Stop Holding Your Talent Hostage
Friday, July 8, 2011
“Well, well, well … fancy seeing you. I was beginning to think a creative professional no longer lived here.” This is what I imagined my blog would say if it could talk. Many moons ago, I asked you to join me on my creative journey. However, it’s difficult to be a passenger when I’m not walking, when access has been denied, or when I’m holding my talent hostage.
While in NYC a few weeks ago, enjoying fish, grits and my signature bacon, the topic of my blog came up. *bbm can’t watch face* As I devoured the last bit of @ellegee47′s grits and body rolled with @jovizi the conversation got real. *cues opening from MTV’s series, Diary* “You think you know … but you have no idea.”
My issue was two-fold. For months, I’d been working on some amazing projects with great teams. (Judging by the October date of my last post, you wouldn’t know.) I felt growth with every shoot and saw the depth and range of my portfolio increasing. As a fashion stylist, I was elated! Then I thought, “I’m going to wait until after this next shoot before I update my site and blog. No, no, wait … after I get THESE images back from THIS shoot, I’m going to post.” By the time I got a handle on everything, it was May. All I could do was shake my head. I had become paralyzed by perfection. #Shoutout to Tia Smith.
Secondly, the more I hustled to build a stronger portfolio, the more I compared my work to other fashion stylists who’d been in the industry for YEARS. I started to think my portfolio was not on par with those I admired. It had reached the point where I actually could not stand looking at my work. It was a vicious cycle.
After completely revamping my website (coming soon), I had to take step back and have a few conversations with my family from the Creative Hostel. They helped me put my artistry in perspective. You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk. Suddenly in the background, I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now??? You sure, because I’m putting away my trench coat, umbrella and galoshes. I’m finally ready to release my talent from bondage.
In an earlier post, I discussed the goal of getting my work published and the pitfalls of chasing tear sheets. Well, a lot has happened since that post. My work has been featured in a several publications, with more on the way. *bbm party face* I want to share my very first tear sheet from the December issue of T&M Magazine. Shot by Joao Carlos in a penthouse on Miami’s South Beach, Perdida De Amor (Lost Love) delves into the soul of a woman whose husband has gone astray. I hope you enjoy viewing the images as much as I did styling them.
Special thanks to @lmoney21, @L10_MIA, @ellegee47, @HewbieMac, @carmtasticc, @Dino_Teme, @jovizi, @EUmphery & @ELLEvation.
***Photographer, Joao Carlos, Model, Marie Charlotte (Next Miami) Hair/MUA, Sindy Perez & Jenna Marie Streitenfeld
Write a Comment
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
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
-
Susan
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!
-
C Grange
#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.
-
Raven
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.
-
Almarene Lowndes
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.
-
Thank you for publishing regarding that . There’s a bunch of useful information on the world-wide-web. You’ve got a lot of which info here on your web site. I’m amazed – I try to retain a bride and groom weblogs somewhat ongoing, but it can be difficult at times. You’ve done a big job with it one. I could have to check out your blog again very soon
-
Please let me know if you’re looking for a author for your blog. You have some really good articles and I believe I would be a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d really like to write some articles for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine. Please shoot me an e-mail if interested. Many thanks!
Write a Comment
Young, Struggling and Styling
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
As I cooked breakfast for myself this morning, I decided to check my bank account. *thinks* If I could just add one more zero behind that one, I’d have ten whole dollars. iKID, iKID. But in all honesty, since starting my journey as a full-time fashion stylist and creative director, I’ve had to make numerous sacrifices for my craft. It’s rare I’ll go into a store and shop for myself anymore. The days of purchasing a $250 pair of jeans are over.com/whatwereyouthinkinganyway, and I can no longer financially justify my love of Ferragamos. *deep sigh*
Instead, all my money goes to sustaining my business, which of course includes PORK Bacon and Red Velvet. #NOM! As a stylist, you always need working capital for shoots, especially when styling agency-signed models. It’s the never-ending, buy-and-return process. Purchase merchandise for the shoot, pray to Sweet Baby Jesus, who lies ever-so peacefully in his manger that the model does not damage anything, then steam, re-tag, fold and return the merchandise to the respective stores. *bbm whew face* Talk about risky business!
If you continue to buy and return in the same stores, your face becomes familiar to the staff. Some stores have the right to refuse returns, so you have to be strategic. I look at returns as if I’m going to war. My battleship WILL NOT be sunk. I often purchase at one store’s location and return to another. If that’s not an option, I change the shift of when I return the clothes. I know of some stylists that have been stuck with hundreds of dollars in merchandise because the store refused the return. What’s an up-and-coming stylist to do?!?!
Well, some stores will allow a stylist to pull (borrow) clothing and accessories and pay a 20-30% restocking fee of the total. *bbm talk to the hand face* Did I mention that I’m an up-and-coming stylist??? LOL I need ALL of my dollars returned to me. Another option is pulling from designers and showrooms. Depending on your relationship, the pull could be free, come with a rental fee, or result in signing your life away for $30,000 worth of merchandise on a loan agreement. Not to mention, if the designer is located in a different city or country, the shipping fees you will incur. Essentially, you have to spend money to make money. You don’t want all your looks to be off the rack as you progress in your career.
To sum it all up, being a fashion stylist is not always glamorous, but it’s rewarding if you’re willing to put the work into building your brand. One cannot have tunnel vision when pursuing their creative passion; you have to look at the bigger picture. Most importantly you have to do it because you’re passionate. Sometimes that’s all you have…
Check out my video interview with WA2 for his Young, Fly & Broke series. I go into a little more detail about my life as a stylist. If you would like the recipe for my brown sugar cured bacon, shoot me an email. Enjoy!
17 Comments
-
Raw, Authentic and honest. I like…don’t ever wait this long again to post. Good job my broda!!
-
I know I’ve been slacking the past month or so, but I’ve had some great projects in the works. Hold me accountable broda. I need it.
-
-
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu, A. U. Kalu, FAST by Ferracci, Elton [L10] Anderson, M.B.B. and others. M.B.B. said: RT @Apuje: NEW BLOG POST: Young, Struggling & Styling -> http://bit.ly/9IU2Wq I know its been a month, but check me out and comment tweeps! [...]
-
Thank you for a new post (finally)! If you’re passionate and continue to work hard, you’ll definitely reap the benefits of your hard work. We all see nothing but success in your future!
I want to also share that b/c of you, I am now reading the Alchemist (I saw your recommendation to Bianca on twitter). I’m on that journey to find and truly understand my Personal Legend! There are some great lessons in that book.
If/When you have some free time, check out new posts on the blog
-
The Alchemist is thebomb.com. Let me know your thoughts when you’re done.
-
-
Arminta
You continue to inspire me and crack me up
I love what you’re doing! -
This hit close to home for me. I’m a young, developing photographer & money doesn’t grow on trees where I’m from either. I get paid for shoots, just to turn around & put that money into getting quality equipment. I also have to buy clothes for models from time to time. It’s a nasty game of give & take, but passion… that makes it aaaaaallll worth it.
-
You can say that again…money does NOT grow on trees. It seems like you have the right idea Jai and you’re on the right path. Surround yourself with the right people and things will continue to progress!
-
-
Chandia
Great post bro! I LOVE and respect your honesty. Its a reminder that the current sacrifice that I’m making for my dreams is the right thing to do. I wish you blessings and success. I’m cheering from the sidelines!
-
Nice post…minus the bacon s/o.
D Anywho, you’re heading in the right direction. You had a passion, you went for it and I believe pretty soon, you’ll be rewarded back in dividends. Keep your head up. I think your broke days will soon be over.
Question: The shoot in Nigeria, was that your first time there? I haven’t been in 2…going on 3 years. *weeps* I’m feening for another visit.-
Gotta give Bacon a S/O! Speak it into existence…my broke days will be over! It was my 1st trip to Nigeria, but it won’t be last. Hopefully I’ll be able to get back next year. This Christmas would ideal.
-
-
Mike
Great post. It was an interesting behind-the-behind of the scenes to styling. So do you stock up before shoots, or just get things as you see them, in hopes of using them later?
-
I have a kit full of Men’s and Women’s accessories that I bring to every shoot. They always come handy. I stock up during clearance sales on re-usable pieces.
-
-
Damon
great post! really shines a spotlight on your commitment to you craft. you can borrow a dollar or two anytime.
-
Dr. Kathy Kane
Big Bro! I LOVE that you’ve decided to follow your passion, despite the hardships. This post should’ve come with a PayPal donation link…..and less pork bacon pics…. -_-
Anyways, you know that you have my support 100,000%! Wish I could match it with $…lol -
Kris Watson
Very enlightening and beneficial to someone whose been out of the circuit for a long time.
- Kris
-
I am really proud of you. I’m happy to be your friend and in the company of someone so awesome. See you at the top my friend, even if we have to carry each other.
Write a Comment
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
-
Thank You so much Apuje I love this blog on point brother!
-
[...] 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! [...]
-
Ace
Some really nice work and I love the unique approach you took. Both you and Ebony stay fly!
-
DeLonya
All Prasie to The MOST HIGH, for your skill and talent! May ALLAH grant you much success! Love You to LIFE!
-
Tamara
Look at tay… These pics are beautiful!!!!
-
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!
-
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!
-
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.
-
Julia
Amazing work Apuje and Ebony. You both have always been so very talented. Much success with everything! God Bless!
-
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
-
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!
-
Please tell me she is in the DMV??? I need a barbar ASAP
-
Yep, she’s definitely in the DMV. Check the bottom of the post for Ebony’s info.
-
-
John-Clifton Victor
nice…
-
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.
Write a Comment
The Power of @twitter ◊ Resistance is Futile
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
While there are many people who are still against social networking, *bbm confused face* I’m a huge fan. Being on Twitter for close to a year and a half has helped me spark new friendships, solidify others, establish my online brand and make great connections. Case in point, my friend @jayfierce saw a tweet from @AdrienField, the fashion market editor for Vibe Magazine who needed an assistant for a Miami video shoot. He immediately thought of me and started to blow my phone up.
After three attempts, @jayfierce was finally able to reach me. What can I say; I’m a busy man! He informed me about the opportunity and provided the contact information. After doing my research, I sent @AdrienField an e-mail expressing my interest in working with him if he felt my skill set matched his need. He replied, “You might be over qualified given your portfolio, but I would love to have you on set.” And I exclaimed, “As long as I’m not getting the crew coffee and doughnuts, I’m down.” I know @AdrienField was probably thinking, #ohyoufancyhuh, lol.
At any rate, after a few more e-mail exchanges, I found out I would work with him styling the six featured girls in Trey Songz’s newest smash hit, Bottoms Up featuring Nicki Minaj, as well as Trey’s new single, Can’t Be Friends. Can you say, “Excited much?!?!” All I could do was thank the Lord above for continuously blessing me with these opportunities … oh, and @twitter too.
Video shoots are a laborious process. Some can span over two days and there’s a lot, I mean, A LOT of waiting between sets. However, when you see the final product, it’s almost always worth it.
Check out the season finale of Trey Songz: My Moment tonight on BET, 10 p.m. ET/9 CT, where you can see behind the scenes footage of Bottoms Up. View the full video below; the girls look quite delectable if I do say so myself! #YUUUUUUP
18 Comments
-
UAU
#salute
-
That is a great look and I can speak from expereince too on how Twitter can boost careers and create new opportunities for people. This is a great blog post and it definitely hit home. Hopefully, others utilize Twitter for more than a soapbox…
-
Strictlybiz38
Good job Bro! Congrats on the blessings.
-
congrats on the great opportunity! i’m sure more opportunities like that will soon follow.
-
Frenchie
I worry about people that dont tweet! I mean, are they still rocking hi-top fades too?! It’s rapidly become more uselful to me that FB ever was
-
I am so proud of you @apuje!! You gave me my first lessons in tweeting a little over a year ago, now I’m a certified tweeter! And I owe it all to you
Honestly, I love all social media, especially @twitter, it’s been really instrumental to the work of @DivasMPH in the community! <– [follow us!] #socialmediarocks
XOXO,
@miss_madie -
JMac
Congrats on all the good work Bro! May continued success come your way!
And @twitter is OKAY….LOL!
-
Elliott Kiadii
Congrats on that bro! Im glad that your dreams are truly becoming a reality!!!
-
I was initially a Twitter doubter. Did not understand the appeal. Now, I have seen the light (Hallelujah)! Especially for business people, like yourself. Congratulations on your recent assignment! Hopefully, more will come your way.
-
Kezia
Congrats!
-
Curtis
**leaves Post-It note** Dear Apuje, Curtis was here. That’s all.
Oh by the way…CONGRATS, LB!!
LOL#okbye
-
Congratulations Mr. Kalu on this amazing project. I am so blessed to have friends and FamilE! like you and it’s great to see fellow young urban “professionals” truly following their dreams! Keep rockin it!
-
Jeremy aka J BakE!
Great job bro, I’m happy to see the blessings poor out to young professionals like youself. You inspire me to keep going and keep praying. Congrats!!! B-)
-
wow freakin amazin Apuje!!!! congrats and i know many more BIG opportunities will be coming ur way #Amen yeaaaa <~trigga's voice
-
J. Bland
Apuje, I remember you telling me about this shoot. Social networking is such a powerful tool… great post!
-
Spiele Murk
Very enlightening and beneficial to someone whose been out of the circuit for a long time.
-Murk
-
I too, can attest the the usefulness of social networking in building business and creating new opportunities. But we must remember that even when opportunities are present, we must be prepared to take advantage…Your skill proved you were! Congrats and as always, I am so very proud of you! xoxoxo
-
This is so true Apuje! I started an intense Internet campaign last year&it has helped my buisness tremendously. FB&Twitter has exsposed my work to alot of ppl all over the world. I also have made new connections with other barbers that I follow so we have a cool camaraderie which is great
20 Comments
“You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” AMEN!!! This is something I have to remind myself of daily.
Congratulations on having your work published! The photos from the T&M Magazine look great; definitely feeling the Lady Gaga inspiration. Glad to see you’re back on the site; can’t wait to view more!
Dopeness! Was Truly inspired by your blogpost! Congrats on your tearsheet!
GREAT imagery. Joao is an amazing photog and Gina is a kick ass retoucher.. Love those images!
Great Stuff Apuje! Way to Go For Your Dreams! Big Congrats
Doper than Dope!!
So proud of you and hoping we cross paths again soon!
Those are terrific shots! Keep up the good work Apuje!
Your work speaks for itself. You have a gift! I am inspired. Keep it up! Also, thanks for being transparent in your post. I think everyone can relate to the paralysis you spoke of. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the constant support Yarb!
Insanity!!! Once again my broda has delivered. The shoot looks amazing. I can see the growth and I am so very proud of you. You are sure on your way there my friend. Please remember the journey once you reach the destination. It is pivotal you continue to share these types of stories….inspiration comes in all forms.
WOW Apuje! This shoot is amazing! I love every single thing about it. Just gorgeous!
Thanks so much for the shout out! I have been waiting on a new blog post. I am so glad you have allowed yourself to be released from your self imposed bondage. Accepting that we are constantly on a journey and never perfect can sometimes be a challenge. Your work however is amazing and always has been, I am glad that you are continuing to progress. Congrats on your tear sheet, I am sure many more will follow because your talent is unmatched.
I like Beyonce’s music but I am finally starting to respect her as an artist because NOW I am believing/ relating to what she has to say. I say that because I have heard her say several times now, that she doesn’t compare/compete w/other artists she competes against herself. she strives to elevate to a new level in all that she does. That’s how we have to be. Because people love different things. Have you ever noticed how many small businesses thrive because people have preferences. Think about all the Ereaders out there! Its a matter of personal preference. so from one creative person to another, I am glad you are tossing the shackles away and letting your creativity flourish.
I completely understand what you’re saying Kia. I gained more of an appreciation for Beyonce once I saw her special on VH1.
Welcome back bro. and the work looks AMAZING! I see Apuje in these shots but on a whole different level. The class and elegance in the accessories is SO you. but the visual Eclecticism…. brand new level of Gordon Gartrell outchea! Major Props bro.
Nice! Keep up the good work.
So happy to see that you are back! I missed seeing your posts! Awesome work as always!
Apuje great post man! Eyes have not seen… the things you will create for the world with your talents! I believe that. I’ve seen tremendous growth in your work and I know I haven’t seen half of what you’re capable of. And lets talk about these one-liners in this post… “I had become paralyzed by perfection.” “You can never measure your success by that of other” “Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” “I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now???” — You gave me four great tweets just like that. Keep up the good work! Proud of you!
This was AMAZING!!! Definitely inspiring and beauty images!!! Love everything about this. Congrats
This is DOPE! Proud of you homie. Keep doing your thing. Soon the stylists that you look up to will be blogging about you.