I remember growing up and hearing the word "ugly" a lot. "I'm ugly." "She ugly." "He ugly." I hated it then, and I hate it now. I go past physical beauty; I tell people they have a beautiful spirit and that is something different.
Jamel ShabazzI think that's what the war photography did for me. It showed me the human side of people and how certain circumstances can change people's lives.
Jamel ShabazzI think that photography has allowed me to have a voice. I used to stutter, and once I overcame that struggle, it felt good to tell people they were beautiful and special.
Jamel ShabazzThe images of war inspired me to create, to go to different situations and communities, to document the human side of people, to show a side that we don't see.
Jamel Shabazz