Photography is a powerful medium for storytelling, and these five Indigenous photographers are making their mark by capturing moments that celebrate culture, community, and identity.
Their work highlights the strength and resilience of Indigenous people while pushing creative boundaries in their respective fields.
Mer and Badu (Torres Strait Islands) and Yidinji (Gordonvale, QLD) man.
Lewis James Bin Doraho's journey into photography started from a personal interest in documenting events, landscapes, and his people.
Entirely self-taught, he recognised a gap in the representation of Torres Strait Islander people in mainstream travel photography.
"I felt like there was an under-representation of our mob in a positive light when travel photographers displayed their work," he said.
"I felt like there was a gap I could fill in that regard."
One of his biggest career highlights has been using his skills to document and share stories from the Torres Strait.
"If I was to name my top two highlights, they would be the AIDA - Igliyawa Torres Strait Islander doctors trip to the Torres Strait and the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival in 2018," he said.
In 2024, he transitioned to working full-time for himself, and in 2025, he aims to challenge himself further.
"2025, I'm going to stress test my business and figure out the limits of my capacity as a full-time solo operator and father of soon-to-be three young kids."
Jingili woman (Newcastle Waters, Elliot, NT)
For Natalya Kariotis, photography has always been an outlet for artistic expression and storytelling.
"I have always felt the need for a creative outlet, a way to express myself, tell stories, and share my ideas in unique ways," she said.
"Photography allows me to do that without words—it offers a language of light, colour, and composition."
Her work has introduced her to inspiring people, and capturing authentic moments is a key part of her creative process.
"Through my lens, I have met incredible people and have been able to capture beautiful moments that will last a lifetime," she said.
In 2025, Natalya plans to refine her craft further.
"My plans for 2025 are to continue improving my photography while also capturing the beauty and significance of our culture."
Noongar (Perth, WA)
Cole Baxter's path into photography took a unique turn.
Initially interested in modelling, he eventually found greater fulfillment behind the camera.
"I had big dreams of becoming a model," he said.
"But there wasn't the career out of it that I wanted, so I transitioned to taking photos."
He honed his skills by photographing friends and his community, eventually working with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations.
"I get to work almost exclusively with mob, mostly Noongars, but Blackfellas in general, championing storytelling," he said.
Among his career highlights, working with Clothing the Gaps on a community campaign was a standout moment.
"We put out a community call for a shoot, and hundreds of people got involved," he said.
"We ended up selecting 37 Blackfella models for a big 13-hour shoot day."
For 2025, he is preparing for his first solo exhibition, which will include a sculptural piece.
"I'm creating a statue for that as well," he said.
"It's something I'm really looking forward to."
Wakka Wakka / Kabi Kabi man (QLD).
Daniel "Wombat" Fewquandie describes photography as his way of expressing how he sees the world.
Over time, his work has shifted towards documenting his people and preserving cultural moments for future generations.
"I feel I'm carrying my photography to capture and document our people for the next generations to see and carry on culture in the future," he said.
His portfolio includes high-profile events such as the Lavonne Bobongie Awards, the 2023 National NAIDOC Ball, and NRL Indigenous rounds with the Brisbane Broncos.
"My highlights include the 2023 NRL Indigenous Round with the Broncos and the 2024 NRL Indigenous All Stars game in Townsville," he said.
For 2025, Daniel is set to cover the NRL Indigenous All Stars game in Parramatta and continue building his photographic presence in sports and cultural events.
Wiradjuri, Gamilaraay, Yuwaalaraay woman (NSW).
Marley Morgan's photography is deeply rooted in storytelling, covering everything from cultural moments to fashion and celebration.
"I use photography to tell stories," she said.
"My work is a visual celebration of inclusion—a reminder that the world is a beautiful place because we're all different."
While she appreciates the recognition her work has received, she values the opportunity to collaborate with communities.
"I'm thankful for the publication features, but the most rewarding experiences come from being invited into various communities and supporting the work of those leading positive change."
Her focus for 2025 is to push for greater Indigenous representation in fashion photography.
"I aim to see an Indigenous photographer's work grace the cover of Vogue and other mainstream fashion outlets," she said.
"Mob are heavily underrepresented and under-booked in this industry, and I'm passionate about changing that."
These five photographers, not to mention a plethora of others, are shaping the visual landscape of Indigenous storytelling, each bringing a unique perspective to their craft.
As 2025 unfolds, their work will continue to document, inspire, and celebrate the strength and diversity of Indigenous communities across Australia