Studio Love

This has been a year of great opportunities for growth, portfolio expansion, romantic interests, and economic opportunity. During my usual summer obligations with the Mayor's Youth Academy (MYA),  I had a chance to catch up with a few friends that I hadn't seen in quite some time. This meeting of the minds was the beginning of a beautiful partnership that I hope lasts for years to come.

This summer I was invited to join a new modeling agency in Richmond, Virginia by the name of  Show & Prove inc. (S&P). S&P was started by Robert Crenshaw and Juno Irving. The dynamic duo came to the realization that they were tired of seeing "plastic" models and how underrepresented the natural, African American form is in mainstream media. Although their beginnings are more than humble, their hunger and need for success are insatiable.

Within just a few months Juno and Robert have put together an impressive team of culturally and ethnically diverse models. By using the magic of social media and some creative promotional events they have created a network that allows them to reach several thousand people for their promotional and marketing ventures in the DMV region.

From Left to Right:

     Sam Brown - While being an avid motorcycle rider Sam is also interested in photography, volleyball, and Track. Sam has always been interested in the cosmetic arts and is constantly seeking new was to express herself artistically. 5'5" 40-35-43

     Monaie Boisseau - Deriving from French creole, and Jamaican heritage she has a distinctive look. With the ability to be versatile she has the skills of embodying different personas, appearing both soft and fierce. She is petite in size with an appealing personality. Monaie is optimistic, determined, and eager to explore new opportunities. 5'2" 33.5-30-34.5

     Jade Murray - Jade became interested in modeling at a young age though an introductory runway modeling competition. She is fond of hobbies such as running, dance, music, event planning, and also travel. She has been to countries such as Germany, Italy, and France. Being clad in the high fashion couture labels of the world are what she would like to strive for in the future. She is an enthusiastic and bright young lady who works wonderfully with people. 5'7" 34-28-35

     Marya Smith - Aspiring headstrong model, Marya Smith , 21 years young, is a Richmond native who's ethnic background consists of Peruvian, Cherokee and African American. Her versatility and capability allows her to project her fiery personality into every image . Hard working, pleasure seeking, and fun loving her hobbies include; yoga, fine arts, fine wine, music, building empires and conspiracy theories.  5'3" 34'28'38

The list of models in increasing rapidly. Look out for more profiles in the future.

I was finally able to afford my own set of studio lights recently. (Big thanks to Platt Studio DC and Paul C Buff inc. for the Alien Bees) This addition gave me the ability to leave the studio womb and pursue more "interesting" venues. With each new location I was greeted with challenges that always required me to react with the greatest amount of creativity possible. The more I shoot the more I find myself wishing for "this and that." My photo wishlist  is growing larger and longer each day. (click here to check it out.)

Pro Tip #1)
      A shower curtain, a roll of duct tape, a PVC pipe, and an 8 foot shower curtain can go a long way.