She is capturing moments destined to live in the history books forever.

Cheriss May approaches photography with intention, heart, and a deep sense of responsibility. Every time she lifts her camera, she transforms fleeting instants into enduring visual records—testaments to power, presence, resilience, and possibility. Her work does more than document events; it safeguards history and amplifies the voices of people who are too often overlooked. As an adjunct professor at Howard University, the institution that shaped her own artistic foundation, she is committed to nurturing the next generation of visual storytellers and ensuring they have the skills, perspective, and confidence to help shape the historical narrative. (Source: Howard University Magazine)

But May’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom. As a member of the White House Press Pool, she regularly stands at the center of pivotal national moments, photographing leaders, activists, and citizens whose decisions and actions influence the world. Her presence in these spaces also marks a meaningful shift—one where representation behind the camera is just as important as representation in front of it. (Source: Associated Press)

“What I gravitate toward are those in-between moments—stories where I connect with people who may not get the attention they deserve,” she says. “Even though I photograph iconic historical figures, it’s always about making things real.” (Source: Because of Them We Can)

Her lens is a mirror, reflecting back the strength, dignity, and brilliance people carry within themselves. This truth was especially evident during her project with the NAACP, where she created a powerful portrait series highlighting the courage and presence behind every voice. One moment from that experience left a lifelong mark on her.

A Black woman working at the convention center stopped by her portrait setup—curious, but shy. “Oh, I don’t take good pictures,” she told May. Still, May encouraged her to return during her break. When she did, May positioned her, pressed the shutter, and showed her the resulting image.

“She just started crying,” May recalls. “She said, ‘I’ve never seen myself like that.’ And I told her, ‘That’s you. That’s who you are. You need to realize how powerful you are.’” (Source: Because of Them We Can)

These intimate exchanges fuel May’s purpose. To her, photography is not simply visual artistry—it is affirmation. It is a way to remind people of their worth and to ensure they see themselves reflected with clarity, strength, and truth.

May’s gift for capturing presence extends to legendary figures as well. Among those she has photographed is Dr. Maya Angelou. During Angelou’s final public appearance, May documented the moment with quiet reverence, fully aware of the historical weight in the room. (Source: TIME Magazine)

May remembers when Angelou looked at her and asked, “Baby, what’s your name?” She walked closer, and Angelou gently took her hand. “I told her my name,” May says. “And she said, ‘It is my pleasure and my honor to meet you, Cheriss May.’ Then she threw her head back and laughed.” (Source: TIME Magazine)

Whether shared with a cultural icon or an everyday woman reintroducing herself to her own beauty, these moments form the heart of May’s work. She is determined to ensure that the right people—those who shape communities, challenge injustice, and carry untold stories—are seen and remembered.

May hopes that people will feel her work a century from now, not merely view it. “I want them to look at my images and know that what they thought was impossible is, in fact, possible,” she says. “To see themselves in ways they never imagined and know they can do anything.” (Source: Associated Press)

This mission drives her every day: capturing power, preserving legacy, and ensuring that today’s stories become undeniable evidence of what is possible tomorrow.