HENAN HARİT

Morocco-19-year-old Moroccan photographer Asmaa Amjdud participated in an international photography competition in London and was awarded the best and youngest photographer of the year 2021. We spoke to her about her love of photography and life story.

She took her camera wherever she went

Asmaa Amjdud has been interested in photography since she was five years old. “I have been interested in photography since my childhood. My father is also a photographer. He taught me how to take photos. When my father bought a camera for me, I jumped for joy. I took my camera wherever I went. My father encouraged me to take photos when he saw my skills,” she told us.

She opened her own photography studio

Asmaa attended photography courses to improve her skills in photography.

“I joined the Agadir International Fashion Week. I was the youngest photographer and I took photos of models. I took very good photos. So I decided to open my own photography studio. Some models and their local organizers offered me to take their photos at the Agadir International Fashion Week,” she said.

The administration of the Agadir International Fashion Week contacted her after seeing her photos. “They asked me to join an international photography competition held in London. I joined the competition. I felt confident but didn't think I would be awarded. I couldn’t attend the competition due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Photographers from Britain, Argentina, France, Spain, and other countries participated in the competition. I was happy to be able to join a competition attended by experienced photographers,” she told us.

Asmaa Amjdud was awarded the best and youngest photographer of the year 2021. “I cannot tell how I was very excited at the awards night. I was very happy to be awarded,” said Asmaa Amjdud, who faced some offending words from the people around her. She was told, “Your camera is bigger than you”. “But I prove myself,” she said.

Call on women

Esmaa Amjdud has taken photos at celebrations such as wedding and birthday celebrations. She wants to improve herself in photography. “I always dream of taking photos and I realize my dream. Women should believe in themselves and follow their dreams.”