Meet Mellz photography: the boss lady, mother of two and founder of U.K.'s Black Female Photographers Group (UKFTOG). With a deep passion for photography and an unwavering faith in God, Mellz has built an inspiring community that celebrates Black female photographers.
In honour of Black History Month, in the USA and Canada, I wanted to highlight the unity that she has created in the U.K. photography scene. I was particularly excited to interview her because UKBFTOG has impacted my life in such a positive way. Through this platform, I achieved my dream of becoming a celebrity portrait photographer. I wanted to highlight the importance of community, collaboration, and representation. Black people make up around 3% of the U.K.'s population, so seeing Black female professional photographers, who have been published, run their own workshops, speak at conventions, own photography studios, and work with incredible clients is naturally inspiring and incredibly motivating.
Of course, success doesn't come without putting in the work. I haven't just sat back, waiting for opportunities to come my way, I've made sure to stay consistent, show up for others, and use the platform to showcase my work.
I hope this interview inspires you to see that, whether you're in the photography field or another industry, with community you can achieve anything. With community, you can have a safe haven and with community you can be held accountable!
Mellz specialises in newborn, maternity and family portraits. Her Instagram feed is filled with heart-warming images of cute babies, capturing the most intimate and adorable moments. One image, in particular, stood out to me so much, it was so captivating that it stopped me in my tracks. It's definitely an image that could easily be plastered everywhere, it's the perfect campaign for a kids advertisement. She's definitely the person you need to go to if you have a newborn or little kids and her prices reflect the quality.
Kaptured by KaGe: What's your favourite image and can you tell us about the story behind the image?
Mellz: This portrait was the first one I took in my new studio, and it’s incredibly special to me. The space was everything I had dreamed of, but I found myself shooting in an environment I wasn’t used to. In my old studio, I had my flow, but now I had to relearn it. As they say, you grow when you’re uncomfortable, and I definitely felt that discomfort because I wanted to ensure I could deliver. During the shoot, anxiety tried to creep in, but I paused, said a prayer, and asked God to guide me—to help me overcome my fear so I could create something beautiful for my client. This portrait will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me that no matter what, I’ve got this. Push through. Everything I’ve learned over the years has prepared me for moments like this.
Kaptured by KaGe: In such a fast paced industry, it's easier to overlook your achievements. I believe it's important to take a moment to celebrate them. What was your greatest achievement in 2024 ?
Mellz: Aww, there were so many! But if I had to pick, three moments that really stand out. First, securing my new studio space. The second, being invited to San Francisco to visit Adobe’s head office for a photography summit. Not only was I spotlighted while I was there, but I was also asked to speak, it was such an incredible honour! And finally speaking at the V&A as part of the Shining Lights Symposium -SHINING LIGHTS: BLACK WOMEN PHOTOGRAPHERS IN 1980S-90S BRITAIN, where I reflected on whether the industry has truly changed for us.
UKBFTOG
This image was taken at UKBFTOG'S 5th Anniversary, where I was honoured with a certificate for outstanding contributions. I’m in the middle holding my certificate, with Mellz at the far right in all black.Kaptured by KaGe: As a member of UKBFTOG, and knowing that some of the community will be reading this, what steps can we take to strengthen our community and create more opportunities?
Mellz: The community is nothing without people participating. One major step, I feel, is for us to not be afraid to talk about what we do. It’s often seen as boasting, and we’re conditioned to either not enjoy the moment, move on quickly, or stay silent because we fear someone might take our ideas. The problem with this is that we don’t share the stories that could inspire and help others. We are a part of so many people’s journeys, but we need to go through those experiences, talk about them, and share them. That encourages growth, allows others to learn, and creates even more opportunities for everyone.
Kaptured by KaGe: What has been the most challenging part of managing UKBFTOG ?
Mellz: I would say managing different personalities and expectations can be challenging, but ultimately, I’ve found myself stepping into a leadership role without even realising it. At times, it can feel like a lot to navigate, but I always remind myself of my “why” and the purpose behind the journey with UKBFTOG. This community plays such an important role in supporting so many people on their paths, and being a part of that is something truly precious and incredibly motivating.
Personal Reflections
Kaptured by KaGe: What makes you happy, when you're feeling down ?
Mellz: I would say family time. I love our cousin link-ups, where all our kids can play together, and we as adults take time to be present and strengthen our bonds. It’s just as important for us as adults as it is for the kids. I also enjoy watching movies or series and listening to music.
Kaptured by KaGe:
Mellz: A HUGE role. Without Him, nothing would be possible. Everything I have started has been through the lessons I have been put through. When I was in university, I struggled with dyslexia. I only found out a year ago that I had it, and it made sense of a lot of things. But one thing I used to say was, “I’m not smart enough to go to university because of it.” God sent me an angel at university—the best dyslexia tutor I could have asked for. She helped me apply for jobs, improved my essays from a D- to an A-, and taught me how I learn, read, and write. She showed me how to break things down, and that understanding has helped me throughout my entire journey. Our meeting was not an accident. God made our paths cross because I don’t think I would be where I am today without her.
Kaptured by KaGe: What's a Quote that represents your journey or outlook on life ?
Mellz: Living in your Purpose
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