Farida Mahdy: Egyptian photographer drawn to bold imagery and unconventional beauty

Farida Mahdy is an Egyptian photographer, visual artist, and assistant curator based in Cairo. A graduate of Applied Arts, she grew up surrounded by photography through her family's interest in the medium. She initially pursued fashion before choosing to study photography and cinema.

Her work is driven by an interest in portraying women as bold and confident, alongside an attraction to unconventional and sometimes distorted imagery. She enjoys creating photographs that surprise viewers and challenge their expectations.

Mahdy previously served as head of exhibitions and has participated in numerous local exhibitions since 2021. Her photography has been featured in The Guardian, Marie Claire Italia, PhotoVogue, and LensCulture.

How did you get started in photography?

Photography has been part of my life since childhood because my family loves photography. I grew up surrounded by photographs and cameras. I initially went to college to study fashion, but eventually chose to study photography and cinema.

How would you describe yourself?

I may look chaotic, but I’m extremely organised and detail-oriented when it comes to work. I’m a bit of a dictator… Ah yes, and a diva. And excuse my poker face when you first meet me, but I swear I’m the funniest person you will ever meet!

What are the main themes that inspire your photography?

My biggest inspiration comes from women. I am inspired by empowering women and portraying them as bold and fierce as they want to be. I am also drawn to things that are different or distorted. I love to shock people when they see my work for the first time. That is what defines my work the most.

What moment in your career are you most proud of?

Having my work published in The Guardian! Being the first Egyptian to take part in its Women Behind the Lens series is one of my proudest moments. I am also proud of my experience handling photography exhibitions in Egypt alongside amazing artists and curators.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

My biggest challenge, both as a photographer and as a person, has been accepting that things do not always go according to plan. Whenever I plan something, I tend to aim for a level of perfection that does not exist. But I have learnt that sometimes unexpected changes become the best part of a project.

How's the photography and art scene in Egypt?

In recent years, I have come across many photographers whose work I admire for its originality. At the same time, a lot of the work feels repetitive. Original work tends to stand out, but it takes patience for people to discover it and for it to reach a wider audience.

What do you think of the 54Ruum platform?

I love what the platform is doing. I have seen many features of fellow photographers on social media and loved Ruum Spotlight, but I did not realise how much more the platform offered until I read about it. I see it as different and supportive of artists.