Not only has Hermoine carved out a successful career in front of the camera but her personal passion is photography, and she rarely misses an opportunity to snap evocative cultural images around the GCC.
Igniting a passion
For five years, Australian-born Hermoine was an anchor and journalist for Emirates News on Dubai One. Her charming manner and radiant smile made her a favourite with thousands of viewers. But when the studio lights shut down, Hermoine was assiduously planning the next phase of her career.
“I studied photography as part of my degree at university and since that moment have not put my camera down. I love documenting people’s faces as well as architecture and culture.”
“In 2010, I launched Faces Of The Middle East, a collection of photo-journalistic images from more than seven years of my work across the region. The book documents the various social and minority groups in the Arab world and proves that this part of the world is not a monolithic culture as many in the West mistakenly believe.”
Breaking down barriers
Faces Of The Middle East combines Hermoine’s trio of passions – photography, people and the Middle East. Her enthusiasm for the region shines through in every photo she takes.
“I believe an image can speak a thousand words, and I love capturing a positive side to the region as well as unravelling the common thread of humanity that unites us.”
“My love for the Middle East and my desire to document the region and share it with the world were the two main reasons I decided to stay in the UAE. The Arab world is such a misunderstood and misrepresented part of the globe and as a journalist I felt it was partly my responsibility to shed light on controversial issues in the region as well help the world understand the Middle East in a far less complicated way.”
Making a difference
A significant part of this outreach was to mount an exhibition in Dubai to display the photos from the book. So positive was the reaction that it is now an international travelling show that proudly highlights the strength of the Middle East.
“Faces Of The Middle East has been exhibited in the UK, USA and in Australia as well as across several locations in Dubai. I will be returning to the US in June for my third exhibition there. “
Spend a few minutes in Hermoine’s company and one can’t help but be inspired by her deep affection for her adopted country. Her soulful eyes spark with enthusiasm as she describes the value of her work.
“The impact we have had through the exhibition has been amazing! Understanding the region and helping people to reach out is the way to break down barriers. I hope my exhibitions will help to pave the road for further dialogue and peace in the region.”
Next step forward
Earlier this year, Hermoine took the bold step of leaving her comfortable job at Dubai Media Incorporated.
“I decided to launch my media consulting company Straight Street Media in 2012. Branching out as an entrepreneur was something I was planning to do for some time. After 5 wonderful years at Dubai TV, I felt it was time to spread my wings and establish my own company.”
No matter where those wings take Hermoine Macura, you can be assured there will always be a camera nearby to record every moment.
SPEED DATE
Favourite car:Vintage Esprit
Favourite food:Anything vegan
Favourite country visited: Ireland
Favourite performer: Fayrooz
Biggest personal inspiration: My faith in God
Personal motto: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and love your neighbour as yourself.”
