SOPHIE MIYA-SMITH
FA’AMALU - UMBRELLA
To Protect or Shield
This series encapsulates the womens body and in particular this Samoan woman's body, navigating her journey through the reclamation of her power.
Adorned with the traditional markings of her motherland, this woman embarked on her journey to uncovering her self-worth and reclaiming her power, but most importantly her physical being. Her body. Hers.
Many markings of the Samoan women's tatau, called the Malu are representative of their lineage, village, their spiritual journey and femininity.
Once disempowered by the misguided notions of passion and lust in western society, Crystal Vaega now embraces herself with love and worth. With understanding and courage. Unapologetic and transparent about her experience.
A Samoan proverb:
‘O tagata ‘uma e maua manuia, ‘ae e le o tagata ‘uma e maua fa’amanuiaga – Everyone receives blessings yet not everyone is blessed.
ABOUT SOPHIE
Sophie is a Kiwi-Japanese photographer whose work focuses on the connection of people and place.
Her style is derived from fashion and portraiture photography, exploring the balance between youthful ideologies and contemporary aesthetic. Splitting her time between studio and lifestyle work, her approach emphasizes a feeling of natural light to evoke a sense of candid expression and playful exploration.
Currently residing in New Zealand, Sophie splits her time between Raglan and Auckland.