About the Magazine
Our Mission
Our Mission
Black Is publishes the stories and the work of Black photographers from around the world, because one experience does not speak for all. We are dedicated to creating a platform to showcase Black photographers whose work speaks to the diversity of our communities and ourselves. The magazine will act as a place of discussion and an archival platform, keeping a database of all the Black photographers we interview/share the work of.
We believe that it’s important for there to be an existing, ongoing publication that caters to Black photographers and what they have to say/show when it comes to their work and other topics of discussion that relate to our relationship with photography as Black people. We aim to include those of the African diaspora that are of Black culture, in Black culture, and support Black culture globally. The online platform will also act as an educational resource for those who don’t have access to information/education related to photography.
About the Founder
Lia J. Latty is an emerging photographer and founder of Black Is Magazine, based in Baltimore, MD, by way of Miami, FL. A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art (BFA, Photography), Lia’s work focuses on empowering marginalized communities through intimate portraiture. She uses lighting and color theory to expand the representation of Black skin and Black bodies in contemporary visual culture, creating images that initiate dialogue around identity, race, and collective voice.
Her photographs have been exhibited in Baltimore, New York City, Washington, D.C., and Miami, including at Photoville, Cereus Art at NYC Culture Club, CultureHaus Miami during Art Basel, and The Village-Union Market. Lia has been invited to speak at institutions such as Arizona State University and MICA, and her editorial and curatorial voice has been shaped by past roles at AARP, Aperture, and PRIZM Art Fair. She has served as a juror and portfolio reviewer for respected photography platforms including Photolucida’s Critical Mass and the New England Portfolio Review.
Lia is a recipient of the Women Photograph Project Grant and the Fred Lazarus Leadership for Social Change Award. Her platform, Black Is Magazine, amplifies the stories and work of Black photographers globally, challenging singular narratives and cultivating a more expansive archive of Black visual expression.
Our Patrons
Thank you to our Patrons who believe in and continue to support Black Is!
- Yemazen Sellassie
- LaToya Hobbs
- Ian Duffy
Become a Patron
Black Is is currently run by a soloprenuer. By supporting the founder, you are directly supporting the website management costs. Every dollar helps Black Is grow, so our community can have access to resources and information that will benefit us.
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