Category: Lifestyle
When a Stylist Gets Shot
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Since the weather is changing, I felt this post only appropriate. It’s time to introduce you to some Fall Fashion!
You don’t need to be a former model to be a great creative director. However, stepping in front of the lens allows one to gain perspective on what the photographer is looking for from their subject, and what the person being captured needs to do for an awesome shot. Having this understanding, last Fall, I decided to put together a lifestyle photoshoot with Bentley, model from the Mattison Agency, and her precocious daughter, Savannah.
Bentley’s portfolio consisted of many high-fashion editorials and a few campaigns. I wanted to add some lifestyle shots to her book, so I enlisted the help of Elton Anderson, noted fashion photographer (I always wanted to say that), Nicole Alexis, make-up artist, and my cousin Kelechi Kalu, fellow stylist, to bring this project together. To keep the story consistent, Kelechi and I decided all three of us would wear bowties in our group shots. I was also able to pull a dress in the last look from Delilah Johnson, fashion designer from Miami.
Initially, the lifestyle shoot posed some difficulties for Bentley. One of the hardest things for a fashion model to do is be natural and not pose. A key difference between lifestyle and high-fashion shoots is the emotion the image evokes. One is more natural while the other is about fierce posing. After a couple of clicks and some light direction, Bentley found her rhythm. Soon it was time for me to step in front of the camera. Elton began to direct Kelechi and I on set, and I must say, it’s not as easy as it looks. Nicole, Alexis and Bentley chuckled as we tried to get into the groove of things. If you know Kelechi, he loves the camera. As for myself, I enjoy taking pictures with my point-n-shoot, but I give you one of two looks: an endearing smile *adjusts halo,* or the patented misty eye. YEEAAAHHH BABY! *Austin Powers voice*
My experience in front of the lens taught me so much, from shot composition and directing groups, to movement and even “natural” posing. Looking back at my body of work, I’ve seen the growth in my directing and my clients definitely benefited from my brief stint into “modeling.” I won’t be stepping in front of the camera anytime soon, so no need to hide your kids (#noeddielong) or hide your wives. This stylist has already been shot.
***Photographer, Elton Anderson, Co-Stylist, Kelechi Kalu, MUA, Nicole Alexis
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A Cut Above the Rest
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Some people think being a barber is just a job, while others see it as an art form. I agree with the latter assertion wholeheartedly. I’m in the barbershop every week watching these stylists turn trolls into treasure, and I ain’t talmbout the dolls.
One barber whose work ethic, skill set and hustle I truly admire is Ebony Mann. I’ve known Ebony for about 15 years and have seen her growth as a creative professional. She is not only a barber stylist, but an awesome emcee and music producer. Ebony approaches every project with the rigor and tenacity as if it’s her first. When I watch her pick up the clippers, I see an artist at work. So when she reached out to me about doing a photo shoot, I jumped at the opportunity. *bbm party face*
After a couple of planning meetings with me and the photographer, Elton Anderson, we knew what direction to take. Ebony did not want the traditional “take a picture of my cut” shoot. She wanted images that spoke to her and her client’s personality, while illustrating her skills behind the chair. Elton and I decided to shoot it like a campaign, demonstrating the diversity of Ebony’s clientele in a lifestyle setting.
Undoubtedly the flyest barber in the shop, styling Ebony was a breeze. *bbm whew face* I put together looks out of her closet and added a few new garments. We came up with three looks that were quintessentially Ebony. Also, I had her clients bring several pieces and I styled looks that fit the story.
I know some of the fellas will agree with me on this: a haircut will look so fresh and so clean in the shop, but when you get outside, it’s a whole different story. Not the case with Ebony. Check out her artistry below.
Ebony’s website – http://www.emannstylist.com/
***Photographer, Elton Anderson
15 Comments
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Thank You so much Apuje I love this blog on point brother!
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu, Ebony Mann. Ebony Mann said: “@Apuje: @DaFreshBarber Post is up…had to make sure it was on point. http://apujekalu.com/blog/a-cut-above-the-rest/” Thank You Bro! [...]
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Ace
Some really nice work and I love the unique approach you took. Both you and Ebony stay fly!
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DeLonya
All Prasie to The MOST HIGH, for your skill and talent! May ALLAH grant you much success! Love You to LIFE!
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Tamara
Look at tay… These pics are beautiful!!!!
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Tia
I totally agree that hair styling and barbering can be an art form. I could definitely use Ebony’s skills on my head right now. Lord please help me find a good barber in my area! Great job by you and Elton once again!
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Teya
May the lord grant you the success, wealth and knowledge to keep doing what you do….Your style is fresh to death…..Blesses to call you FAMILY, love you much!
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Nadine - MOM
For me you have always been ALSOME and the sky is the limit with your talent and skills, hang in there and keep believing in yourself, your work speaks for itself.
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Julia
Amazing work Apuje and Ebony. You both have always been so very talented. Much success with everything! God Bless!
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Chandia
SOOOOOOOOOOOO PROUD!!!!!! Without a doubt you’ve inspired me throughout college. I’m so excited to see you doing so well in a lane that you were BORN to run in. Continue the GREAT work bro <3
Blessings and Love,
Dia
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I love this blog entry…the editorial spread was hot and different than the A-typical ‘check out my haircuts’ type shoot. The photos were very inspirational. Great job!
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C Grange
Please tell me she is in the DMV??? I need a barbar ASAP
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Yep, she’s definitely in the DMV. Check the bottom of the post for Ebony’s info.
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John-Clifton Victor
nice…
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I love your eye for the shoots you direct. I’m a young photographer; as of lately, I’ve really been trying to push myself outside of “the box.” I’ve come a long way, but I’m still growing. Hopefully, I’ll eventually have worked my way into the greatness that is Mr. Kalu lol. All of your work is dope.
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Happy Birthday MJ ◊ A Fashion Story
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Where were you when news broke that the King of Pop, Michael Jackson died? I was in Harlem, NY, home of the Black Renaissance, just one block from the legendary Apollo Theatre. True to form, Rev. Al Sharpton was one of the first figureheads on scene and quickly consoled a growing crowd of devastated fans. Stereos from every corner played MJ tunes while nostalgia filled the air as people cried, laughed and danced in the streets. It was a true life and legacy celebration of the greatest entertainer of all time. *pulls sequined glove out of pocket* Of course, I had to join in and city boy slide one time for ya’ boy *in my best South Florida accent* as Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough played in my head. #iLoveFAMU
I was also in the middle of my first lifestyle shoot with VH1 & CNN correspondent, not to mention huge Michael Jackson fan, Janell Snowden. She has to be one of the coolest and most supportive people I’ve ever met. One look into the shoot, Janell’s phone started to blow up with calls from CNN to be on a panel within the hour. In my mind, I’m thinking, “Party done”. *Jamaican accent* “This shoot is about be rescheduled.” However, in a world/city of people that jumped in reaction to MJ’s death, Janell insisted we stay the course, demonstrating our mutual passion for fashion. *bbm surprised face* Not many people in Janell’s position would have passed up that opportunity. It spoke volumes about her character as a journalist and person. It’s a pleasure to work in this industry with people that share your passion; the end product is always better. Check out Janell’s fashion story with a special MJ tribute in the last look.
***Photographer, Elton Anderson
9 Comments
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I need those purple shoes in my life!!! I love the outfits in Janell’s photoshoot! Fabulous!
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Gotta love those YSL’s. The shoes in this shoot had to be my favorite!
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Love, Love, Love the shoes, concepts, & the realism oozing from the beginning photos where residents are “one” and swallowing that dreaded pill that the King of Pop is….gone.
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Veronica
Love it!
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Loving the blue flower dress & the nude shoes.
I remember being at home when I first got the news of MJ. I was actually watching TV and my sis calls from LA. “OMG, people on the streets saying Michael is dead.” Yeah right, I said. Turned on CNN; reports coming that he was in a coma. Yelled at my sis that MJ ain’t dead cause CNN said so. Then I went on TMZ and it was confirmed, that infact, he was dead. I was flabbergasted (we’re gonna overlook the fact that I believe TMZ over CNN). -
Love, Love, Love the shoes, concepts, & the realism oozing from the beginning photos where residents gather as “one” (i.e.no beef, no hating, nada) and swallowing that dreaded pill that the KIng of Pop is….gone.
p.s. im absolutely IN LOVE with those shoes ft’d in the last 2 looks!!!!
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J. Bland
I always loved these pictures. They tell such an incredible story. Janell is beautiful. Styling perfect.
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Kerri E.
OMG! I love the New York energy in this shoot. Its nothing like New York…I mean nothing. I’ve seen Janell on VH1 and she is absolutely amazing! Keep up the good work Apuje.
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FAB! I held my breath throughout the pics!
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3whobelieve inc. ◊ i too can be president
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
September of 2009, I was asked to style and direct my first campaign for 3whobelieve inc. *bbm dancing face* with no budget and a week to execute in a city I did not live *bbm straight face*. Initially, this seemed like a daunting task, but hey, I graduated from a HBCU (Historically Black College or University) and have seen tougher times *waits for AMEN Corner to chime in & gives neighbor a high 5*. But honestly, what compelled me to take on this project was the message behind burgeoning brand and the story of its inception.
3whobelieve inc. was created by 3 friends, Bernice, Joy and Kristin who found inspiration and hope in the new birth of freedom that now offers opportunities without limits to all Americans, regardless of race, creed, or color. The core mission of their brand is to design clothing that promotes positive messages to all people with a twist of style, funk, and social awareness. In addition to its clothing line, 3whobelieve inc. provides charitable funds to creative minds and effective institutions committed to empowering, uplifting, and inspiring people to be catalysts for positive change.
Check out this video for a behind the scenes view into how the project came together.
Video: i too can be president.
***Special thanks to Photographer, Elton Anderson, Make-Up Artist, Mia Scott, Videographer, George Twopointoh, and Lauren Grant for making this day possible.
10 Comments
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i smile looking at these. bravo
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Its a proud day for me as well Court! That’s one of my favorite t-shirts.
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Adeleke
Inspiring work man… Your talent keeps evolving.
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Preciate ya my Naija Broda
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The Man, The Legend, The Kalu… Haha Great work bro… I’m starting a company this summer called, “I.T. PHOTOGRAPHY” in Tallahassee & you’re going to be my inspiration once again, to be the best that I can at what I do. If you have any suggestions or information for me while its still in the works, please let me know bro. This pics are FIRE. You are very versatile, aim for the STARS…
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Beautiful photos!!
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Good STUFF !! Where’s my T Shirt?
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Elliott Kiadii
I would love to know where I can gain access to one of these shirts! Love inspirational tee’s like these!!!
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You can purchase the shirts at http://www.3whobelieve.com. Tell them Apuje sent ya!
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Attayah Ali
I saw this and should have known you were involved!! Love it… good concept, good energy, good people, good look. *two thumbs up*
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Jalea & Tosin ◊ Engagement Shoot
Friday, June 18, 2010
Memories…nothing more than memories. *stops music* I figured it only appropriate for me to take you back. Back to my first shoot as a Creative Director. It was April 2009, and my great friend, Elton Anderson {noted fashion and wedding photographer} was in town for a few engagement shoots. One of the shoots was for my girlfriend at the time best friend, Jalea and fiance, Tosin. I had no intention in being apart of the shoot, but in typical Elton fashion, he likes to have a village on set.
Although I’ve been styling and directing fashion shows on the side for years (shout out to Up And Up & Epicurean! for giving me my start) this shoot felt different. These were images that needed to stand the test of time. Jalea & Tosin already had one location selected, so after a storyboarding meeting with Elton, we contacted the couple to see if they would be open to an additional less traditional location. After a little persuasion and styling consultation, they agreed.
With limited time before the shoot, I went on the hunt to procure props based on our storyboard. When I have an idea fixed in my head, I have to see it through to execution. This can be a hindrance when time is not on your side, nevertheless it all came together in the end and what we have are the resulting images.
7 Comments
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Some women dream to get married for love, 1.5 kids the white picket fence and dog. Me? I dream of getting married so I can be styled by Apuje and photographed by Elton. Like Branch said…otherwise there is no point in getting married. bbm dead face (ha)
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DiAndria
cosign to everything my sister Tyah said…..is that a reason to want to get married bc 3 ladies have said it now (and thousands are thinking it)
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These shots are beautiful…especially the ones at the carnival. It’s easy to see they love each other. Wonderful job, Sir.
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Shavonne
I am an event planner and I can appreciate a good engagement photoshoot. These pictures are amazing! Kudos
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Thanks Shavonne! More engagement shoots to come.
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“Absolutely BEAUTIFUL!” Every photo made me smile….. I wish all of God’s Blessings to this wonder couple! “Always, Be, Happy!”
Chef Me’shelle Collins
Dallas, Texas-
Thanks for the support. This couple is amazing. God could not have put 2 more perfect people together.
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14 Comments
Dope. So dope. This shoot is crazy. Great work Elton and Apuje and all those involved.
This is hot Apuje! Love the bowtie on the model! Love your shots too!
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu and Kels A. Kalu™, Kels A. Kalu™. Kels A. Kalu™ said: RT @Apuje: NEW BLOG POST: When a Stylist Gets Shot -> http://bit.ly/duk8On feat @ohsobentley @Nicole_Alexis @kelskalu! [...]
dope post club. I am digging quite a few shots here.
loving it
As a woman I was always scared to rock a bow tie. This blog post has given me the inspiration I needed. Thanks Apuje. Great job team!
#Talmbout is this a 2k10 I aint in Tally no moh Epicurean! photo shoot? LOL #Realtalk these are some great looks bruh bruh. You know I am always in HUGE support of your craft and the C.O.L.O.U.R.S in this shoot are Fiyah.
I love all the looks – I bought two bow ties this summer and this gives me the kick i need to wear them and Ioved how you styled the turtleneck dress wit the blazer and riding boots – this winter I’m all about layers.
I looooove the authenticity of your posts. I just started following your work and I can’t wait to see more. Not only are you a good stylist, but a good teacher.
I feel like I said it before this post actually got posted. Great work. Can’t wait to see what else you’ve been working on.
I love the photos they are awesome and I must admit Apuje, you have perfected those looks since my black and white photos I shot of you on the hill!
Hey there just wanted to give you a brief heads up and let you know a few of the images aren’t loading correctly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue. I’ve tried it in two different web browsers and both show the same outcome.
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