© 2024 Joanna Schaus | All Rights Reserved
joannaschaus@gmail.com
Biography
Joanna is a documentary and humanitarian photographer dedicated to women’s empowerment, social justice, and advocating for marginalized voices. Growing up in Afghanistan and Türkiye, she developed a deep admiration for Central Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, sparking her interest in migration and sociopolitical issues.
Joanna has collaborated with NGOs and non-profits, traveling to over 30 countries, including Palestine, Uganda, and around America, to document powerful stories. Her work, featured on Good Morning America and in various publications, includes partnerships with organizations like charity: water and World Relief.
She is passionate about ethical storytelling, and helping organizations and individuals tell stories that can bring lasting and positive change to society.
Member and Alumni of VII Foundation Community
The Purpose Behind My Work
Through countless encounters navigating language barriers, I’ve come to see photography as a bridge—a powerful connector of hearts and stories across divides. By truly listening to those whose journeys differ from our own, we uncover the truth that photography is more than just creating beautiful images. It becomes a testament to someone's story, and to their struggle. It captures vulnerability and tragedy, showcasing a hopeful and reckless love story.
This is the most endlessly beautiful thing to me.
Clients & Partnerships:
charity : water
The Collective Effect
World Relief
Interfaith Photovoice & Fetzer Institute
The International Association for Refugees
Border Perspective
The Hope Venture
Nations Media
Refugee Highway Partnership North America
Their Story is Our Story
Training & Certificates:
2024: CPR and AED Certified, The Red Cross
2024: International Women’s Media Foundation Newsroom Safety Across America Workshop Attendee.
2023: VII Academy Alumni 2023 Foundry Photojournalism Workshop with Maggie Steber
2023: Empower Women Media Training Fellow
2022: CAST-Field Security Course Certification, Concillium
2018: Risk Assessment and Mitigation Certification, Rethrival International
Features & Exhibitions:
2024: Frank Meo PROJECTIONS Selected Presenter
2023: Exhibition #WithRefugees: Understanding and Solidarity for those that flee, Taylor University
2021: Ekstasis Magazine Issue 8
2021: Resolute Magazine
2020: Photographic Virtual Border Experience Border Perspective
"She possesses excellent communication skills that would be a strong asset to any storytelling organization. I believe she is destined to become a leader in her field, and any journalistic program would be lucky to have her included in their ranks."
Sarah Wood, Executive Director, Their Story is Our Story
"Jo is a gift. Constantly curious, instantly building trust, and truly invested in the people she’s photographing. You can see the result of it in her work. She brings out the best in people!"
Tyler Riewer, Creative Director, charity : water
"Joanna uses her photos to capture life and tell stories in a dignified and beautiful way. In addition, even working across linguistic, cultural, and various other levels of differences, she maintains a deep sense of empathy, sensitivity, and desire to understand the story and tell it well."
Kelsey Briggs, The International Association for Refugees
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I commission you for a project/How much do you charge?
My rates are tailored to the specific needs and scope of each documentary project, with proposals typically starting at $500. For all requests, please reach out using this contact form or email me directly.
What type of stories or projects do you cover?
I primarily focus on humanitarian projects that center on the experiences of women and marginalized communities. My work aims to shed light on their resilience, as well as the trauma and abuse many face.
Do you photograph couples/weddings/events?
Yes, I do! I have a dedicated business specifically for this kind of photography to better serve the couples who reach out to me. Feel free to visit this link to inquire about my wedding photography services.
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صوت المرأة ثورة
Women's voice is a revolution