RAHAF YOUSSEF

Qamishlo-The word photography derives from the Greek words ‘photos’ meaning light and ‘graphein’ meaning “to write”. The world's first known photograph titled, “View from the Window at Le Gras,” was taken by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826 or 1827. In time, photography has developed and now everyone can take photos by using their smartphones.

“I feel myself where I need to be”

Young photographer Nalin Awali lives in the Qamishlo city of NE Syria. She began to take professional photographs five years ago. “Whenever I take a photo, I feel myself where I need to be,” says Nalin, who likes nature photography, but also likes taking photos of cities. “Photographing my city, especially its historic fabric has become my lifestyle after a while. I like taking photos of Qamishlo, other cities in Rojava, light and seasons,” she says.

She doesn’t put her signature on her photos

Nalin Awali doesn’t like putting her signature on the photos she takes. “I share the photos I took on my social media account. People like and share them. When they like or share them, I feel happy. I think that I should always take better photos, immortalize more things.”

“Women photographers have more passion”

Stating that photography should be done with love as much as it requires professional skills and effort, Nalin Awali said, “You should be creative but also love this profession. I believe that women photographers take photos from a different perspective. I believe that women photographers have more passion.” Emphasizing that everyone who carries a camera cannot be called a photographer, Nalin Awali said that because photography is an art, “Everyone who wants to be a photographer should know the difference.”

She wants to set up a photography studio

Stating that she loves the camera when she first took it in her hand, Nalin said, “At first, I didn’t know how to use it but I learned it in time. I want to set up a photography studio to teach women how to take photos. Taking photos has become my lifestyle. Each photo has a story, you can write a novel by looking at it. I want to take photos telling stories.”

Diana: A photographer is a collector who captures unforgettable moments

22-year-old Diana Mohammed began to take photos four years ago. Diana, who takes photos with love and passion, says, “A photographer is a collector who captures unforgettable moments.” She believes that photos immortalize the moments and strengthen social bonds. She also shares the photos she took on her social media account to be used by everyone. “In my photos, I try to reflect the reality of war as well. When my photos are shared on social media, the conditions we live in are heard all around the world,” she says.

Her family supports her

Diana Mohammed has participated in many photograph exhibitions until now. “I received support from my family and friends in my career and their support encourages me to take more photos.”