Little Stars

They are bright, shiny disco balls of energy lighting up our universe. Their imaginations and creativity are illuminating the future of fashion, and they haven't even hit college yet. I'm talking about the talented young minds I had the pleasure of meeting at the Julia Dean Photo Workshops "Fashion Fun For Teens" class last week. The workshop is taught by my girl and photographer superstar Kawai Matthews who invited me to speak for the second year in a row. Score!


When I arrived to the class, the group of young girls were critiquing a photo assignment they were asked to work on the night before. They were told to style a family member or friend in a couple of different looks and try to make a story out of it. The pictures were absolutely perfect. You could see the direction each one was taking as if their photos were just a rough draft of what art they will create later. Then it was time for my official introduction about the work I've done and what it takes to become a good photographer. The girls had lots and lots of questions about everything from picking the right model to hair and makeup to styling. I love the way their minds work... so detailed. We flipped through my portfolio and I gave the backstory of what it took to achieve those photos.


After a bit of guidance from Kawai and a little setting up, it was time for the girls to take their place behind the camera and for me to play model. One by one each teen introduced herself and told me what she wanted. Most of them said "give me fun, happy and summery" which went so well with the bright yellow backdrop. But as they went on, the girls got more specific and wanted something moody and edgy. I told them not to be afraid of getting closeups and really capturing the moment. I wanted to drive home this idea of creating something with your team and knowing when you've gotten the picture you were hoping for. Something can be technically right, but if doesn't stimulate your head or heart, then you've got to keep shooting. I probably sounded like a broken record, but I said repeatedly "You want your photography to evoke a feeling".

This workshop was such an enlightening experience for me. I went there at the request of Kawai to give back and hopefully encourage some aspiring young photographers. Instead, they have inspired me to continue creating and reach for the sky. Thank you to Kawai and the folks at Julia Dean for having me once again. And to the teen girls I had the pleasure of working with, I can't wait to see you all take over the world of fashion photography in the next few years. You are all little stars!