Photography in Palestine is a powerful tool for showing resilience and resistance against the Israeli occupation. Although men have mostly dominated this field, more women photographers are emerging. These women offer unique views on Palestinian life and struggles. This article highlights the important work of both historical and modern female photographers in Palestine.

The historical legacy of Karima Aboud

Photography has long helped preserve Palestinian heritage and resistance. Karima Aboud is a key figure who set the stage for future female photographers in the region. Her work not only captured everyday life but also served as a form of resistance against the occupation.

Karima Aboud: Palestine’s first female photographer

Karima Aboud is known as Palestine’s first female photographer. She started her work in Nazareth in the 1920s. Karima took over 9,000 photos that show life in Palestinian towns and villages. Her pictures capture the diversity of society, the roles of women, and daily customs. Despite efforts by Israeli authorities to erase these records, many of her photos are still kept in cultural centers and galleries, preserving Palestinian heritage.

Karima was passionate about photography from a young age. She learned the craft through practice and dedication. Her studio became a hub for the local community, where people came to have their portraits taken and to document important events. Karima’s keen eye for detail allowed her to capture the essence of Palestinian life with authenticity and grace. Her work included not only portraits but also landscapes and scenes of daily activities, providing a comprehensive visual record of the time.

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Preserving heritage through photography

Karima used her camera as a way to resist. Over time, social conservatism and the harsh realities of the Israeli occupation made it harder for women to enter photography. The field was seen as dominated by men. However, Karima’s work inspired future generations. She showed that photography could preserve Palestinian identity and history through visual storytelling.

Karima faced many challenges in her career. As the only woman photographer of her time, she had to overcome societal expectations and limited access to resources. Despite these obstacles, she continued to produce high-quality work that documented the lives and struggles of her people. Her photographs became a symbol of Palestinian resilience and determination. Karima’s legacy is not only in her images but also in her role as a trailblazer for women in a male-dominated field. Her influence can be seen in the work of contemporary female photographers who continue to build on her foundation, using photography to tell their stories and fight for their rights.

Additionally, Karima's work played a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of Palestine. By documenting traditional clothing, ceremonies, and daily life, she ensured that future generations would have a visual record of their history. Her photographs are invaluable for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in understanding the social fabric of Palestinian society during a turbulent period. Karima Aboud's dedication to her craft and her community has left an enduring impact on Palestinian photography and beyond.

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Contemporary female photographers in Gaza

Today, female photographers in Gaza continue to show resilience and creativity. They face many challenges, including limited resources and difficult working conditions. Despite these obstacles, they remain dedicated to capturing and sharing their unique stories. Their commitment ensures that the experiences of Palestinians are seen and heard around the world.
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Samar Abu Elouf: capturing Gaza’s reality

Samar Abu Elouf has been photographing life in Gaza for over 13 years. She captures moments of hope amid the despair of airstrikes and bombings. Her photos show everyday life—children playing, women succeeding, youth innovations, and fishermen at sea. Samar’s work gives a full picture of both the struggles and the strength of the Palestinian people.

Samar started without her own camera. She borrowed cameras from friends and shared her photos on Facebook. Her hard work paid off when she won a photography competition and bought her first camera. Despite facing criticism as one of the first female photographers in a conservative society, Samar kept going. She balances her roles as a mother and a photographer, even during tough times in Gaza. Her ability to create makeshift protective gear earned her 17 international awards and a respected place in Gaza’s photography community.

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Mariam Abu Daqqa and Duaa Al-Baz: Stories of resilience

Mariam Abu Daqqa, known as “the Adventurer,” travels across Gaza to document key events. Her photos show the devastation of Israeli assaults, especially on children and civilian homes. Mariam’s work challenges the occupation’s narrative. She combines beauty with news reporting, carefully managing risks to capture important stories.

Duaa Al-Baz is another inspiring photographer. She moved from a career in health administration to photography despite her family's initial opposition. Driven by her desire to document life under occupation, Duaa’s photos highlight Israeli violations from a female perspective. She aims to hold the occupation accountable through international human rights platforms.

Mariam and Duaa face many dangers while photographing conflict zones. They work under difficult conditions but remain committed to their mission. Their dedication helps bring attention to the realities of Gaza, showing the world what life is truly like under occupation. Both women inspire others to pursue photography as a means of storytelling and resistance.

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Female photographers in Palestine bring unique perspectives to their work. They capture both everyday moments and significant events, showing the strength and resilience of the Palestinian people. Through their lenses, these women highlight stories of hope and resistance. Their photos challenge stereotypes and provide a deeper understanding of life under occupation. By preserving cultural heritage and documenting important changes, they ensure that Palestinian history is remembered. These photographers inspire others to use art as a way to express their experiences and advocate for their community. Their dedication helps share Palestine’s true story with the world, fostering empathy and awareness.

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*All photos in this article were provided by the author.

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