Ep 13 • Petronella Lugemwa
ABout Petronella
Petronella Lugemwa is an international wedding and marriage proposal photographer and speaker based out of the New York area who specializes in helping multicultural couples celebrate their love in a modern way. She was the first black woman to be named a Rising Star in wedding photography worldwide and photographed the Nov 2018 magazine cover. Her work has been featured in Essence, Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot and MunaLuchi Bride.
SHow Notes
Website: bypetronella.com
Where are you based?: NY area - specifically near Jersey City, NJ
Camera Brand: Canon
Most Influential Photographer:
Sarah Waiswa - is a Ugandan - Kenyan documentary and portrait photographer. Her work explores the "New African Identity,” what it means to be African in the eyes of younger generations vs their predecessors. Her style is organic, documentary with a focus on women. She inspires me by what she does.
Favorite Lens: 35mm because it's a storytelling lens. It's wide enough to tell the full, complete story of what's happening, who was there & what happened and I love telling visual stories.
In your opinion, what is the most/least diverse field of photography?:
It's hard to say since I'm mostly familiar with a few fields. But if I'd have to guess, I'd say sports & portraiture is most diverse and least diverse is wedding photography given what I've see in mainstream media.
What do you consider the biggest hurdle for Black photographers today?
In my case, I've found I'm the biggest hurdle. When I've sat back and not asked questions or waited for someone to pick me, nothing happened. learned that most opportunities don't just land in your lap. You have to actively believe you deserve it and seek out every opportunity, knock on every door, create your own opportunity and show up LOUD & proud, even when you're scared or get rejected. It's crucial to step outside one's comfort zone and network with key influencers. You don't need permission to ask questions or pursue an opportunity.
Share any upcoming shows/galleries/exhibits. What are you currently promoting? Share dates and locations if possible: I'm working on building my Youtube channel with educational content for photographers & multicultural and interracial couples - http://youtube.com/petronellaphotography
Check out my favorite photography tools & business books that have helped me with build my business.
Instagram: @petronellaphotography
