Photo Credit: Tori Mumtaz (@torimumtaz)

Hi, I’m Jama, a Somali-American cinematographer based in Seattle, Washington. My journey into filmmaking began in journalism, where I witnessed how documentary film can bridge distant worlds and shine a light on stories that often remain unseen. This experience introduced me to inspiring individuals, immersed me in different cultures, and shaped my understanding of visual storytelling as a powerful tool for connection.

Over the years, I’ve worked on documentaries, commercials, and music videos, drawn to projects that reveal honest moments and amplify voices deserving of greater recognition. My focus is on crafting narratives that are evocative yet grounded—stories that capture the emotional textures of life and the quiet truths that resonate the most. 

Guided by empathy and curiosity, I view every production as a meaningful collaboration—an opportunity to listen, learn, and honor the story as it unfolds naturally. I’ve learned to navigate tight schedules and limited resources, but my passion lies in the alchemy of storytelling—the way light, composition, and movement infuse meaning into a single frame. Each image is an attempt to honor the complexities of a moment, a subject, or a place, giving it the care and attention it deserves.

As I move toward feature-length documentaries and narrative work, I’m especially drawn to stories from underrepresented communities—narratives that challenge assumptions, expand understanding, and challenge our collective imagination. These stories inspire me to push boundaries, explore new ways of seeing, and celebrate the human experience

Thank you for visiting my website—I hope my work resonates with you, and I’d love the opportunity to connect. While I’m available as a cinematographer, I also run Humxn Media, a full-service production company offering comprehensive storytelling and filmmaking services. If your project requires a larger team, we’d be excited to collaborate and create something meaningful together.