We were lucky to catch up with Sherri Harvey recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sherri, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose through a blend of personal passion and societal awareness. The concept of gender equality has always resonated deeply with me, and I’ve been keenly aware of issues like the #MeToo movement, the gender pay gap, and women’s reproductive health. Witnessing the ongoing struggles faced by women, particularly in regions like The Middle East and West Africa, fueled my desire to make a positive impact.
As a female photographer, I realize that I can use my skills to amplify the voices and stories of women around the world. My next documentary project will focus on showcasing the inspirational journeys of women from West Africa and beyond. Through their stories of strength, resilience, and solidarity, I aim to raise awareness about gender disparities and inspire others to support the fight for equality.
My projects are not just about capturing images; they are about shining a light on the incredible women who continue to defy obstacles with unwavering determination and love. By sharing their stories, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a photographer, I have the privilege of capturing moments that transcend borders, languages, and cultures. Through my lens, I aim to not only document the world around me but also to celebrate the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.
What excites me most about photography is its ability to freeze a single moment in time, preserving emotions, stories, and connections that would otherwise fade into memory. Whether it’s the joyous laughter of children playing in the streets, the quiet determination etched on the face of a woman working in the fields, or the shared bond between friends gathered around a table, each photograph tells a unique story.
But beyond the surface, photography has the power to bridge divides and foster empathy. In a world often divided by politics, religion, and ideology, it’s easy to forget that we are all fundamentally human. By capturing and sharing moments of everyday life, I hope to remind people of our shared humanity — the universal emotions, desires, and dreams that connect us all.
Through my work, I strive to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and inspire compassion. Whether I’m documenting the struggles of marginalized communities or celebrating the resilience of individuals overcoming adversity, my goal is always the same: to shine a light on the common threads that unite us as human beings.
In a world inundated with images, it’s easy to become desensitized to the suffering of others. But by pausing to truly see and recognize the humanity in each person I photograph, I believe we can cultivate a greater sense of empathy and understanding. In the end, it’s these moments of connection — fleeting though they may be — that remind us of our shared humanity and the power of compassion to create positive change in the world.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my travels to Phuket, East Kalimantan, Sorbas, Ghana, Togo, and Benin, plus in my everyday-life in the US, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that are always most impactful on my journies include:
1. Navigating diverse cultures requires a high degree of sensitivity and adaptability. Understanding and respecting cultural norms allows for more meaningful interactions with local communities. Being adaptable to new environments, languages, and customs facilitates smoother travel experiences and fosters genuine connections with people from different backgrounds. But most importantly, a Sense of Humor: to share a smile or a laugh with a complete stranger is one of the best moments about photographing friends not-yet known.
If you’re lost, immerse yourself in diverse cultural experiences, both at home and abroad. Engage with people from different backgrounds, read books, watch documentaries, and participate in cultural events. Practice active listening and observe social cues to better understand and appreciate cultural nuances and to realize that witnessing and observing others is the best way to find ourselves.
2. As a photographer, honing my photography skills and mastering the art of visual storytelling are crucial for capturing the essence of my travel experiences. Knowing how to compose compelling images, use lighting effectively, and convey emotion through photography allow me to create powerful narratives that resonate with viewers. The best gift we can give others is a moment of our attention, a piece of our heart, and a glimpse of our soul through a smile. The art of seeing takes patience and practice. Remember that storytelling is about bearing witness to and acknowledging our commonality.
3. Building connections with people from diverse backgrounds is about seeing, listening, bearing witness to the struggles and tribulations we all share. Holding space fosters trust, rapport, and mutual understanding means giving our time and attention to the people in our space. Celebrating by pointing the camera at a person is an acknowledgment that they, too, are important to my story. Watching them watch me with a light in their eyes as I point and shoot is such a privilege.
Challenge yourself daily. Practice active communication and interpersonal skills in everyday interactions. Engage in meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds, listen attentively, and show empathy and curiosity about their lives. Develop your ability to convey ideas and emotions through non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions. Seek opportunities to collaborate with others and learn from their perspectives.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to approach travel with an open mind, a humble attitude, and a genuine desire to learn and grow. Embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and be willing to challenge preconceptions. Remember that every encounter, whether big or small, has the potential to broaden horizons and enrich understanding of the world. Above all, treasure the moments of connection and discovery, and let them inspire continued exploration and sharing of the beauty of our diverse world through photography.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
📣 Calling All Advocates and Changemakers! 🌍🎥
Are you passionate about making a difference in the world through advocacy work or sustainable initiatives? Are you looking for a creative partner to help amplify your message and share your story with the world?
I’m a dedicated photographer and filmmaker with a deep commitment to visual storytelling. I specialize in capturing the essence of meaningful causes and bringing them to life through compelling imagery and film.
I’m on the lookout for individuals, organizations, and companies who share my passion for creating positive change and are eager to collaborate on projects that shine a spotlight on their advocacy work or sustainability efforts.
Whether you’re a grassroots organization striving to make a difference in your community or a company dedicated to environmental stewardship, I’m here to help you tell your story in a powerful and impactful way.
Together, we can:
✨ Create visually stunning content that captivates and inspires audiences.
✨ Highlight the important work you’re doing to promote social justice, environmental sustainability, or other critical causes.
✨ Reach a wider audience and raise awareness about your mission and impact.
✨ Spark meaningful conversations and drive positive action towards a better world.
If you’re ready to elevate your message through the art of visual storytelling, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s collaborate to bring your vision to life and make a lasting impact together.
Together, let’s change the world, one story at a time!
#VisualStorytelling #Filmmaking #Advocacy #Sustainability #Collaboration #Changemakers #MakeADifference
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sherricoyote.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherricoyote/
Image Credits
Sherri Harvey
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
