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! [...]
Some really nice work and I love the unique approach you took. Both you and Ebony stay fly!
All Prasie to The MOST HIGH, for your skill and talent! May ALLAH grant you much success! Love You to LIFE!
Look at tay… These pics are beautiful!!!!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.