● About
What is BWNC?
Black With No Cream (BWNC) is a free private community for creatives of all kinds - a safe space to connect, collaborate, and grow together.
From filmmakers and photographers to editors, designers, and multi-hyphenate artists, BWNC brings together creatives at every level - from beginners to industry veterans - to share ideas, ask honest questions, build their network, and find new opportunities without gatekeeping or ego.
Founded in 2016 by Grammy Award–winning cinematographer and director Ben Hagarty, BWNC was born out of a need for the kind of supportive creative community that didn’t exist when he was getting started.
● Our Story
Meet Ben
Ben Hagarty is an award-winning cinematographer and director best known as Beyoncé’s personal cinematographer. He earned a Grammy for his cinematography on Beyoncé’s Homecoming film and has spent over a decade documenting the world’s most iconic artists and directing projects for major brands. With a signature style rooted in authenticity, motion, and emotion, Ben has become a trusted creative force in the entertainment industry.
As his career gained momentum, Ben remained grounded in his mission to give back. In 2016, he founded Black With No Cream (BWNC) to create the kind of community he wished existed when he was coming up — one that offers real connection, mentorship, and support without gatekeeping. Today, he speaks at universities and creative conferences around the country, and serves as a Canon USA Ambassador, using his platform to inspire the next generation of storytellers.
● Our Mission & Philosophy
Our Principles
●
Creativity Over Perfection
We celebrate bold ideas, happy accidents, and the magic that happens when things don’t go as planned.
●
Making Made Accessible
We believe the arts should be available to every child, with financial aid and support making camp more inclusive.
●
Artists at the Helm
Campers learn directly from practicing artists who model curiosity, discipline, and a lifelong creative practice.
●
Process Over Product
We emphasize exploration and making over polished results, helping campers see value in the work itself.