Meet Hawa Maya Bangura: Photograher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hawa Maya Bangura and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hawa Maya, how do you think about risk?
As an artist and business owner, you will always take risks either big or small. Starting a business is a risk on its own. I realized that If I wanted to grow as an artist I have to take risks. That included trying new lighting techniques, collaborating with another artist, switching up my editing techniques, and more! There is no way around it! By taking risks, rather than thinking of “what if” you move into the realm of knowing. It’s all about trial and error. You have to learn what works for you and what doesn’t.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a photograpHER, I always try to find unique ways of capturing the essence of my client’s personalities. My proudest moment was when I was apart of an art show competition in Baltimore, MD. It was my first time entering an art competition. I was against some AMAZING artist from different backgrounds. I was so nervous, I had a hard time explaining to the judges what my art was about. However, they loved it, and I received 3rd place! Since then I continued to push myself to grow and become a better photographer and artist. Today I am still creating. I’ve learned to find inspiration in every situation. I want the world to know that Hawa Maya is a heard working and dedicated photographer.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in the DMV. There is so much to do! If my friend was visiting me for a week the first thing we would do is go to my favorite restaurant for brunch at Busboys & poets. I love their brunch food! For the next few days, we will do many random activities. Outdoors activities would include going to sandy point to spend the day at the beach and hiking at great falls national park. Other activities would include going to various museums & exhibitions in DC such as the National Gallery of Art. We’ll Visit the national harbor and the national zoo. Some of my favorite restaurants that we’ll visit are Uncle Julio’s and Nando’s, The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mother, Renee Bangura is my biggest fan! She recognized my talents and nurtured them as I grew up. I have never started a venture without first consulting her for wisdom and advice. I would also like to give a shoutout to my boyfriend, Joshua Butts. He continues to encourage me to the best artist I can be. He’s helped me plan photoshoots, set up art shows, think of creative ideas, and has been my shoulder to cry on.

Website: www.hawamaya.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/HawaMayaPhotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HawaMayaPhotography/?ref=py_c

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4VNh1vv3riFYMaE2Y_AYfw