Bismillah.
Amir Abdul-Shakur, known in the creative realm as "Amir The Photographer," is a San Francisco-based visionary who has carved his niche in the photography world with a distinct focus on Black joy, street photography, and portraiture. Born with an innate curiosity and an eye for beauty, Amir embarked on his photography journey in 2018 during a local parade in Oakland. It was there that he discovered his passion for capturing moments that transcend time, encapsulating the vibrancy and richness of the human experience.
Images shot by Nancy Abdul-Shakur
Oakland School for the Arts Vocal Rush performance of All Good People featuring original photography by (©Amir the Photographer).
Alongside his passion for photography, Amir harbors a deep affection for positive hip-hop music. During his inaugural visit to Paris in 2013, he collaborated with the renowned French emcee Kohndo to record "Vise Le Ciel" (Touch The Sky). Check it out!
Since that moment, Amir has dedicated himself to showcasing the multifaceted narratives of Black life and celebrating the resilience and spirit of his community. His lens serves as a conduit for storytelling, illuminating the nuances of everyday life and amplifying voices that are often overlooked and marginalized. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Amir's work serves as a testament to the power of representation and the beauty found within the African Diaspora.
Amir's portfolio boasts a diverse range of projects and collaborations, with his work being featured on esteemed platforms such as MTV and Good Morning America. He has also lent his creative vision to renowned publications including 7x7 magazine, El Tecolote, KQED Arts and Die Zeit (Germany), further solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the world of photography.
Additionally, Amir has contributed his talents to impactful initiatives like When We Vote!, Black Men Smile, Kristi Yamaguci’s Always Dream, East Bay Photo Collective, Joyce Gordon Gallery, Citizen M Hotels, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, The East Oakland Collective, SpotHero, SF Zine Fest, Horizons Unlimited of San Francisco, Mindful Life Project, Playworks, City of Oakland Bike Plan utilizing his artistry to inspire social change and promote civic engagement.
Through his lens, Amir endeavors to challenge perceptions, evoke emotion, and spark meaningful dialogue. Whether capturing the jubilant energy of a bustling street corner or the quiet moments of introspection, his photography transcends boundaries, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with the shared humanity that unites us all. As he continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of photography, Amir remains steadfast in his mission to uplift, empower, and inspire through the transformative power of imagery.
Image Shot by Nancy Abdul-Shakur
The many faces of Amir The Photographer
Shot by Derrick Freske for Citizen M campaign.