KAMYIIS MCLEAN
Kendra Dresser
Through a poetic lens, Kamyiis McLean explores Black identity in portrait photography. As a result, his work captures emotion and visual storytelling, reshaping contemporary art.
KAMYIIS MCLEAN
From Jamaica to New York, Kamyiis McLean carries stories of ancestry, rhythm and culture through his camera. His work celebrates Black identity, exploring its power, depth and softness.
Indeed, “I’m Kamalio McLean, also known as Kamyiis McLean… My work is rooted in the celebration of Black identity — the power, the depth and the softness within our community.”
SEEING THE SOUL IN PORTRAITURE. – Mirrors of Self-Recognition
Indeed, his portraits invite viewers to see themselves in a new light. Not only do they capture a face, but they also hold space for affirmation and pride. “My photographs are mirrors. They help people see themselves clearly, sometimes for the very first time.” McLean says
Furthermore, McLean creates work for those who have questioned their worth, reminding them that their Blackness is sacred.
Layers of Emotion
Each photograph carries intention and care. Additionally, the images convey resilience and vulnerability. “Each image I make is layered with emotion and intention. A visual language that speaks to unhealed wounds and transforms pain into pride.”
As a result, they linger in the mind, offering quiet reflection and a sense of strength.
STORYTELLING AS LEGACY – A Living Archive Kamyiis McLean
Photography becomes a record of life and history. Moreover, McLean often envisions the image before raising the camera.
“I often see the image before I create it. A feeling, a story or a reflection that insists on being told.” Consequently, his portraits connect past and present, turning moments into lasting memories.
Time Capsules of Truth
Each frame preserves culture while feeling immediate. In other words, “A photograph should hold weight. It should speak for generations.” Thus, the work balances history with vitality, giving every portrait timeless resonance.
THE LANGUAGE OF EMOTION – Blackness as Expression Kamyiis McLean
Identity and feeling guide his lens. Indeed, Blackness is his language, and emotion gives it voice. “When I photograph someone, I’m not simply capturing their appearance. I’m translating their essence.”
Therefore, each image becomes a conversation between subject and artist, intimate yet universal.
Connection as Creative Process
Observation and presence shape his work. Importantly, “My creative process always begins with connection. Listening, observing and allowing emotion to guide the story.” As a result, the work pulses with life and community.
FROM VISION TO TESTIMONY – Art as Healing
Kamyiis McLean hopes his work affirms and heals. “I want people to feel seen, feel healed and feel loved.” For example, one viewer could not face herself until reading his words.
Furthermore, Beauty is not something to chase. It is who you are. “My photographs should feel like a prayer. Something that meets you where you are and whispers, You are enough.”
A New Series, a Continuing Movement
“Through My Lens as a Black Photographer”, McLean explores process, emotion and truth. “It’s raw and intentional. A look behind the scenes that reveals the emotion and vulnerability behind every frame.”
Consequently, each image contributes to a growing legacy, preserving culture for future generations.
Finding Kamyiis McLean’s Work
Explore McLean on Instagram and TikTok @kamyiis. “You can also visit my website, where my prints and editorials are available. Each piece crafted with intention, faith and storytelling at its core.”
Additionally, explore more stories on creativity, culture, and visual storytelling by continuing below or visiting our homepage.
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Kendra Dresser is in Communications and Public Relations with a focus on how fashion, media, and culture shape the way we see the world and ourselves.
She’s interested in the connection between image and meaning: how a campaign, an outfit, or a trend can say something deeper about identity, mood, and the cultural moment.
She’s especially drawn to how Generation Z uses fashion and beauty to express individuality, often in bold, layered, and playful ways. She’s also curious about how social media continues to reshape storytelling, changing how we create, share, and connect through visual culture.
To Kendra, fashion is more than just style; it’s a language! One that reflects who we are, how we feel, and what we stand for. She’s committed to sustainability and believes fashion and culture should not only inspire but also respect the planet.
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