Photography
MaDE
I'm excited to launch my newest brand, MaDE, or Manifest a Different Energy. MaDE is a model creative development collective that aims to guide and coach the models I work with closely. If you couldn't guess by the name--the goal is to manifest a different type of energy. To capitalize on a model's raw passion and talent and push them to the next level creatively.
MaDE offers my clientele the opportunity to break into the modeling industry, shoot regularly, increase their portfolio, and network with potential agents and photographers. I'm excited to share this project with you as we dive deep into the world of MaDE.
First on the roster is 19 years old, CJ. Straight from Hampton Virginia, he has an appreciation for the arts and is looking to kick start his career in acting and modeling. Cj is passionate about his growth as an artist and constantly looking to improve himself and thrive in his uniqueness. Working with CJ was a pleasure, to say the least. Check back in soon to hear how we worked on his creativity in front of the camera.
For his first MaDE shoot, Creative Director Malik Johnson wanted to ensure that his vision shined through. Johnson worked closely with novel model, CJ, for the feature. MaDE allows Johnson to coach and train models while introducing their faces into the industry. As someone new to the modeling world, Mailk saw potential in the recent high school graduate and believed he’d be perfect for the shoot.
To begin, Johnson discussed his vision and plan for the shoot with CJ. He explained basic terminologies, such as the differentiation between a profile and a head-on photo. Johnson also took the liberty to style his client. For this shoot, Johnson wanted to emphasize the pants, so he styled CJ in simple white and black tees and bullet-hole patterned pants designed by Baltimore clothing brand, Pistachio Gallery. Johnson wanted to achieve a posh and urban look for CJ, with nicely fitted pants.
For the location, Johnson wanted CJ to have free range during the shoot and ensure that he didn’t feel restricted in a singular space. Johnson scouted out a private underpass that matched the urban vibe he wanted for the shoot.
Once styled and prepped, CJ was ready to shoot. As a newcomer to modeling, CJ instantly demonstrated natural talent. Later, Johnson applauded his model for his maturity and mentions that he was great at taking direction. To Johnson, it was a pleasure to watch CJ incorporate his lessons before the camera. Johnson was worried about the shoot’s flow since he planned to take pictures and then transition into videography leading into the second outfit choice, but CJ adjusted nicely to the changes.
The shoot was an overall success, where Johnson achieved his goal, and CJ dipped his feet into modeling. Though this was their first time working as a team, it most definitely will not be their last.
-Cassidy Dyce
