Leroy Hamilton, known by many as PhotoHam, is a name that resonates deeply within the artistic community of South Central Los Angeles. A photographer whose work is as much about storytelling as it is about preserving the raw, authentic beauty of everyday life, Hamilton’s contributions to both the local scene and the wider visual world are nothing short of profound. Hamilton’s upcoming exhibit, The Story of Us, is a series of select images that will be displayed at the Henry P. Rio Bridge Gallery at LA City Hall in honor of Black History Month starting February 18th.
“When we first started preparations for The Story of US, I literally only meant to wet my feet—just share a small part of this photography journey. But this moment is heavy,” said Hamilton. “Every reference to DEI is code for anti-Blackness. So I have been going deep into the archives, ‘cause folk need to know who WE are. The prelude exhibit is coming to LA City Hall. The followup will capture so much more of the story. And it will be beautifully curated by my friend Larry Earl.”
A Visual Archivist of South Central
Hamilton’s work transcends the boundaries of simple portraiture and street photography. As a staple in the South Central Los Angeles community, his lens captures a nuanced narrative of resilience, culture, and identity. Far from being just a passive observer, Hamilton’s approach is one rooted in deep engagement with the subjects and the environment he documents. Hamilton has always been keenly aware of the intersection between photography and social activism. His images act as a counterpoint to the stereotypical depictions of urban communities, presenting them instead as vibrant and multifaceted, with stories that demand to be heard.
A Unique Perspective: The Legacy of PhotoHam
Hamilton’s moniker, PhotoHam, carries with it a sense of both playfulness as he uplifts joy and celebration. His work provides a poignant look at the manifested dreams and aspirations of those often overlooked by mainstream media. His use of color, light, and composition often add a cinematic quality to his images, making each photograph feel like a scene from a larger, untold story.
The Technical Mastery Behind the Lens
While Hamilton’s work is undeniably impactful on a cultural level, his technical expertise cannot be overlooked. Over the years, he has honed his skills in a variety of photographic styles, from candid street photography to studio portraiture. Whether shooting with a DSLR, a vintage film camera, or even on a smartphone, Hamilton’s mastery of light, composition, and timing consistently shines through. His ability to evoke emotion and narrative depth speaks to his connection to his community. Whether it’s frame by frame, or through impactful videos with his “Behind The Lens” series, Leroy always elevates the story of the people.
Behind the Lens with Leroy Hamilton – MLK 50 (Click Here)
A Legacy in the Making
As Hamilton’s work continues to evolve, so does his influence. He has literally become the James Vander Zee of South Central. His photographs are held in private collections, exhibited in galleries, and shared across social media platforms. But perhaps the most powerful testament to his legacy lies in the way his images are embedded within the very fabric of South Central Los Angeles itself. Through his lens, the community’s history, beauty, and struggle are forever preserved.
One thing is clear for Leroy Hamilton, being a photographer is not just about making art—it’s about documenting history; especially South Central Los Angeles’s history. He is a griot of South LA, a living archivist whose stories weave together our struggles, triumphs, rhythms and our blues to tell the story of us.