Inspiration can come from many sources. However, powerful imagery has a unique ability to create cross-cultural and linguistic boundaries, spark the collective imagination, and move people to action worldwide. An image speaks a thousand words. The right image can make a resounding difference.
At Arete, we believe in the power of “solutions-focused” journalism — bringing stories from the world’s most severe crises to light, while illuminating the ways that the global community is working to overcome them, and the stories of human resilience and hope that often go untold.
Rooted in this philosophy, our storytellers capture the most inspiring narratives. With this positive approach to storytelling, we ensure that our stories stand out in a sea of problem-focused content.
In this month’s blog, Arete photographers share what they believe creates a truly inspiring image, along with examples that capture the essence of inspiration.
Mahad Said Dirie
Mahad Said Dirie is a documentary filmmaker, photographer, and editor based in Mogadishu, Somalia. He specialises in visual storytelling that captures authentic human experiences, focusing on sustainability and climate change. His work aims to create impactful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences and foster empathy.
“An inspiring image is one that makes people feel something. It tells a story without using words, showing real moments and emotions that anyone can understand. It captures a feeling that can touch people’s hearts, helping them connect with the story and feel close to the people or places in the image.”
“One of my most inspiring images is of a man standing alone on the beach in Barawe, facing away from the calm ocean and staring into the vast, empty land ahead. Instead of looking at the peaceful sea for comfort, he’s focused on the unknown in front of him.
The image tells a story of courage and strength. Most people turn to the ocean for peace, but this man chooses to look the other way, as if he is ready to face whatever challenges or mysteries lie ahead. It feels like he’s searching for something more profound, maybe his purpose, or answers to a question he’s carrying inside.
This photo inspires me because it shows quiet bravery, a reminder that true strength is found in leaving comfort behind and facing the unknown. To me, it’s a call to embrace the journey, even without a clear destination.”
Chrystel Raharison
Chrystel Raharison is a Malagasy photographer known for her contributions to various exhibitions and projects in Madagascar, as well as global organisations like UNICEF and Al Jazeera. Through her work, Raharison captures authentic human experiences and contributes to the visual storytelling landscape in Madagascar.
“An inspiring photo, for me, takes me back to the place where I took it. It gives me instant emotions and I know I will never forget it.”
“The image that inspires me to this day is this one that I took 10 years ago, of an old lady who sells corn. I remember that when I asked for a picture, she gave me her best smile, Malagasy people are known for their smiles. I think she represents us well.”
Brian Ongoro
Brian Ongoro is a Kenyan photojournalist based in Kisumu. He has told impactful stories across East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. His work has been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times, BBC, CNN, The Washington Post, Bloomberg, and The Guardian. Brian has collaborated with international organisations and NGOs, including UNICEF, World Vision, and Tearfund Canada.
“One image that I feel embodies inspiration is a photograph I took in flood-ravaged Ombaka village in Kisumu County, during a period when heavy rains displaced thousands in Kenya earlier this year.
The image shows three young individuals pushing a boat they had used to cross flooded land to cut napier grass on the other side, ensuring their cattle — trapped on a small island surrounded by floodwaters — are fed. The boat is labelled ‘Japur’, which is Luo for farmer.
This scene, to me, showed the resilience and resourcefulness of these young individuals who, despite the challenging circumstances they live in, show determination in caring for their animals. It was a powerful reminder of how communities adapt and persevere, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.”
Carina Bruwer
Carina Bruwer is a South African photographer celebrated for capturing authentic stories and changing perceptions. Her work has been featured in international publications, marketing campaigns, and social initiatives. Beyond photography, Carina is an accomplished musician, open-water swimmer, and social entrepreneur, bringing a unique perspective to her visual storytelling.
“An inspiring image does more than capture a subject, it conveys emotion, tells a story and establishes a connection — drawing the viewer into a powerful narrative. The effective use of composition lighting and leading lines guides the viewer’s eye to key elements, emphasising moments of resilience, vulnerability or joy. The subject’s expression is sincere and candid, embodying the true emotion behind the moment or the project. The image should evoke a feeling or prompt reflection, encouraging viewers to see the world — and themselves — in a new way. It’s the fusion of technical skill with emotional depth that transforms an ordinary photo into a source of inspiration.”
“One image I’ve taken that embodies inspiration is of a young violin player named Likho who is part of the Muzukidz program in South Africa. The photo captures Likho with her violin; her eyes shining brightly as she gazes into the distance against a backdrop of vibrant blue skies. The Muzukidz program offers intensive violin tuition to children from disadvantaged backgrounds providing them with hope, future opportunities, and a path to break the cycle of poverty that has affected generations. This image perfectly represents that promise, capturing the spark of possibility and determination in Likho’s expression. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that education and the arts can have on a young person’s life, offering them not just skills but a vision of a brighter future.”
Karam al-Masri
Karam al-Masri is a Syrian photographer and video journalist renowned for documenting the Syrian civil war, particularly in his hometown of Aleppo. His images have been published around the world, including by the Disasters Emergency Committee. His unwavering commitment to journalism was recognised in 2017 when he received the Knight International Journalism Award from the International Centre for Journalists.
“The never-ending Syrian tragedy can be summed up in this picture…
It tells a powerful story about the Syrians’ struggle for survival in the face of destruction. In the foreground, a woman represents humanity and strength. Even though she has lost everything, she stands tall, her presence both calm and strong. She appears deep in thought as she looks at the ruins around her, places that once were filled with laughter and life, now empty and silent.”
Elisa Oddone
Elisa Oddone is a freelance photojournalist based between Europe and the Middle East. Her work has been featured in prominent outlets such as NPR, Reuters, Al Jazeera, PBS, Time Magazine, Al Monitor, ANSA, Deutsche Welle, The Jordan Times, Venture Magazine, and EurActiv. Elisa’s reporting focuses on refugee issues, migration, workers’ rights, the environment, science, and the economy.
“An inspiring image is an image that conveys the truth of the moment shared — so real and authentic that it can be understood and received universally without any further mediation.”
Sara Escobar
Sara Escobar is a Mexican documentary photographer and filmmaker whose work focuses on identity, social justice, and human rights in Latin America. She has collaborated with various media outlets, including AJ+, National Geographic, MSNBC, and Mitu, as well as organisations like Greenpeace and the Commission of the Truth of the State of Guerrero.
“I believe what makes an inspiring image is the connection you build with people and the spaces you get to know through the camera. That gives the “soul” to a photograph and that is what creates a bridge between you, the story, and the public.”
“I feel super proud and inspired by the project we made independently in my collective, Tortugas al Viento, launched this year: Dawn arrives later here. We built a documentary that doesn’t have a traditional filmmaking and photographic narrative but consists of a platform that you can navigate while creating your own experience about Palo Alto — a cooperative built in the 1970s on a former sand mine. For over 50 years, Palo Alto has fought to protect its land against real estate harassment.
The platform has around 60 different short films, photo essays, and audio recordings about this important territory. The image I am sharing captures a paste-up resistance act that we made for launching this site. With the intention of giving the photos back to cooperative members by pasting them in public spaces, it also makes a political statement, as the buildings show the faces of people living on the land they want to invade.”
Photo contest: send us your most inspiring image
Arete is holding a photo contest, showcasing inspiring images. Submissions are open to all.
A shortlist will be selected to feature in an end-of-year slideshow on our blog and across social media. Those selected will also receive a free mentoring session with one of our photographers.
All entries must be submitted via email to info@aretestories.com by December 12th, 2024. Please attach your photo and include your full name, along with a short description detailing when the photo was taken, what or who was photographed, and why you believe it is inspiring.
