While there’s no shortage of Filipinas who look fantastic posing in front of the cameras, there are also plenty of Filipinas who take charge behind the lens. So when Canon Philippines released their latest lineup of brand ambassadors, the internet was puzzled: why weren’t there any women? In reaction to the uproar, the camera company is planning to honor “lady shooters”, but as photojournalist Ezra Acayan pointed out, they can still do a whole lot more to promote diversity.
So for now, let’s shine the light on these Filipina photographers who we think are more than worthy to be brand ambassadors (many of them already have been ambassadors, actually). You need to give them a follow ASAP!
Hannah Reyes Morales
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An award-winning photojournalist for National Geographic, Hannah puts the spotlight on complex and crucial issues that you may not often see on mainstream media. Her works, which she describes as “tenderness amidst adversity,” have been published in different outlets across the world, including The New York Times and Al Jazeera. Even luxury brand Dior got her as photographer for their Spring-Summer 2020 collection. See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Lyka Gonzalez
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A documentary filmmaker, photographer, and multimedia specialist, Lyka Gonzalez dabbles in all sorts of visual arts. Her thesis film Agos: the Manila Dream (2015) premiered at the 68th Festival de Cannes – Court Métrage. When she’s not behind the camera, she works as a representative for the Youth in the Creative Arts and Informal Sector at the United Nations Youth Advisory Board (UNYAB). See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Regine David
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Known for her intimate photographs showcasing vulnerability, Regine David has collaborated with artists from all around the world to create her evocative pieces. She is also a big advocate of queer visibility in the creative industry. Regine has worked with brands such as Balenciaga, Calvin Klein, and Uniqlo, while her works have been featured in publications like Grid Magazine, New York Magazine, and Nylon Japan. See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Shaira Luna
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Self-taught photographer Shaira Luna found her beginnings in event coverage before she entered fashion photography. Her whimsical, vintage-postcard-style photographs would make you feel like you’ve travelled in time with just one look. Her work often appears in publications like ABS-CBN, Rappler, and Esquire. See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Andrea Beldua
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Aside from her iconic pink bob, Andrea Beldua will catch your eye with her warm, dreamy photographs showcasing Filipina women at their best, even if it’s a little bit feisty. She has worked with local muses like Nadine Lustre, Kylie Versoza, and Sarah Lahbati, as well as international stars like Shay Mitchell. See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Inez Moro
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Inez Moro specializes in portraits that often feature a graceful, almost otherworldly quality to it. She also dabbles in illustration, which often manifests in her photography work, resulting in photographs that look like painting. Inez has worked with muses from all over the world, including Janine Gutierrez and Jess Connelly. See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
Xyza Cruz Bacani
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A second-generation domestic worker in Hong Kong, Xyza Cruz Bacani brought her life experiences to film, emphasizing “the intersection of labour migration and human rights” in her works. She is the recipient of several awards and recognitions, including Asia Society’s Asia 21 Young Leaders in 2018, Pulitzer Center grant, BBC’s 100 Women of the World in 2015, and Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia in 2016. And yes, Xyza is an actual brand ambassador (just of a different camera company: Fujifilm). Check out her book here or follow her on Instagram.
Charisma Lico
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Known for her youthful and feminine eye, Charisma Lico has become a crowd-favorite among local muses for portrait work in soft pastels or vivid hues. She apprenticed under talented photographers like Mark Nicdao and Jay Tablante, and she took what she learned and put her own twist to her new knowledge. You might recognize her work in different publications like Metro Magazine and Mega Magazine. She is also a brand ambassador — of Sony, this time! See more of her work here or follow her on Instagram.
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