Ami Vitale: How to Make Your Photography Matter

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In this episode of the SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast, host Angela Nicholson speaks with the inspirational Ami Vitale, a renowned photojournalist, Nikon ambassador and passionate conservation storyteller.

Ami’s images are known for their emotional power, from the moving final moments of Sudan, the last male Northern White Rhino, to her long-term work in China documenting panda conservation. Her commitment to telling meaningful stories has taken her to conflict zones and conservation areas across the globe, always with a deep respect for the communities and wildlife she photographs.

In this conversation, Ami shares how photography became her tool for connection and transformation. She opens up about the challenges she faced breaking into the industry, the weight of ethical storytelling and the persistence needed to tell stories that matter. She discusses the importance of building trust with subjects, allowing stories to evolve and how empathy lies at the heart of every frame she captures.

Listeners will also hear her thoughts on how to create impact through photography, the danger of AI-generated images, the growing problem of over-tourism and the importance of lifting up the next generation of photographers.

Whether you are an aspiring photojournalist or someone who uses photography to explore the world, Ami’s journey offers encouragement, wisdom and practical advice.

Takeaways

•  Building trust and genuine relationships is key to impactful storytelling
• It's important to allow stories to evolve rather than arrive with fixed ideas
• Photography can connect people, build empathy and inspire change
• Long-term projects offer deeper meaning and insight
• Confidence and persistence are vital when navigating a creative career
• Find purpose and ethical grounding in your photographic work

Connect with Ami
Website
Instagram

Nikon
This episode is supported by Nikon, a world-leading provider of imaging products and services. Nikon’s Regional Director, Charlotte Kemsley says: “At Nikon we pride ourselves on empowering photographers to create images and videos that inspire. We are honoured to be partnering with SheClicks and share their ambition of increasing the visibility of women in all aspects of photography.”

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