I am an avid reader and do always appreciate most of Mrs. Rebecca Stevens' enlightening stories on racism. But when I saw the title of this essay, I just started smiling / laughing (to myself).

I am not belittling your concerns but when it comes to photography, it seems cameras are partial to lighter skin tones. This is not because of racism involved in the design of cameras. It is because of the science involved.

Lighter skin features reflect light while darker skin tones (such as mine) absorb light. That's the reason why, whenever you pair my dark skin tones with any fair or light (not white) skin tone, my darker skin tones will always fare poorer (exposure wise) if the picture taking-process is not properly managed.

Even with all the advancements and ever increasing ease of use, no camera manufacturer has been able to defeat that basic camera science rule completely.

I happen to know all these because I'm an advanced amateur photographer - in theory and practice.

PROOF: In group pictures, it's easier to get perfect exposures of lighter skinned Africans while their darker tone brethren come out with various shades of black, brown or grotesque red. Again, it all depends on the camera, cameraphone or the photographer handling the scenery. With careful composition, everything comes out (almost) perfect.

Professional photographers with their pro cameras, studio lights and accessories ought to be able to turn out well exposed shots of black people or mixed race shots. I am not excusing any pro for substandard jobs, but it may be assuaging to know that camera science is skewed (chuckle) against darker skin tones.

While you might have met white photographers who are racists, just be aware of this camera/photography basics.

Insist and have previews of your shots next time you visit any pro photographer studio.