We had the good fortune of connecting with Cayla Lamar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cayla, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am from Decatur, Georgia and it’s a huge part of my business and overall creativity. Growing up I was able to meet different kinds of people who believed in different things, and I studied them. In a way the people in my community are my muses. Whether it’s the spiritual people at my local smoothie shop or admiring the array of fashion style in little 5 points.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a fashion and portrait photographer. My work explores gender, color, and African American Culture. I got to where I am with a lot of support, including my family, Black Women Photographers, and the creatives in my area. I’m definitely still growing and I believe I have a long way to go and it by no means has been easy but I’m grateful for everyone who I mentioned because they made the ride smoother. I want people to know that photography is art and I’m committed to telling stories that resonates with me and the people in my community.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take my friend to this gyro place in little five points across from bass lofts. They have the most authentic food atmosphere and it my favorite place to take people. I would also take them to downtown Decatur to go to Leons and to desert at Jennis.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out Polly Irungu. She is the founder of Black Women Photographers, and she has done so much for Black femme creators around the world. She puts together grants with big names like Nikon and many more. I love how she centers Black women and she’s changed the trajectory of career in the best way possible.

Website: https://caylalamar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cosmic.cayla/

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