Khoja highlights respect and beauty in cultural photography

February 01, 2026 / 10:28 PM

Sharjah 24: At the 10th Xposure International Photography Festival, Saudi photographer Tariq Khoja highlighted the importance of approaching the cultures and communities that photographers capture with respect and understanding. He believes that photographers play a crucial role in sharing images of humanity and culture with the world. Each photographer brings their own unique background, perspective, and heritage to their work, which shapes how they portray the people and places they photograph.

Khoja stressed that photography is not just about showing the tough realities or negative aspects of life. Instead, he encouraged photographers to find and showcase the beauty even in the most challenging situations. His goal is to present a complete view that reflects both the human spirit and the essence of the place.

He conveyed that artists should aim to present an honest, thoughtful representation of their cultures, helping to convey a visual message that captures artistic and cultural identities. This, he believes, can foster better understanding and harmony among different peoples.

Khoja also pointed out that photography can build bridges between societies when done with authenticity and care. He believes that it should not be used to criticize or misrepresent, but to highlight the shared values and beauty that connect us all.

In conclusion, Khoja emphasized the significance of art festivals like Xposure, which offer valuable opportunities for photographers from around the globe to engage in dialogue and share experiences. These gatherings enhance our awareness of visual storytelling and underscore that photography carries deep cultural and human significance that extends far beyond the images we see.