



Q&A with Amanda Akokhia: London’s Prominent Photographer Redefining Beauty through Visible Differences
Q&A with Amanda Akokhia: London’s Prominent Photographer Redefining Beauty through Visible Differences
Q&A with Amanda Akokhia: London’s Prominent Photographer Redefining Beauty through Visible Differences
Q&A with Amanda Akokhia: London’s Prominent Photographer Redefining Beauty through Visible Differences
Photographers have the unique ability to challenge societal norms and redefine the perception of beauty in individuals with visible differences, including those with alopecia. By capturing the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of individuals with alopecia, photographers humanise the condition and challenge preconceived notions. Their work fosters empathy and understanding and assists in educating society about the realities of living with alopecia. Photography has the power to inspire change on a larger scale. When photographers challenge societal beauty standards and celebrate visible differences, their work has a ripple effect. It encourages individuals to question their own biases and perceptions of beauty, fostering a more inclusive and accepting society. Through exhibitions, social media, and publications, photographers can reach a wide audience and create a lasting impact.
In the bustling city of London, amidst the glamour and creativity that permeate its streets, there exists a photographer whose work transcends mere images and captures the essence of beauty in its purest form. Amanda London’s most sought-after photographer and creative director, has been on a mission to celebrate and embrace women with alopecia, capturing their inner strength and beauty through her lens. She uses her lens to capture the essence and stories of her subjects, challenging societal norms and celebrating the diversity of human appearance. She understands that she has the power to bring out the beauty that lies beyond conventional standards. Amanda believes that her work is instrumental in changing the narrative around alopecia and encourages acceptance and appreciation for all visible differences.

In a recent Q&A session with AM’, award-winning and renowned photographer Amanda Akokhia shared her motivations and insights into her innovative photography that celebrates differences. She shed light on the power of embracing visible differences and redefining conventional standards of beauty. In the interview with Amanda, we look at how photographers can have a transformative effect on how society views beauty by highlighting the beauty inherent in visible differences and the experiences of those who live with alopecia.
AM: Describe yourself, Amanda Akokhia. What is your job?
Amanda: I am a British-Nigerian living in London, my name is Amanda Akokhia. Nature, reading, and philosophy are some of my favourite things, and I am a creative director and beauty-fashion photographer. My studio, Green Studios London, is located in Kensington and Chelsea in London.
AM: Did you pursue other careers before becoming a photographer?
Amanda: I have a law degree, and I spent a year working for solicitors in Manchester after graduation before deciding to leave my job to pursue my dream of being a full-time photographer in London.

AM: How would you describe your journey as a photographer who embraces visible differences?
Amanda: It has been an incredible journey. I have always been an advocate for diversity and always reflected this in my work. I firmly believe that everyone is uniquely beautiful and deserves to feel beautiful and confident, regardless of appearance, and my work is a reflection and celebration of our beautiful differences. Society often perpetuates narrow beauty standards, leaving many individuals feeling marginalised and unseen. I use my photography to celebrate the unique features and stories of people who may not fit into these conventional ideals.

AM: What motivates you to include models with obvious differences in your photos, and how do you manage to do so?
Amanda: My inspiration for working with models with visible differences comes from my little brother, who has disabilities. I want a world where he is recognised and valued as a part of society. I realised that there is a lack of representation of models with visible differences and disabilities in the beauty and fashion industry. This led me to organise an exhibition focused on representation. For my work to be more inclusive, I include models with noticeable differences using the same photographic technique I would use for a typical advertising campaign. To give the disabled and communities of visible differences the same opportunities and respect as others, the exhibition aimed to challenge editors and brands to reevaluate the standards and norms that the industry supports. Working with amazing models who flaunt their differences and show strength while rejecting unrealistic beauty standards has been an honour for me. I think there should be no limitations on beauty.

AM: You have been the creative force behind some of the most amazing campaigns for many well-known brands. Could you tell us which brands these are and why you/they chose to collaborate with them?
Amanda: I have been fortunate to work with some amazing brands, including YouTube, Harpers Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Makeup Revolution, and most recently Pantene. I believe they chose to work with me because creatives within the industry and clients who I worked with regularly recommend my services and like my services. I also share a lot of my work on social media, which gives my work greater visibility, and brands see this.
AM: What role do you believe photographers have in changing society’s perception of beauty? How can they help?
Amanda: Photographers have a significant role to play in creating my awareness to change society’s perception of beauty by showcasing diversity and inclusion in their portfolios. Everyone is beautiful and unique and should be able to see themselves in beauty and fashion editorials. Building trust and creating a safe space for people with visible differences is crucial. I spend time getting to know my clients in the studio, listening to their stories, and understanding their experiences, and the feedback I get is that it helps. I am able to authentically portray their beauty and capture their true essence as a result.

AM: What advice do you have for aspiring photographers who want to use their art to challenge societal norms?
Amanda: My advice would be to stay true to your vision and never be afraid to push boundaries. Use your art as a platform to amplify voices that are often unheard and challenge the status quo. Remember that every individual has a unique story to tell, and it is your responsibility as a photographer to capture and share those stories authentically.
AM: How have you used your photography to support charitable causes?
Amanda: I constantly use my photos to promote worthy causes. I have worked with Breast Cancer UK, the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic, Models of Diversity Charity, Changing Faces, and most recently with Sickle Cell UK. Likewise, I am now doing an interview with Alopecia Magazine UK for Hair Heals Organisation CIC, I am all for giving back to the community.
Q: Can you offer any words of inspiration to the readers?

My words of inspiration to AM’ readers would be to be kind to yourself and remember that you’re beautiful and unique, and don’t be influenced by unrealistic standards pushed to us by the media and society.”
– Amanda Akokhia
Amanda Akokhia’s photography is a powerful testament to the fact that beauty knows no boundaries. We all have a role to play in changing the portrayals seen in the media. Photographers who focus on alopecia provide a platform for individuals to share their stories and experiences, but they also send a strong message to influential stakeholders in the publishing, print, and editorial sectors about the potential for people with visible differences to appear on front covers. Photographers like Amanda encourage people to embrace their individual beauty and promote a more inclusive society by giving a voice to the alopecia community and empowering those who live with the condition.
By defying social norms and embracing visible differences, Amanda is redefining beauty through her work. By capturing the essence and stories of her subjects, Amanda aims to inspire a more inclusive and accepting society. Her dedication to showcasing the unique beauty found in individuals who may not fit traditional ideals is truly commendable. Amanda’s work serves as a reminder that true beauty lies in embracing and celebrating our differences.
AM: Amanda Let us take a light-hearted moment to conclude this interview. What is your party trick?
Amanda: (😂) Yes, I can beatbox… Haha!