honor, we bring to you women photographers who are making significant impacts in the contemporary art world with their intimate and thought-provoking stories.
The lead image is by Sharon Harris. All images are used with permission.
Sujata Setia
One of the best South Asian women photographers of the year, Setia’s powerful work, A Thousand Cuts, depicts the stories of women facing domestic violence. A survivor herself, Setia’s project functions on two levels: one, where she gives a glimpse at the survivor without disclosing their identity, and second, where she reminds us of their dreams and aspirations. The image above, for instance, depicts barbed wires turning into birds, which celebrates the freedom of women who left their abusive marriages. Through this series, Setia offers an intimate glimpse into the challenges women face in an unjust society.
Sharon Harris
Sharon’s work is unique as she uses the age-old technique, the pinhole camera, in a contemporary world to highlight complex subjects. For instance, in one of her series, she comments about travelers and their struggle between freedom and constraints. Her other series looked at animals and the role they played in folklore through unusual pinhole photographs. The image above is yet from another collaboration with her son and daughter, where the distortion and the pose make her daughter appear like a female version of Jesus. In her photographs, reality transforms into fiction, while fiction takes on a sense of reality.
Maren Klemp
Her series, Hidden Realm, was born out of curiosity about the parallel dimensions. However, she relied on infrared photography to make the series, which gave the boring, abandoned places an ethereal look. What is enticing is that we never see the face of the girl in her photographs. Yet, this allows us to step in her shoes and look at the images as if we were present at the scene ourselves. The mist, the unusual color, and an infinite horizon draw you in, leaving you craving for more.
Asako Naruto
Rever+Graphy is a distinct series that looks at daily life with a twist. The image above is one example where you can see varied “versions” of paths colliding. Capture in-camera, the series reminds us about the chaos and cacophony of the usual urban life. However, it also makes us consider the modern world and its grand, glimmering structures. When you look at her work, you will be reminded of the many lives we live within a single spark of a second.
Jordanna Kalman
She is one of the best women photographers whose work centers around women’s experiences and what it feels like to be a woman. Kalman’s photographs are intricate, complex, and often layered with varied themes such as memory, self, isolation, loneliness, and the magnificence of femininity. The image above is an example of this, where the use of insects and moths can be read as a woman’s role in nature. However, she also makes us think about the fragility of life and the role women play in shaping the world.
Eva Chupikova
Her minimalist photographs resemble pencil sketches and comment on the idea that less is more. The image above is a prime example of capturing portraits that transcend traditional representations while uniquely elevating the model. The crown, added through illustration, gives the woman a regal appearance, while the sepia tone makes it look like a portrait of a queen forgotten in time. Additionally, the image critiques the excesses prevalent in today’s fashion world, emphasizing the importance of stepping away from a capitalist mindset.
Kiana Hayeri and Mélissa Cornet
2024 was the year when we witnessed the erasure of women in public spaces in Afghanistan. No Woman’s Land is a documentary series that depicts the challenges and struggles of women, many of whom are forced to stay in their homes due to the Taliban’s regime. In more recent weeks, the laws have become stricter, which can only be deemed as a human rights issue. The series is thought-provoking and emotional, as it gives us a glimpse into a world that will no longer exist if we don’t do something soon.
Nina Welch-Kling
Nina’s work is truly enchanting. Her black-and-white street photographs reveal a glimpse of drama in New Yorkers’ everyday lives, and those who happen to brush past it are fortunate. The image above illustrates why Nina is one of the outstanding women street photographers. Her balloons resemble the wings of an angel, often encouraging viewers to take a second look. At the same time, they emphasize the touch of magic that our ordinary daily lives can offer.
Barbara Peacock
In her compelling series, Peacock explores the private lives of Americans and the daily challenges they encounter. The image above features the Lafayette family, illustrating how the couple is raising three children in a small apartment. This situation highlights not only financial struggles but also reflects how our economy makes it difficult to provide children with adequate living conditions. Additionally, Peacock’s work addresses various human conditions, including loneliness, homelessness, lack of healthcare, unfulfilled aspirations, and a system that can be perceived as unjust.
Verena Kersting
Lastly, on our list of incredible women photographers is Verena, who captured the essence of Iceland with her analog camera. Her series, titled “Mystic Iceland,” showcases the serene landscapes of the country, but they take on a surreal quality due to the use of purple film. While landscape photography typically aims to represent the world as it is, Verena demonstrates that a small shift in perspective can create images that blur the lines between reality and fiction.
