Michele Zousmer is an American humanitarian photographer whose work explores the lives of people and communities often marginalised by society. Through sustained relationships and attentive listening, she creates photographs that address prejudice, vulnerability, resilience and human dignity.
Her practice combines documentary storytelling with advocacy, seeking moments of connection and grace within difficult circumstances. Her projects have involved Irish Traveller communities, people experiencing homelessness, survivors of violence and other individuals whose experiences are frequently overlooked. An alumna of VII Academy in Arles, she has collaborated with a range of social and humanitarian organisations.
Her project MIS[S]UNDERSTOOD examines the central role of women within the Irish Traveller community. Built through an intimate and respectful approach, it challenges stereotypes and foregrounds the women’s strength and individuality.
The project won the TPD Best Author 2025 Edilimpianti Award, after being selected by Matt Black for the Gazes on Existence Special Prize, and was shown in a solo exhibition at L’Angolo di Rocco. At Trieste Photo Days 2026, Zousmer presents Holding On at the Sartorio Museum.
