Canon’s Explorers of Light program just grew in size and diversity, as five new photographers—four people of color, and three women—were recently added to the program’s ranks. As photography continues to evolve, so too has Canon’s prestigious program, embracing, the company says, “new talent with new perspectives while honoring the masters who came before them.”

Kahran and Regis Bethencourt of CreativeSoul Photography, Lara Jade, Lynsey Weatherspoon and Atiba Jefferson join the 33 photographers in the program, one filled with some of the industry’s best in wedding, portrait, documentary, editorial, sports photography and more. These five newly named EOL photographers bring a refreshing blend of art and creativity by capturing life and culture from perspectives that are uniquely their own.

[Read: “Diversity is Not a Trend. It’s Life.”]

Child photographers Regis and Kahran Bethencourt are the imaginative husband-and-wife duo behind the Atlanta, Georgia-based CreativeSoul Photography. With over 11 years working with hundreds of children and families, the pair gained worldwide recognition with their “AfroArt” series showcasing the beauty and versatility of afro hair. “This body of work is a way to empower kids of color around the world while celebrating the beauty, culture and heritage of afro hairstyles,” they say. Often dressed in ornate African-inspired clothing, the children (some models, others not) are photographed with stunning hair, twists and braids that are, say Regis and Kahran, symbols of strength and grace.

“Our ability to create entirely new characters and inspire a brand new generation is empowering, and we are absolutely honored to be recognized for our work and vision,” they say. The couple’s new photo book, Glory (St. Martin’s Press, October 20, 2020), aims to shatter the conventional standards of beauty for Black children.

The British born fashion photographer and educator Lara Jade is no stranger to the Rangefinder and WPPI audiences, having been featured in the magazine and at the show for both her fresh teaching style as well as her posing and lighting techniques. Jade says she is inspired by feminine strength, unique beauty and timeless style, much of which she showcases through her work for clients that include Vogue Japan, Harper’s Bazaar UK, Bobbi Brown and Monique Lhuillier.

Lynsey Weatherspoon is a portrait and editorial photographer based in both Atlanta and Birmingham. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, USA Today, NPR, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, TIME and ESPN, among others. She’s also had her work exhibited at The African American Museum in Philadelphia and Photoville in New York. Her affiliations include Diversify Photo, Authority Collective and Women Photograph.

“As a photographer and artist, my priority is to archive the moment when someone realized that they were making a difference through their life’s journey and telling their story,” says Weatherspoon. “Images can be described in such a way that it affects the hearts of those who see them. In that instance, the purpose of being a photographer comes full circle.”

Atiba Jefferson lives and works in Los Angeles and has worked for major skateboard publications over the years; he currently works at Thrasher Magazine. The photographer was also a staff photographer for the L.A. Lakers during the Shaq and Kobe years, and he’s known for photographing more SLAM magazine covers than any other photographer.

“What I love the most about photography is the moment in time you capture that will never happen again,” says Jefferson. “It’s magic. I also believe you are only as good as your subject, so I’m so honored when people allow me to take their photograph. I see pictures everywhere I look. Photography is in my blood, which means I haven’t really worked a single day in 25 years.”

Congratulations to all the honorees! You can view the full list of photographers in Canon’s current EOL program here.