Have you ever hired a black photographer?

When it comes to photography, representation matters. The photographers behind the lens play a crucial role in shaping the way we see the world and the way the world sees us. But unfortunately, the photography industry has long been dominated by white photographers, leaving little room for photographers of color to showcase their talents and perspectives. As a black photographer, I understand the importance of representation in the industry and the impact that it can have on the way we see ourselves and others.

Photography is a powerful tool for storytelling and representation. When we see ourselves reflected in the imagery that surrounds us, it can help to validate our existence and our experiences. Hiring black photographers can help to create more diverse and inclusive imagery, which can help to break down stereotypes and create a more accurate representation of the world.

As a black photographer, I have faced my fair share of challenges in the industry. I've been told that my work is "too ethnic," or that it doesn't fit the "aesthetic" of the client. But instead of letting these comments discourage me, I've used them as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries and creating work that represents the diversity of the black experience.

Black photographers are often underrepresented in the industry and face barriers to entry, such as lack of access to resources, networks, and opportunities. However, there are ways to overcome these challenges. For example, by connecting with other black photographers, building a community, and using social media as a platform to showcase your work.

It's time to change the face of the photography industry and make space for black photographers. We need to actively seek out and hire black photographers, and support their work in the industry. By doing this, we can create a more diverse and inclusive photography industry that accurately represents the world we live in. In conclusion, hiring black photographers is important not only for representation but also for creating a more diverse and inclusive photography industry. As a black photographer, I understand the challenges that we face, but I also know the impact that our work can have on the way we see ourselves and others. So let's change the face of the photography industry, and make space for black photographers, so we can see the world in a new way.

THIS WILL NOT BE STOLEN: IN JUST US

Micah Mackenzie is a contemporary artist who works with found objects to create pieces that explore the intersection of nature, culture, and technology. His latest series of paintings reflect his concern about the state of our country.

"I would love to believe that I have Freedom in these Great States, but alas, that is not the case." Mackenzie said. "The right to feel normal is denied on these promised lands.

Mackenzie's work explores themes of identity and belonging, as well as how race and gender affect those experiences today. Micah Mackenzie, an artist from Asheville NC, has released a new collection of works that show how he feels about living in the United States. He says he's not sure whether he can call it a promised land anymore.

"I wanted to make art that was honest and real," said Mackenzie. "I felt like people were trying to deny the reality of the world around them—but then I realized I was doing the same thing."

Mackenzie's new works show what it feels like to live in America today: where you have freedom, but not really; where you feel normal, but not really; where you think everything is okay, but then you realize it isn't.

"In these great states," said Mackenzie, "you can't even feel normal without getting criticized for it."Mackenzie has been an active member of the community for many years serving on the PACC, ARTS AVL, and YMI Boards and I’m excited to show you what is next!

The artist states that these new works are meant to be seen by all Americans, regardless of their political affiliation or beliefs. "My goal is not to change people's minds about how they feel about things," he says. "I just want them to see what I see."

I wish would all see the light before it's too late.

SHUTTER DOWN SESSIONS

LIVE YOUR DREAM

〰️

LIVE YOUR DREAM 〰️

SHUTTER DOWN SESSIONS~

Refined Skill and Styling awaits your next portrait with us.

These NEXT LEVEL sessions will push the boundaries of how you see yourself and how the world will see you. Theragraphy is back!! The polite banter between two souls looking for the light that will paint them in the colors they/he/she were meant to be draped in on this canvas. Looking forward to making Art with you!

Making a portrait your family will treasure for generations. I’ve been photographing individuals families, weddings, and special events since 2009, and mostly on the East Coast. Though I also love to travel and photograph people in new places as well! Inquire about my travel rates. I am also starting to teach teach photo classes online and in person for how to use your SLR camera, send me an email if you’d like more details!

When you are ready to book, I generally schedule my sessions Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. May is a busy time of the year, so if you are wanting to book then, do so in advance! But I will often have some openings in there if you are last minute and flexible.

SHUTTER DOWN SPECIAL SESSION PRICE $250*

CONTACT US TO LOCK IN YOUR TIME

THE RETURN

First Sight~ To be showcased at the BLUE SPIRAL

Return to to my emotions..

My last Blog post was dated in 2019..

Right before…

You know.

I find it oddly intriguing that I slowed down then. Ripping the cloth of on my brain as if it has rested for so long. I collect bumps and bruises along the way, trudging, remembering what I never forgot. `I so often think the SECRET to life is just understanding that time is a teacher as well. My best teacher.

The Grand Gesture~

Your childhood shapes who you are, Period. Those lessons taught with actions more so than words. A good life should be the goal of every human on this planet. Animals seem to translate this better than any human I have seen so far these travels. 

Owning ones journey is the toughest test ever created. By choice and ????? we crave the paths that have shaped us. I recently decided to hack my way through this last journey. It was a pull I have never felt before in my life. The extreme urge to go and meditate in one spot on this earth. 

Waking up in those sacred lands was something else! I slept in my car on the side off the road in a perfected patched spot on the first night. A spot where I could see a cougar or moose from about 5ft away. So yeah, scared shitless, but happy. I made it! I drove through some of south I have never dared think about. I did not regret it. I saw a inspiring vision of what would be. Rugged, Beautiful and truly fascinating with all us souls and stories. You have to live/write the story that will make you cry in the end. From such experiences that all come to an end. You have to live that life now. Hold no ill will toward any man or woman. We are a mix of cosmic soup that still stirs and creates anew and destroys you, if you let it. 

I am mightier than a mountain. When I walk the earths shakes underneath me feet. That's my attitude. I almost forgot that is what I told the child in me so long ago. So I took a journey to show that little guy the crater. Was that part of the pull to be there, yes, but not fully. When you do what you love, NOTHING will stop you from doing it. Spoken like a true artist ,right? Well Hell, I am, to the fullest in my soul. 

I saw the Sunrise and the Moonset at the same time on my first morning there at the Canyon.