In Just Me and Allah, fashion photographer Samra Habib takes portraits of queer muslim Canadians. The project originally began on tumblr, but has since grown into a multi-gallery art exhibit showing for World Pride in Toronto this month. The stylish shots are a combination of street style and more direct shoots.
Habib was inspired by Toronto's flourishing queer jewish community, and grew curious about muslims. More playful than somber, Just Me and Allah tells stories and results in "a meaningful dialogue around Islam, sexuality and gender issues," as Habib told Vice Canada. The photography is also intended to change perceptions of queer muslims, as they are typically portrayed as struggling in popular culture and documentary film. The subjects range in their faith from being more secular to praying five times daily.
Queer Muslim Photography
Samra Habib's 'Just Me and Allah' Photographic Project Captures Canadians
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1. Queer Muslim Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating more inclusive representation of marginalized communities in photography.
2. Multi-gallery Art Exhibits - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Expanding the reach of art exhibits through multiple galleries to showcase diverse perspectives.
3. Changing Perceptions of Queer Muslims - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Using photography as a tool to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating more diverse models and stories in fashion photography to reflect the real world.
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3. Documentary Film - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Diversifying narratives in documentary films to portray the experiences of marginalized communities authentically.