A CONVERSATION WITH JOKER

A CONVERSATION WITH JOKER

Posing for different photographers, from amateurs to experienced ones since the age of nineteen, gave me the possibility to encounter great personalities. One of those I have personally seen growing and had the pleasure to model for is Brandon, in art Joker, that I love and appreciate as if we were brother and sister. I am glad to share part of his journey with you as well as some beautiful pictures from his photo shoots. 

Model Yhicey Hawt @goddess_yhicey

How did you discover your passion for photography?

When I interned as a cinematography student for Maysles Cinema in Harlem, I fell in love with the camera and sharing people's stories. From there I started doing photography and I felt that a story could be more felt and powerful through a still image instead of a voice.

What role your family and surrounding played in becoming the artist you are today?

My father at first was hesitant because he didn't see how I could make money from doing films and/or doing photography. My mother was supportive because she saw how I felt at peace whenever I was behind the camera or editing. Over time my father saw my passion and my drive and he saw how I put everything I had into it. One thing he always talked about was if you love something so much you would give your all into it, and he saw I was trying to live up to that. Now they will never stop talking about how their youngest child is taking beautiful pictures, getting published in magazines all over the world, and making people feel happy with themselves and life.

Model Luis Santana @mooncaramelo

What were the first subjects you photographed and what are those you are mainly astonished by?

The first subjects I photographed were my friends and classmates in high school. Despite how some of the classmates felt about me, I want to believe that they saw how dedicated I was to the craft and how I wasn't wavering from anything that was thrown my way. From taking pictures at football practice to off time during musical rehearsals, I always had my camera with me ready to shoot.

What would you say are the biggest obstacles you face as a fashion photographer?

As a fashion photographer (or a photographer in general) I sometimes struggle with giving direction during shoots because I want to make it so I can capture the designer's vision for their clothes, and oftentimes I feel like I fall short even when the designer and model love the shots. Also working with designers/models who sometimes think it's easy to edit a photo or take a photo is an obstacle, because sometimes people think photography is as easy as 1-2-3 but there's more to it than just pressing the trigger.

Models Enjenee Randall @enjeneejoye
Elajee Randall @brownskintwinnn

What are, in your opinion, the limits of the fashion industry?

I believe there are no limits of the fashion industry because like technology there's no ceiling. Possibilities are endless. However, I will say that if something is done over and over again then it's not working.

What are, in your experience, the biggest challenges that a freelance photographer faces?

Biggest challenge as a freelance photographer is both getting the respect from clients and magazines because some freelance photographers, including myself, do everything solo (planning, shooting, post production, etc...) and people sometimes forget that. Another challenge is getting those opportunities to shoot with agencies or companies.

Model India Roe @onlyindiaroe
Outfit IYBO Clothing @iyboclothing

Many fashion photographers have a muse, do you think you've ever found one? If yes, what inspires you most about your muse?

I think I've found my muse. Her name is India Roe. Everytime we shoot it's always a fun experience and the photos always come out beautiful. From the first shoot we did together to the shoots we do now, we've both improved and grew in our perspective fields (modeling and photography). The energy and connection we have both during shoots and outside of shooting allow us to do what we love and build off each other. Her Instagram is @onlyindiaroe

Model Do Williams @iamdowilliamsofficial

What is the photograph or photo set that makes you mostly proud of yourself and your art?

The photo set that I’m most proud of would have to be when I was in college: I took pictures for the athletics department and I was there when the girls basketball team won their first NCAA championship, and I took a photo of a senior with the net around her and the MVP trophy and the championship trophy and the emotion on her face was just a moment I'm never gonna forget.

Is there any project you're currently working on?

I'm not working on anything currently, but I am thinking of new shoots and projects.

What are your biggest dreams and aspirations?

My biggest dream is to open a studio to use for myself and other creatives, but also to use as a space for people to learn more about their craft and a safe place for them to be free and be able to find themselves and be inspired.

Model Jazzy Rose @jvzzyrose
signed under LOUDNation @weareloudnation

This was only a taste of Joker’s Graphics’ world, and you can keep up with Brandon following his Instagram profiles @bcharltonphotos and @jokersgraphics.

Martina.