Sharif Hamza

Bio

Sharif is a dynamic New York-based photographer and director renowned for his compelling work across print, digital, and film media. His artistic journey took a significant leap in 2010 with the striking October cover for Dazed and Confused, which showcased his signature vibrant compositions and masterful manipulation of light and movement. Since then, he has earned acclaim for his captivating portraits of prominent figures, including Halle Bailey for Vogue, Samuel L. Jackson for Mr. Porter, and Michelle Yeoh for Elle. His collaborations extend to esteemed publications such as GQ, i-D, and Perfect Magazine, alongside impactful advertising campaigns for global brands like Tiffany & Co., Clinique, and Nike. At his core, Sharif identifies as a portrait photographer embedded in the fashion world. His work often transcends traditional boundaries, as exemplified by his powerful 2018 series for The New Yorker, which featured intimate portraits of young gun owners—showcasing his commitment to raw, journalistic storytelling. Driven by a profound fascination with faces and the narratives they embody, Sharif's imagery frequently uplifts and empowers men and women of color. With a heartfelt mission to represent his daughters' mixed heritage, he passionately emphasizes the backgrounds and cultures of those often marginalized. “I have a duty to make them seen by everyone in the most beautiful way,” he asserts. In every project, whether within the realm of fashion or journalism, Sharif's unwavering focus remains on the human experience and the stories that connect us all.