We recently announced the winner & runners-up for our second grant in partnership with the Black Women Photographers community! The goal of this $2,500 grant is to help one photographer that is part of both Black Women Photographers and Flickr further their photography practice. As part of their grant application, participants were asked to share a photo that aligns with the theme, “Light in Motion”.
Meet the recipient of the grant, Genesis Falls, and read on to learn more about the winning photo!
1. Please introduce yourself. Who are you? What do you do? How long have you been into photography?
My name is Genesis Falls. Some people call me Geno which has been a nickname that’s stuck with me since high school. I’m a black/white film portrait photographer and have been for the past 2-3 years.
2. In one sentence, please describe what you captured in this shot.
I captured pure innocent fun being had.
3. Why did you select this photo to share?
I felt as if this showcases not only my love for photography, but shows my ability to capture a moment.
4. What style of photography would you describe this as, and do you typically take photographs in this style?
I honestly don’t know how I would describe the style. I usually lean more into portrait work, but if I had to put a title, I would say fun in action lol.
5. When and where was this photo taken?
This was taken in Chicago, Il at Millennium Park.
6. Was anyone with you when you took this photo?
No I was actually by myself.
7. What equipment did you use?
I used a medium format film camera.
8. What drew you to take this photo?
It was just the energy. Being an adult we sometimes lose sight of that child like vibe. So just seeing these kids enjoying the moment in the water really drew me to taking my time and taking the photo.
9. How many attempts did it take to get this shot? How long did it take you to get one that you were satisfied with?
Geez…….. I’ll just say it took awhile because with film you never actually know the outcome until after you’re done. I say I spent at least 4 rolls of film too make sure I got the shot I was looking for.
10. Did you edit this photo?
I truly took my time with this edit. I wanted to make sure the details shined through without becoming too muddy.
11. What encouraged you to share this photo online and with others?
I made a huge goal for myself this year to truly branch out and share my passion with the world. I want others to see and experience my work and maybe feel something.
12. Did you learn anything in the process of taking, editing, or sharing this photo?
I learned to take my time. I sometimes feel like I have to rush through things, but the process of making this photo really showed me to slow down.
13. Do you remember what you had for breakfast (or lunch or dinner) the day you took this photo?
Lmao that’s a good question….probably some pancakes and of course some coffee.
14. What would you like people to take away from this photo?
Seize the moment. Don’t let life slip you by, but learn to appreciate the small things.
15. Is there any feedback that you’d like to get on this shot?
I’m always open to constructive feedback. Sometimes it can help you grow and learn something new.
16. How can anyone reading this support your work?
You can support my work by sharing it. I want it to reach the masses and maybe just maybe be able to create change and inspire someone else.
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/199066659@N05/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geno_tatted/
Genesis Falls (she/her) is a contemporary portrait photographer who lives and works in Chicago, Illinois. She uses her love for black/white film to demonstrate feelings and emotion through her lens – capturing people at some of their purest moments.