As a black woman, authenticity, marginalized communities, and representation aren’t just trendy terms to me – they are the cornerstone of everything I do. In today’s world, where diversity and inclusion are rightly in the spotlight, it’s imperative for brands to not only talk the talk or walk the walk but to STAND ON BUSINESS! That’s why I want to take a moment to delve into why these values are not just important but non-negotiable for me and my brand.
Authenticity is Key
Authenticity is more than just a marketing strategy; it’s a commitment to being genuine, transparent, and true to oneself. As a black woman navigating the social media landscape, I understand the power of authenticity in creating real connections. My journey, experiences, and perspectives shape the content I create and the strategies I implement. By staying true to myself, I aim to inspire others to do the same and foster a community built on trust and mutual respect. 🫱🏿🫲🏾
Empowering Marginalized Communities
Marginalized communities, including people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and differently-abled persons, deserve to be heard, seen and represented. As a member of the BIPOC community, I recognize the importance of amplifying voices that have historically been silenced or overlooked. Through my work, I strive to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to share their stories. We can build a more compassionate society by advocating diversity and celebrating differences.
Representation Matters
People want to see themselves reflected in the brands they support because it validates their experiences and fosters a sense of belonging. I am committed to showcasing diverse narratives and perspectives across all platforms. Whether featuring BIPOC-owned businesses, highlighting cultural traditions, or sharing stories of resilience, representation is at the heart of what I do.
Represent The People
With that being said, most stock photography and video are whitewashed, especially if you are looking for free options or something specific (ex: black same-sex couple getting married).
Your visuals should represent the people that you are speaking to. My ideal clients consist of women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ business owners. Finding images of women may be simple, but BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals not so much. So…I have been working on something special for you all. 🤗
I’ve compiled a list of resources so you can find images and videos (paid and free) that represent the people you are speaking to. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I enjoyed building it!
BIPOC
- https://www.blackillustrations.com/ ($)
https://tonl.co/ ($)
https://www.pocstock.com/ ($)
https://nappy.co
http://Pixistock.com ($) - https://createherstock.com/ ($)
https://www.pexels.com/search/black%20people/ - https://picnoi.com
- https://unsplash.com/s/photos/black-people
- https://ukblacktech.com/stock-photos/
- https://jopwell.pixieset.com/thejopwellcollection/
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/wocintechchat/
- https://www.honeysocial.co ($)
- https://www.rawpixel.com/search/black%20people?page=1&path=_topics&sort=curated
LGBTQIA+
- https://affecttheverb.com/collection/#lgbtq
- https://www.pexels.com/search/lgbt/
- https://www.pexels.com/search/Pride/
- https://www.pexels.com/search/transgender/
- https://genderspectrum.vice.com/
- https://www.shopify.com/stock-photos/photos/search?q=queer&button=
- https://www.shopify.com/stock-photos/photos/search?q=lgbtq&button=
- https://www.shopify.com/stock-photos/photos/search?q=gay&button=
- https://unsplash.com/s/photos/pride
- https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/lgbtq.html?sortBy=relevant
Body Size Diversity
- Plus Sized People – https://unsplash.com/@canweallgo
- Body Size Diversity – https://bodyliberationphotos.com/body-liberation-stock-body-fat-positive-diverse-photos/ ($)
- https://www.pexels.com/search/plus%20size/
- https://canweallgo.com/plus-size-stock-photos/plus-size-stock-photos-home/
Disability Inclusive
- Disability Inclusive – https://affecttheverb.com/collection/
- Disability Inclusive – https://disabilityin.org/resource/disability-stock-photography/
- Disability Inclusive – https://www.pexels.com/search/disability/
- Disability Inclusive – https://www.disabilityimages.com/ ($)
Reminders on Image Usage:
- Please ensure that you thoroughly check and adhere to the licensing, rules of use, and attribution requirements for images sourced from stock photography websites. Remember that even images from the same website may have different restrictions.
- It’s important to be mindful and respectful of the context in which you use these images.
At Creative Gravity®, I believe true connection happens when people feel seen, heard, and understood. That’s why I offer a safe space that prioritizes authenticity, embraces diversity, and celebrates the richness of human experiences. Whether you’re a business owner looking to reach new audiences or an individual seeking a community where you can truly belong, I invite you to join me on this journey. Authenticity, marginalized communities, and representation are not just ideals to strive for – they are the guiding principles that shape everything I do at Creative Gravity®.
By embracing diversity, celebrating authenticity, and amplifying underrepresented voices, we can create a more inclusive digital landscape for us all. Thank you for being a part of our journey towards positive change!✊🏾
Make sure to follow Creativity Gravity on Instagram. Looking for a more personalized direction when it comes to your social media? Set up a FREE discovery call today and see how Creative Gravity can support you!
