About

Michele Zousmer is a visionary fine art photographer who uses her camera as a powerful instrument to amplify the voices of individuals and communities often living in the shadows of society. Dedicated to dispelling prejudice, her work investigates the lives of marginalized groups and the ways they navigate emotional, physical, and mental hardships, capturing moments that resonate with life’s most profound experiences — love, loss, vulnerability, and resilience.

Through her lens, Michele unveils the unspoken connections that bind us all. She has an extraordinary gift for immortalizing fleeting instances of grace and beauty that persist even in the face of adversity. Her photographs move beyond visual artistry to reveal the emotions and narratives often overlooked by the casual observer, creating images that serve as vessels of empathy, curiosity, and hope.

Across her global journeys, Michele has met individuals from diverse cultures and landscapes, listening deeply to their stories and embracing their intimate moments. The profound trust her subjects extend is a testament to her ability to cultivate genuine connection — allowing the soul of her images to emerge as a poignant reflection of our shared humanity.

Michele’s photography is not only storytelling but also advocacy. Each frame offers dignity, empowerment, and the possibility of healing. She believes that while our external appearances may differ, our inner essence unites us all. Through her images, she illuminates the resilience of the human spirit and the threads of connection that weave us together.

ABOUT

My mind, my eyes, and my heart have been opened by my experiences. My life has been forever changed. I hope my work inspires others to feel we all matter and to care more profoundly. Engaging in the world and becoming open to different cultures and traditions allows for more conversation on diversity and equality. Photographs hold the power to connect people and create understanding. This is why I do what I do. – Michele Zousmer

LOCAL / NATIONAL

Photoville 2024 - '1 In 6' part of collaboration
Jewish Family Services - 'Voices Of Our City Choir'
Jewish Family Services - Guaranteed Basic Income Program
Kitchens for Good – Equipping people labeled as “unemployable” to launch meaningful careers
Family Justice Center – Domestic Violence Survivors/Human Trafficking
Shyne San Diego – ‘Seen’ – Human Trafficking Survivors
Jail Guitar Doors – Donovan State Prison
Art, Conflict Resolution and Community Engagement Project
Genesis at the Crossroads – Academy for Global Leadership – Peace Photojournalism
Sun and Moon Vision Productions
Tariq Khamisa Foundation
Operation Reinvent – San Diego Military Women
Westcare Custody to Community Transitional Reeentry Program
Voices of Our City Choir
Welcome Home Ministries
Shoah Foundation – Institute of Visual History – University of Southern California
Stand With Us
International Rescue Committee
Project Concern International
The Mission Continues
I Support Vets
Patriotic Hearts
FreshStart Surgical
San Diego J.C.C. – Davka
Casa de Amparo
Angels Foster Family Network
Computer 2 San Diego Kids
PAWS – Pets Are Wonderful Support
Wreaths Across America – Miramar National Cemetery
Women Peacemakers – Institute of Peace and Justice, University of San Diego
WorldLink, University of San Diego – Youth Town Meeting – Institute of Peace and Justice
Clinton Global Initiative – University San Diego – Foodbank/The Mission Continues
SHE – Strong, Healthy and Empowered