Music Photographer Abrielle Williams Talks with Black Women Photographers

In today’s digitized era, the symbiotic relationship between music and photography are mutually dependent. Abrielle Williams is a music and events photographer interested in sparking conversation and merging the two disciplines through her photography.

Her portfolio is both illuminating and arresting, creating an atmosphere that propels viewers onto the cinematic journey of live concerts through their screens. Though she has worked on BTS sets with the likes of SiR and photographed artists like Saweetie, Young MA, and Brandy, the warmth of her palette strikes a presence that makes the biggest acts of music right seem familiar. 

For her love of traveling, Abrielle frequently travels between Accra, Ghana, and Washington, D.C. When we spoke to her she was currently in Accra in hopes that the change of scenery would inspire a different facet to her craft. 

What sparked your interest in photography? 

It wasn't until 2014 that I got my creative start. Before my dad bought me a DSLR, I was taking pictures on my iPhone of the clouds and nature. My dad and my step-father suggested that I should venture into portraiture. Initially, I hesitated because I don’t like to socialize but I had a change of heart when I became a frequent concertgoer. I equally like music and photography so I decided to try my hand at capturing events. I was able to sign up as a house photographer for DC's 9:30 Club and the rest is history! 

Where do you draw your inspiration? 

Music is my life. Anytime I hit a creative stump, I put on songs from the artists that I love. Closing my eyes and listening to music helps me envision what kind of mood to set with my subjects for photoshoots.

As cheesy it may sound, what also keeps me going is the fact that I'm able to wake up and live every single day. The fact that there are people and places that I haven't experienced yet motivates me. I really have a lust for life. Life is short and I want it all! 

What was the biggest lesson you learned this year and how did it change you?

I've definitely learned not to take things personally when in regards to working with people involved in this field. To really put out what you want to share, it’s important not to compare your journey or work to someone else's.

In particular, the biggest lesson I've learned this year is to work at my own pace. The majority of this year was spent in quarantine and in self-isolation as a result of the pandemic. I was scrolling through Instagram feeling like a failure because I hadn’t put out any work I thought people would like since my work is renowned for capturing artists. It dawned on me that I don't need to put unnecessary pressure on myself for the consumption of others. When I decide to post-work, I will -- but on my time because I do this for me.

What is the most rewarding part of your job as a photographer and what is the most challenging?

The most rewarding part is seeing people's initial reactions to my photography. Getting to witness people fall in love with themselves on camera even before I edit the photos is a priceless feeling. On the flip side, the most challenging part of being a photographer is most likely having to deal with the financial side of things when it comes to dealing with bigger entities, that's never fun and it's usually a hassle. 

You have photographed some of the hottest names in music. What is one of the biggest misconceptions about working with artists and what do you enjoy the most when working with artists? 

There are two big misconceptions. The first is that because you get hired to document an artist during their time, that means you know them personally. The second is if you take pictures of artist(s), then you're being paid a lot of money. Of course, there are times where both of those statements are true, however, that's not always the case.

One of the perks of the job is that I get to create memorable moments as a result of the work I do. I got to spend my birthday with D. Smoke and SiR's family. It was a Christmas party that I got invited to and the day just fell on my birthday so I ended up there eating and talking, and hanging out. It was really a moment I'll never forget.

Do you think social media can help break the barriers that gatekeep this profession? 

Unfortunately, most jobs are about connections but social media has definitely helped to remove the barriers. It's easy for people in the media and/or music industry to pull your Instagram, see what you’re about and decide whether to hire you. Through sharing resources on platforms like youtube, it’s also helped people learn more about photography and excel at it. From tips to job opportunities, people are constantly able to be in the loop when it comes to all things photography.

Now more than ever the photo world is becoming more diverse. I do believe that this is a white male-dominated industry so it's really refreshing to see black women and women of color venture into this field and break the monotony. 

When shooting live shows or on the sets of music videos, do you find yourself to be the only black woman BTS on set? 

I would say that I am mostly the only black woman BTS doing photography, but there are other black women working behind the scenes. Whether it's styling, PA, or doing production. I do see that there are more black women doing BTS work too for musicians whether it be photo or video, but I haven't come across any women on set just yet. I'm waiting on that day, to be honest.

What advice do you have for photographers who want to work with artists?

The advice I would give photographers is to set a budget, be confident about it, and don't be afraid to walk away from an opportunity if it doesn't align with you, your beliefs, and/or rate. Confidence is everything, and others will feel that energy too -- especially when you're hungry! You have to put yourself out there, even if you don't like to. Whenever I'm feeling low I turn to my friends Shay, Mésha, and Keva for support. I reach out to my mentor and my other photo friends too (shoutout to Makeda, Chynna, and Inari) for perspective. I always turn to God too.

Who are some of your favorite photographers? 

This is such a hard question because my favorites change like the weather. I really like my friend Makeda's work (@ohmakeda on Instagram), Bree (@exquisite_eye), Adrienne Raquel (@adrienneraquel) and I enjoy looking at Renell Medrano (@renellaice)’s work as well. Taylor, (@theroyaltmedia) is such a beast at videography! I feel like she needs way more recognition.

What are you hoping to explore with your photography in the near future?

I hope to get more into film -- I have a Pentax but I’m eyeing a medium format. I’m debating between the Mamiya RZ67, Mamiya 7, and one of the Yashica medium formats. While I'm in Ghana I'm hoping to get more into slight videography and portraiture. I want to be able to document everyday life as opposed to the curated lifestyle that we see on TV and social media. 

Keep up with Abrielle’s journey by following her on Instagram.