Beyond the Beats: Capturing Black Excellence at Firehouse Studios Chicago
Only the Beginning:
Have you ever had the chance to step inside a music studio? The energy is palpable, a raw creative force that vibrates through the walls. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with Kelvin Howard, better known as Kelvoo in the vibrant Chicago rap scene, at the iconic Firehouse Studios. My mission? To translate his dynamic musical style into compelling visual representations.
As a newer client, Kelvoo was understandably hesitant to step in front of the camera. It was clear that building trust and creating a comfortable environment was paramount. I wanted to move beyond the typical artist photoshoot and delve into the nuances of his personality. I knew Kelvoo possessed a multidimensional nature, a blend of strength and vulnerability, and I was determined to capture that.
Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone, Together:
To truly capture the essence of Kelvoo, we decided to take a unique approach: a collaborative shopping trip. We hit the local mall, aiming to push his style boundaries while staying true to his authentic self. There, after going from store to store, we found a set of clothes and shoes that struck a perfect balance. An all-black collared shirt, black loose jeans with white accents, and classic black Timberland boots – a departure from his usual Nike athletic wear, where hoodies and sweats would typically work. It was a moment of discovery, seeing him embrace a new look that felt both fresh and familiar.
Beyond the Stereotypes: Exploring Masculinity:
I guided Kelvoo to express his masculine energy in a softer, more nuanced way, using a combination of verbal and physical direction, while allowing his natural poses to emerge. In a genre often associated with bravado, my aim was to reveal the depth and complexity of his character. We experimented with lighting, poses, and expressions, encouraging him to tap into his vulnerability and unveil a side of himself that might not always be readily apparent.
