As a wedding photographer based in Williamsburg, VA, I’ve always found deep joy in capturing intimate moments, love stories, and celebrations. But every so often, my camera leads me somewhere unexpected—somewhere that opens my eyes in new ways. My recent trip to Rwanda and Kenya was one such experience, blending my passion for travel photography with something even more profound: witnessing hope in action.

While in Rwanda, I had the privilege of traveling with ICM (International Cooperating Ministries)—an organization doing life-changing work around the world. The vision? A church in waking distance of every person in the world. Through ICM, both spiritual and physical needs of communities are met through local church partnerships. What I saw firsthand was nothing short of incredible.

One of the most unforgettable parts of the trip took us far beyond the city—by plane across Rwanda and then a 45-minute boat ride to reach a remote island community. The journey didn’t end there. Our team hiked up a steep mountain path, a strenuous trek that left us breathless in more ways than one. With no cars, no bridges, and every item brought in by boat, life here is incredibly challenging.

But what struck me most wasn’t the hardship—it was the transformation.

Thanks to ICM, the community now has a church that’s become the center of change. Through it, education has found its way to the island. A school now stands where there was once none, and a Hope Center offers women the opportunity to learn practical skills like sewing and crafting leather sandals—empowering them to support their families and dream bigger for their children.

As I captured these moments, I realized that travel photography is more than just documenting places—it’s about storytelling. It’s about honoring people, cultures, and movements that deserve to be seen and remembered. My camera became a witness not just to landscapes and faces, but to dignity, resilience, and progress.

After our time in Rwanda, we traveled to Kenya, which will be a fun safari blog post next. From vibrant cityscapes to quiet rural scenes, every frame reminded me why I fell in love with travel photography in the first place—it connects us. It reminds us how big the world is, and how connected we truly are.

Now back in Williamsburg, I’m filled with gratitude. These kinds of experiences pour fresh inspiration into my work as a wedding photographer. Whether I’m capturing a couple’s most important day or photographing a village halfway around the world, my heart stays rooted in telling real, beautiful stories.

Travel photography doesn’t just take me places. It changes how I see everything. <3

– Mattie Wezah
Wedding & Travel Photographer | Williamsburg, VA