Interview: The Great Big Photography World Podcast

I’m excited to share that I was recently interviewed on The Great Big Photography World podcast to discuss my humanitarian photography work.  

Perrin Adams was an amazing host and during the podcast encouraged me to discuss my journey as an international humanitarian photographer, my background in global health and veterinary medicine, and my process for using visual storytelling to drive awareness and change.

Members of a Womens Self-Help group in Bihar, India assemble to discuss opportunities for small business development in the community.

Members of a Womens Self-Help group in Bihar, India assemble to discuss opportunities for small business development in the community. Photograph: ©Steven Wade Adams, Bihar, India 2025

A Passion for Storytelling Through Photography

During the episode, I had the chance to reflect on how my path led me to humanitarian photography. My early academic and professional life was rooted in science—particularly in veterinary medicine and global health.

Over time, I realized that my passion for science and my dedication to social impact could merge through photography. I began using visual storytelling to highlight critical global issues—public health, climate resilience, social justice, and healthcare accessibility—working alongside NGOs and non-profits to bring these stories to a wider audience.

Humanity Photography and the Power of Visual Storytelling

A local health care worker performs growth checks on children in rural India where nutritional deficiencies remain a serious problem.

A local health care worker performs growth checks on children in rural India where nutritional deficiencies remain a serious problem. Photograph: ©Steven Wade Adams, Bihar, India 2025

In this conversation, I shared:

  • How I transitioned from veterinary medicine and global health in the pharmaceutical industry to humanitarian photography.

  • The role of visual storytelling in advocacy and social change.

  • Some of my most impactful photography assignments, including documenting public health initiatives in India, climate adaptation efforts in Ethiopia, and humanitarian aid projects in Uganda.

  • The ethical considerations and challenges that come with photographing communities in vulnerable situations.

  • The importance of strategic storytelling for non-profits, and how powerful imagery can engage donors, volunteers, and global audiences.

The Bottom Line

As I emphasised in my conversation with Perrin, photography is more than just capturing an image—it’s about telling a story that resonates, educates, and inspires action.

Whether I’m working in remote villages, urban healthcare clinics, or disaster relief zones, my goal is to create images that not only document reality but also drive meaningful change.

Through this podcast interview, I hope to have shared insights that will inspire other photographers and storytellers who are passionate about using their craft for good.

Young women carrying food in rural Uganda

Young women carrying food in rural Uganda. Photograph: ©Steven Wade Adams, Karamoja, Uganda, 2017.

Listen to the Episode

I invite you to tune in and hear the full conversation on The Great Big Photography World podcast. I hope this episode inspires you to see photography as a powerful tool for impact and change!

Feel free to reach out or connect with me on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about humanitarian photography and visual storytelling.

Finally, a huge thank you to Perrin and the podcast team for the opportunity to share my journey and work.

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Visual Storytelling Photography Workshop: Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, India