Capturing Black Essence through the lens

I feel joy, pride and, weirdly, shyness when I think about my experiences photographing the 32nd annual Black Law Students' Association conference (BLSA).

I typically photograph smaller scale events or take individual portraits, so I never imagined covering a conference of this size — but it was one I was happy to capture through my lens.

The conference was a landmark event because it was the largest gathering of Black law students in Canadian history. It also included law clerks, paralegals, lawyers and even judges – all of whom were Black. 

To witness Black excellence, Black joy and Black empowerment in one Halifax location was sensational. 

I understood exactly what the assignment was: In the presence of such excellence, you have to make sure you capture everyone at their best.- Isioma Mafiana

Photographing Black Essence

Upon arriving and setting up, I sheepishly moved around, taken aback by the amount of Black people coming in to register and socialize.

After my initial observation, I understood exactly what the assignment was: In the presence of such excellence, you have to make sure you capture everyone at their best.

As a Black photographer who specializes in taking photos of Black people, there is a duty to capture what I call "Black Essence." 

To me, Black Essence is capturing the different shades and skin tones, the swagger and the act of just being, whether showing joy and laughter or frustration and anger. 

Stepping up and creating safe spaces

It is important to create a safe space at the outset for the people I'm photographing. 

While my presence initially created doubt or insecurities for the BLSA attendees, I believe I was able to create a space for them to feel at peace and even confident. Offering a little bit of reassurance at times, outfit adjustments or a sneak peek of the photos goes a long way in creating a comfortable and safe space.

Doing the work to stand up against injustice, racial discrimination and fighting the fight for justice is always important — even though you might be the only one fighting. When I say fighting the fight, I mean stepping up and ensuring that spaces are safe for Black people now and also for those coming behind you. The most important message: we must rise above. 

Give and take

My conference experience wasn't one-sided. While I was there to take photos of the event, I also had the chance to listen while sitting in on some panels and lectures. 

I shared my work with the conference organizers and participants, and I left feeling anew with lessons to put to practice from their speakers.

I was reminded about the importance of knowing your worth when entering the workforce. I learned about maintaining and creating relationships be it with friends or business partners.

And also, knowing when to walk away from relationships when it doesn't help or benefit you or the greater good. Specifically, when talking about Black people who only serve to be bad fate actors instead of uplifting the  Black people. 

Overall, the conference was a good experience — a blessing — and one I will not forget for a long time.

See more of Isioma's photos and read more perspectives:

More than a summer law program: A community of support for Black youth

Being among Black lawyers who share my history and culture felt like coming home

I never dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but law school is exactly where I am meant to be

Allyship and representation: on being the only Black law student at my university

A Congolese-Canadian law student talks imposter syndrome and being enough

For more stories about the experiences of Black Canadians — from anti-Black racism to success stories within the Black community — check out Being Black in Canada, a CBC project Black Canadians can be proud of. You can read more stories here.