HIDDEN EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY HONORS BLACK WOMEN & WOMEN OF COLOR IN POWERFUL PHOTO SESSION

The creativity that has risen in Richmond since the murder of George Floyd has been astounding. Several times a week, I’ve been amazed by new displays of artistic expression: whether that be visual art, music, or photography. Richmond is discovering an artistic renaissance in the midst of civil unrest.

Last week, I ran across this series of photos from Hidden Exposure Photography (S/O the amazing Jaime Patterson), and I was taken aback by the concept and story being told. I reached out to Jaime to get more information about the session and was told, “The idea of the (photo) session came from looking at what America looks like in the wake of George Floyd’s death and the advent of the protests in Richmond, and throughout the nation. As a photographer, a black woman photographer, I’m always seeking to answer: What story I can tell with a single image?”

“When the protests started, I began to research the history of the civil rights movements and various civil rights demonstrations, and I noticed that many landmark moments started due to the actions of Black Women and Women of Color. I really wanted to find a way to express my love for Black Women, Women of Color, and our ancestors, and also to document this very rare time in our history,” said Jaime Patterson of Hidden Exposure Photography.

“I gathered some friends on a Sunday morning at 8 AM. I decided to have everyone involved wear white because I wanted them to stand out against the backdrop of the monument. I also wanted them to wear white because it balanced both strength and beauty. I included a small nod to the pandemic that we’re also going through, so we utilized masks as a form of double representation—of not only being aware and safe during these times but also as a means to show how Black Women and Women of Color will not be silenced.” 

“What stood out about my time at Marcus-David Peters Circle was the general vibe and mood of everyone there. We got there early so there wasn’t a large crowd, but over time more people showed up. It grew into a creative and calm space. There were people taking photos of us and their surroundings, and you could hear conversations throughout the circle. It was a joyous environment, and I was honestly surprised and thankful.“

Please follow Hidden Exposure Photography via their website and on social media @HiddenExposurePhotography