The Full Story
About
Our founder, Kai Lawson, spent countless hours wandering the streets of Los Angeles with her camera,longing to engage in conversation and exchange ideas, all while pondering, "Where are the Black women photographers in LA?" A friend jokingly remarked, "They're all in NYC!" Rather than waiting for a community to emerge, Kai took action to create one. What started as a spontaneous photo walk in March 2025 attracted an incredible turnout of enthusiastic women. This initial spark has since blossomed into a movement. Today, Black Girls Shoot Too (BGST) serves as a global creative hub where women of color photographers connect, collaborate, and showcase their talents.
Vision
Our space provides a sense of belonging, offering a platform for networking, education, mentorship, and collaboration for both established photographers and aspiring creators. These connections lead to increased visibility and professional opportunities across generations. Women of color photographers bring unique perspectives and stories that are often marginalized or overlooked. Here at BGST, our aim is to amplify these voices globally—ensuring that every story is told, every lens is valued, and the future of photography is as diverse as the world it captures.
Mission
Our mission is to cultivate a safe and inspiring environment where women of color and aspiring photographers are seen, supported, and empowered globally.