We’re always inspired by the photographers in our community, and Women’s History Month is the perfect time to highlight some of the incredible women shaping the industry. Whether they’re experimenting with film, pushing creative boundaries in portraiture, or capturing culture in a way only they can, these photographers bring fresh perspectives and undeniable talent to the table. Here are 10 women whose work you should have on your radar.
1. Kristen Wrzesniewski | IG | Website
A commercial and editorial photographer based in Denver, Kristen Wrzesniewski has a keen eye for striking black-and-white portraits. Her film work is defined by sharp detail, rich film grain, and masterful use of highlights and contrast. Each of her images carries a sense of drama and depth, making her a standout in the world of monochromatic portraiture.
2. Deidre Locklear | IG | Website
A filmmaker, photographer, and artist based in the Bay Area, Deidre Locklear brings an experimental spirit to film photography. She constantly pushes the boundaries of the medium, incorporating unique film stocks, double exposures, and creative lens filters to depict her subjects in a blend of abstraction and grounded realism. Her curiosity and collaborative approach have made her a sought-after creative partner, fostering a network of artists who share her passion for exploration.
3. Noa Chandler | IG | Website
Based in Metro Detroit, Noa Chandler has been shooting film since her youth, developing a deep appreciation for analog photography. Her work spans multiple mediums, from large-format film to cyanotypes and platinum prints, each piece reflecting her love for crafting imagined realities through photography. Her portraits carry an ethereal, timeless quality, showcasing a mastery of both historical and contemporary photographic techniques.
4. Ava Leigh Hartline | IG | Website
A Philadelphia-based brand, event, and portrait photographer, Ava Leigh Hartline has a talent for capturing the character of South Jersey and Philadelphia through a realist, Americana-inspired lens. Her grounded, eye-level approach brings an intimate feel to her work, celebrating everyday moments with authenticity. Whether she’s documenting city life or personal milestones, her photography reflects a deep connection to the communities she captures.
5. Iliana Garcia-Flores & The Flores Dynamic Duo | IG | Website
Based in Southern California, Iliana Garcia-Flores has spent the last 10 years capturing the world through her lens alongside her husband, Michael Their photography is a true labor of love, allowing them to create meaningful images together while sharing their artistic vision as a team. Whether documenting weddings, portraits, or everyday moments, the Flores Dynamic Duo brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for storytelling to every frame.
6. Astra Pentaxia | IG | Website
Currently based in Berlin, Astra Pentaxia is a visual artist navigating the intersection of memory, saturation, and dreamlike imagery. Her work is immersive, blending different creative practices to create evocative, layered compositions. She remains deeply involved in the art scene, moving fluidly between photography and other artistic disciplines to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
7. Wini Lao | IG | Website
A former engineer turned full-time photographer, Wini Lao has built an impressive career capturing lifestyle and still-life imagery. Based in New York City, she combines technical precision with a vibrant, joyful aesthetic that mirrors her upbeat personality. Her client roster includes brands like Essie, Lululemon, and Kinfield, and she has fostered a strong community of creatives and entrepreneurs within the industry.
8. Penny De Los Santos | IG | Website
Penny De Los Santos is a Mexican-American photographer and director whose work is rooted in cultural storytelling. With a career shaped by her time at National Geographic, she has traveled to over 40 countries, documenting traditions, food, and human connection. Her images capture the essence of her subjects with deep respect and an eye for history, making her one of the most compelling voices in documentary photography today.
9. Akilah Townsend | IG | Website
A self-taught photographer from the Southside of Chicago, Akilah Townsend’s work is deeply personal, exploring Black life in America, particularly through the lens of Black women. Her editorial and commercial photography has been featured by The New York Times, Nike, and Foot Locker, among others. She brings a sense of introspection and storytelling to every image, making her portfolio a celebration of identity, beauty, and resilience.
10. Emily April Allen | IG | Website
Based in Nashville, Emily April Allen is a queer photographer dedicated to expanding visibility and documenting community. Her portraits capture authenticity, fluidity, and resilience, inspired by her own experiences and the people around her. Through photography, she amplifies voices within the queer community, turning her lens toward stories that often go untold.
These photographers are just a handful of the women pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling today. Their work speaks for itself—whether through bold creative choices, technical mastery, or the way they capture real, unfiltered moments. If you’re not already following them, now’s the time to get inspired.
Interested in exploring more photography by talented and innovative perspectives, check out our blog on 12 Women Who Made Photographic History.