At the Cape Cod Museum of Art with Lipe on installation day for Invisible Threads. The image marks a shared moment in a collaboration shaped by trust, conversation, and care.
Our Team
At the heart of our work is collaboration. Every project we take on is a shared effort grounded in trust, creative dialogue, and a deep respect for the people we photograph. Whether working on a quiet portrait session or a large-scale documentary project, we approach each assignment with care, professionalism, and a commitment to storytelling that feels both honest and human.
Led by Julia Cumes and supported by collaborator and lighting specialist Lipe Borges, our small but nimble team brings together artistic vision and technical precision to create imagery that resonates. Together, we strive to make every subject feel seen, every shoot feel seamless, and every story come alive.
Julia Cumes
I’m a South African-born photographer based on Cape Cod, with a focus on storytelling, identity, and human connection. Having grown up under Apartheid, I came to understand early on the power of photography—not only to witness truth, but to evoke empathy and spark change. That understanding continues to guide my work today.
My photography explores themes ranging from migration and gender equity to climate change and wildlife conservation. Whether documenting the lives of rural health workers in East Africa, the resilience of immigrant families on Cape Cod, or women’s struggles and strength around the globe, I aim to create images that invite viewers into deeper reflection and dialogue.
Over the past two decades, my work has appeared in publications including The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and many regional and national outlets. I've photographed humanitarian crises, natural disasters, and conservation efforts around the world, and I’ve collaborated extensively with nonprofits, rescue organizations, and editorial clients. In 2024, I was honored to be named the “Artist of the Year” by the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod.
In addition to my documentary work, I lead photography workshops locally and internationally—most recently in Greece, Cuba and various locations in the US. I also founded Photo Artfolio, a curated platform that supports emerging and established photographers through exhibitions, mentorship, and grants.
At its core, my work is about seeing—and helping others to see. I strive to capture the quiet, powerful moments that reveal who we are and what we long for, and to make visible the lives and stories that might otherwise remain unseen.
Lipe Borges
My collaborator, lighting assistant, and second shooter, Lipe Borges, is an independent photographer with a deep sensitivity to storytelling and human connection. Specializing in portrait and documentary photography, Lipe has a gift for observing the subtle ways people express their individuality. His work reflects a quiet attentiveness and respect for the lived experiences of his subjects.
Lipe brings not only creative insight to our projects but also exceptional technical skill—especially when it comes to lighting. He plays an integral role in shaping the visual tone of many of our shoots, ensuring that each image is both expressive and beautifully lit. His eye for detail and calm presence on set make him an invaluable collaborator, particularly during complex or fast-paced assignments.
As a team, we work in sync—often anticipating each other’s next move—to create a seamless, supportive environment for the people we photograph. Our shared belief in the power of storytelling guides everything we do, whether we’re photographing a quiet portrait on Cape Cod or documenting a community’s narrative abroad.
Passionate about travel, visual culture, and continuous learning, Lipe brings curiosity and warmth to every assignment. I’m grateful to work alongside someone who shares a deep commitment to thoughtful, ethical, and emotionally resonant photography.