How does a photographer earn trust in places shaped by conflict, faith and history?
In this episode of How I See: The Leica Podcast, Louise Goldstone speaks with photographer Emily Garthwaite about curiosity, walking and the human connections behind her work.
Emily recounts how she first began photographing people as a teenager, her journey to Iraq during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, and the thousands of kilometres she walked through the Zagros Mountains. She discusses working with Yazidi communities, documenting faith and memory, and travelling with Sister Macrina through the landscapes of Sinjar.
The conversation also explores ethical photography, informed consent, women’s access to private spaces, and why some of the most important photographs are the ones you choose not to take. Emily shares her Leica approach—one camera, one lens—and explains why restriction, patience and returning to the same communities are central to her practice.
She also reflects on rejection, teamwork, photojournalism and her move into long-form documentary filmmaking.
Emily's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygarthwaite
Emily'S Website: https://www.emilygarthwaite.com/
What is How I See - The Leica Podcast?
How I See is the official Leica podcast series dedicated to the art, passion, and philosophy of photography.
Each episode features in-depth conversations between our hosts and inspiring guests like photographers, artists, filmmakers, or other creative minds, exploring what drives their creative vision and how photography shapes the way they see the world.