By Jessica Bethel

We Come to the Water by V Lynne Smith 

An inspirational and explorative journey through photos. Smith takes her readers through a self-healing experience through compelling images of Martha’s Vineyard. As a landscape photographer and writer, she welcomes us into her world through beautiful scenic images with an emphasis on self-love and growth.

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @vlynneslenz

Website: vlynneslenz.com

I Am More Than My Hair by Alyscia Cunningham

Women are taught that hair is rooted in their identity. I Am More Than My Hair combats that stereotype by showcasing women battling alopecia, cancer, traction alopecia. Each portrait is paired alongside an essay walking us through each woman’s journey. Cunningham is intentional about empowering women through visual storytelling. 

Link to buy here.

Twitter: @Alyscia_C

Website: alyscia.com

The Self Publication Volumes I & II by Nitashia Johnson

Seeking to end harsh stereotypes associated with Black men and women, Johnson pairs stunning portraits and essay’s to uplift readers. Additionally, “to analyze the role of media representations'' Carefully crafted, each essay and photo takes you on a voyage to understand each person photographed. Every portrait was photographed intentionally and allows you to connect with that person. 

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @nitashiajohnson

Website: nitashiajohnson.com

Tones by Cozy 

Representing the underrepresented and promoting racial/gender equality through powerful portraits. Infusing passion and purpose in each image, Cozy is on a mission to show Black culture in a raw and positive light. Combating the constant misrepresentation of Black culture in the industry.

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @cozyylens

Website: cozylens.com

“Please Say The M” by Jada Imani M

A culmination of images of artists in the DMV area photographed over the last 3 years. Jada Imani M uses her unique colorful and distorted style to create jaw-dropping visuals of “Black people in which they normally would not be seen.”  In this book, you will witness connection and passion in each photo. 

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @jadaimanim

Website: jadaimanim.com

Through My Lens by Mahaneela

Allowing us into her world, Mahaneela presents a collection of new and archival work that explores “themes of diasporic connection and identity.” Each visual is a recount of her travels and combines her unique perspective to showcase black and brown joy in a bold way. 

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @mahaneela.jpg

Website: mahaneela.com

Our Own Selves by Nadine Ijewere

Marrying identity and individual beauty, Ijewere presents “dazzling color, dreamlike backgrounds, and a fierce gaze” in this body of work. Not only exploring her Nigerian and Jamaican roots, but she also uncovers her identity growing up in East London. She covers untraditional subjects and brings a unique perspective to each photograph. As the first Black woman photographer to land a Vogue cover, Ijewere shares many of her timeless and breathtaking pieces. 

Link to buy here.

Instagram: @nadineijewere

Website: nadineijewere.co.uk