Artist Feature: iDJ Photography

Through our Artist Features section, we've covered MCs, DJs, producers, models, designers...and now photographers. Darren Johnson, a young photographer from London, caught our eye and he was good enough to answer some questions while on vacation in Jamaica.

Cee: Hey Darren, what's good man? I know you're out in Jamaica right now, so peace for chatting to us on your vacay.

Darren: No problem at all!

Cee: First up, break down your journey in photography for the people.

Darren: I was at a crossroads in my life around 2007, wondering what to do career-wise (which I'm sure most people have the same dilemma once in a while). It then hit me that since I was little I have studied photos either from family, friends or even complete strangers personal collections.

I then nervously enrolled into a course, which luckily was very close by, in film photography, which taught me the basics in the darkroom.

Once I finished the course, I decided to purchase a camera and ever since then a camera never leaves my sight. I'm always looking out for potential photographic opportunities, at the same time building a reputation, brand and business.

Cee: What's the meaning behind the name iDJ Photography?

Darren: The meaning behind the name iDJ is: i: Eye (being the obvious tool I use in my line of work), D: Darren and J: Johnson.

Cee: Do you have a mentor? Did you take a course? Or are you self-taught? Or a combination?

Darren: I don't really have a mentor other than the my teacher from the course I took in 2007. Ever since then I have been learning as I go along, reasearching etc.

Cee: You're based outta London (England, not Ontario for those in Canada). How's the market out there? Is there a lot of competition? What makes you different from the thousands of other photographers?

Darren: London is very saturated with photographers. Being a photographer in London is a challenge but at the same time London is quite possibly the best place to photograph. In terms of what makes me different from the rest? I'm not sure, I don't really focus on other photographers with their marketing, etc. I just aim to produce my best work, good value for money and a quick turn around for my clients. This has worked for me so far which has reflected on the glowing references I recieve.

Cee: Out of all the various styles and subjects that you do, what's your favourite to work with?

Darren: My favourite 'shots' are the ones where I could be watching TV or walking to the store and an idea pops in my head and I run with it. I call this my "misc" album, which you can see on my website or Facebook. I do genuinely enjoy all styles of photography, I still get that buzz no matter what/who I photograph.

Cee: What would be your main inspiration as a photographer?

Darren: My inspiration was my trip to Jamaica in 2008! I just bought my first SLR before flying out to Jamaica and fell in love with photography, which was aided with being in such a beautiful country.

Cee: What made you pick up a camera to express your creative side, as opposed to say a paintbrush or a guitar?

Darren: I honestly don't know the answer that one. I believe life gives you opportunities, and I just simply took this one.

Cee: If you could have any other talent, what would it be?

Darren: It would 100% be a professional football (soccer) player. Football is a big passion for me, I try and watch as much as I can no matter where I am.

Cee: What's next once you get back from JA?

Darren: Same as before I left, keep pushing the business a much as I can. Working hard on images, ideas, marketing, networking, delivery, etc.

Cee: Let the people know where they can find you!

Darren: Website: www.idjphotography.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/idjphotos

Cee: Thanks for your time cuz!

Darren: Thank you!

Model Feature - Lauren Hoyte

Yet another model feature...they're becoming more and more regular these days, and the quality is getting better every time. Miss Lauren Hoyte hit us up, and we were so very glad that she did. This stunning young lady already has an extremely impressive resume, and her hustle and grind is taking her on the path to stardom. Check out our interview after the jump...

Cee: What’s your name? Lauren: Lauren Hoyte.

Cee: Where are you from? Lauren: My ethnicity is Trinidadian however I am from New Jersey.

Cee: How many years have you been modeling? Lauren: I've been modeling on a consistent basis for about 2 years.

Cee: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue? Lauren: That models are not intelligent..SO NOT TRUE! Many of us have brains too, not just beauty!

Cee: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in? Lauren: Hair magazines like Hype Hair, Braids & Beauty, and Urban book cover, The Source Magazine, TV/Video- All My Children, "Law & Order", "Ugly Betty", MTV and FUSE TV and a featured guest on a special 2-day episode on the Tyra Banks Show discussing Women & Body Image; Small roles on Films like Duplicity starring Julia Roberts, Clive Owen and others, Brooklyn's Finest starring Wesley Snipes and Notorious. Also, I had an amazing experience working on the Roc-A-Wear 10th anniversary commercial featuring Jay-Z and directed by the well renowned Spike Lee!!

Cee: What photographers have you worked with? Lauren: I've worked with so many excellent photographers...to mention just a few, Keith Major, Berman Fenelus, Frank Antonio, Itaysha, John Ricard, Phazion and so much more.

Cee: What photographers would you like to work with? Lauren: I’m willing to work with anyone that shows interest in working with me. There are so many amazingly creative photographers. I’m open to new concepts and/or any upcoming projects.

Cee: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry? Lauren: You have to be able to handle criticism and rejection and realize that opportunities won't come along and fall into your lap. You have to stay motivated to go out there and get it!

Cee: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry? Lauren: Stay consistent and although it sounds cliché, never give up on your dreams! Strive to be your best because I strongly believe that Dreams and Determination are really a POWERFUL combination!

Cee: What's your plans from here? Lauren: You can look for me in magazines, advertising campaigns for clothing or cosmetics, TV commercials, pilots and working toward ultimately a billboard ad. Also I am currently working with an acting coach to prepare for any upcoming acting opportunities ahead, since I am currently SAG-eligible and will be joining SAG soon.

Cee: Hit us with your contact details for folks who want to see more! Lauren: Website coming soon but until then stay tuned for updates on www.myspace.com/njmodellauren.

Model Feature - Jayde Elkington

The rumours definitely aren't true. New Zealand BEEN had hot chicks. Don't front.

The second model from our brethren over the Tasman is Miss Jayde Elkington, who was kind enough to chat to us about her modelling and hit y'all with some fresh flicks.

Cee: Whatʼs your name?
Jayde: Jayde Elizabeth Elkington

Cee: Where are you from?
Jayde: Nelson, New Zealand

Cee: How many years have you been modeling?
Jayde: I have been doing a bit of modeling for about five years now and have also been dancing since the age of six.

Cee: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Jayde: One would be that they are very high maintenance which I think is untrue! Most models that I have met and worked with have been really laid back and down to earth.

Cee: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Jayde: L'Oreal Talent Spotting, Remix Magazine, Images Magazine, Osprey Boats MTV, C4

Cee: What photographers have you worked with?
Jayde: Grant Stirling, Carly Ave, Daniel Allen, Glen Bisdee – all from Nelson, NZ, Angela Henderson, Lauretta Goode from Auckland, NZ.

Cee: What photographers would you like to work with?
Jayde: Would love to do some more work with Angela Henderson. She’s a great photographer, and very encouraging.

Cee: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Jayde: Learning to be able to handle rejection and to be persistent.

Cee: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Jayde: Always be yourself, stay strong and be confident.

Cee: What's your plans from here?
Jayde: Would love to go traveling overseas.

Cee: Hit us with your contact details for folks who want to see more!
Jayde: jayde_elkington@hotmail.com, Facebook

Model Cherelle J Extras

Now that school is out my homegirl the lovely Ms. Cherelle J is on the grind. Check out these new photos they are fresh off the press.

Model Mondays Feature: Sashia Summers

Originating from the beautiful reggae island of Jamaica, Sashia has relocated and now resides in the UK. The recent years have seen her growth and maturity in the modeling industry with her recent signing to Femelle, one of the UK's leading Urban Model Agencies. With her portfolio boasting an ever expanding array of shoots and assignments with video features including Tinchy Stryder's 'Rollin' and Millionaire Boyz’ 'She's a Hustler', Sashia is heading for nothing but success. An independent, reliable, focused yet easy-going individual Sashia goes for what she wants. With her Barbie-Doll figure, sensual looks and bubbly personality Sashia brings glamour, professionalism, and diversity to every assignment.

DJ Grain: What’s your name?
Sashia: Sashia Summmers.

DJ Grain: Where are you from?
Sashia: Montego Bay, Jamaica but I reside in London, UK.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?
Sashia: Years (LOL). A relatively short period.

DJ Grain:What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Sashia:That we’re all airheads or shallow, and rely purely on our looks, we’re all the same in real life as we are on print or in videos (they don't understand that in front of the camera we’re in character mode), and that we are all available.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Sashia: Tinchy Stryder's 'Rollin' and Millionaire Boyz’ 'She's a Hustler'.

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?
Sashia: Kosher of Femelle Studios, Vic Morley, Daniel Rachev of Juice Magazine UK and Sean Hickey.

DJ Grain: What photographers would you like to work with?
Sashia: David LaChapelle, Matthew Jordan Smith, Frizzy Q, Maya Guez, Marques Klinko... the list is endless.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Sashia: HARD, NON-STOP HUSTLE. Continuous networking and trying to connect with the right people in the right places. Swimming through the smoke-screens and mirror operations of all these fraudulent so-called agents, managers and artists that want to feature but for no pay. It’s important to build your brand and let people know that you’re out there, so initially you have to do a lot of free jobs to build a profile and then you must start to withdraw and only work on select high profile projects. At the same time you’ve still got to continue to direct traffic to your own website. That’s the hustle.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Sashia: Yeah, sure. I’m always happy to offer help or advice. Stay focused, be original and have a clear understanding and knowledge of what kind of modeling it is you want to get involved in. It’s very easy to get exploited in this industry and get side-tracked from your original goal. Do your research and get an insight on what other models have to share. Also I think its very important to invest in yourself in all areas of self nails, hair, skin, physique and attire. You need to be on point in these areas so take time on your appearance and how you conduct yourself. Some of these things may cost money but remember you have to spend money to make money.

DJ Grain: How can people contact you for booking?
Sashia: Hit me on my emails: sashi2nice@hotmail.com and kosher@femelle.co.uk. WEBSITE COMING SOON

Model Mondays Feature: Jasmine Santiago

This week I am prod to present to you all the Latin beauty Ms. Jasmine Santiago. She hails from the Boogie Down Bronx, but now lives in the MIA. For those of you all have never been to Miami, I swear it is hard to find a person that is not in shape. Every where you go everyone looks like a model or potential actor. Ms. Santiago took a minute out of her busy schedule to drop some info on the industry from her point of view. Check out the interview below...and stay tuned this week because we are dropping two features for y'all!!!

DJ Grain: Where are you from?
Jasmine: Born and raised in the Bronx, NYC.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?
Jasmine: This is my first year.

DJ Grain: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Jasmine: That we are idiots! On the contrary, I am a very intelligent woman.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Jasmine: None at the moment, I am new the modeling world!

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?
Jasmine: I have worked with Mohawk J a.k.a MJ and Tori T from Eyecandy Modeling.

DJ Grain: What photographers would you like to work with?
Jasmine: I would love to work with Benhur, Unique "MAICOL" and Derrick G to name a few.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Jasmine: Well, to start I get no sleep, I always find myself at events, conferences, video/photo shoots etc., whatever I can do to meet new folks to network with and also do anything to put my name out there.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Jasmine: Go hard or go home!

DJ Grain: How can people contact you for booking?
Jasmine: You can contact me several ways either through MySpace: Imperial Dollz or Jasmine Santiago, and for booking and info you can call 786-544-0443.

Model Mondays Feature: Arkeedah McCormick

This week it is my pleasure to present Ms. Arkeedah, reppin the ATL to the fullest. She represents a different type of model that a lot of folks may not be so familiar with. Besides doing runway shows and promotional events, she is a 'hair model'. These fearless young ladies that are hair models are a unique group, they have to trust that the individual doing their hair will do a good job and not have them looking jacked up in front of audience. Ms. Arkeedah took some time out of her busy schedule to chat with me about the modeling industry and drop some knowledge for young ladies thinking of being models. Check out the interview below.

DJ Grain: Where are you from?
Arkeedah: Atlanta, GA.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?
Arkeedah: 3 years.

DJ Grain: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Arkeedah: The most common one I deal with is people automatically assume I have an attitude, but when people get to know me, they find out I’m a pretty cool person.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Arkeedah: Maxim, Online Bonus Babe 2007, MTV’s Yo Momma Extra 03-2007, Aanaya Couture Fashion Show July 19 2007, Bronner Brother’s FHI Heat Hair Show Technical Model 8-20-2007, Milky Way Hair Battle Model 8-04-2008, Mychael Knight Model for Fall Line Presentation 2008,Karl Kani New Face Top 20 Finalist, and Hotlanta Hair Directory Volume 5.

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?
Arkeedah: Reggie Anderson, Sta'fon Shamayim, and Precise.

DJ Grain: What photographers would you like to work with?
Arkeedah: I would love to work with Derek Blanks and Leo Marshall.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Arkeedah: One word, HUSTLE. Webster definition: promote energetically and aggressive. You have to know where you want to go, and have a plan on how to get there.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Arkeedah: Stay motivated and if you have the drive to pursue it, then do it!

DJ Grain: How can people contact you for booking?
Arkeedah: I can be reached via email @ Arkeedah McCormick

Model Mondays Feature: Ms. Innocence

Tiana better known as Ms. Innocence is an up incoming 23 yr old model from Springfield, MA. An exotic mix of African American, Columbian, and Native American (mother is African American and Columbian, father is Cherokee Indian), making men who love their thick chicks look twice. More than just a pretty face and a woman of many talents, Ms. Innocence has a degree in nursing as well as being a trained tattoo artist, helping co-start and run one of the top tattoo businesses in her area.

Even with her impressive background, she still decided to pursue a career in modeling. With 12 tattoos and counting, and a unique look and style, Ms. Innocence has graced Hip Hop websites and magazines such as www.heelznwheelz.com "Eye Candy of The Month", In Da Streetz Magazine, Chambermaids Magazine, and Thinking Big Productions "Eye Candy" for December.

Ms. Innocence has also made a name for herself in the alternative fashion/fetish modeling scene, modeling for such sites as Suicide Girls, Deviant Nation and will be a new face on www.BellaVendetta.com. Making her mark on the modeling scene, Ms. Innocence shows that even covered in tattoos you can still be sexy and successful in this industry.

DJ Grain: What’s your name?
Ms. Innocence: My name is Tiana, but everyone knows me as Innocence.

DJ Grain: Where are you from?
Ms. Innocence: Springfield, MA.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?
Ms. Innocence: I have been modeling for two years.

DJ Grain: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Ms. Innocence: That we're a bunch of coked up video hoes who have no intelligence and just get by on our looks and sleeping around.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Ms. Innocence: I've done a lil of everything, being featured on such websites as; *HeelznWheelz.com, *Thinkin Big Productions- Eye Candy of the Month. I've been working with Baby Bam from the Jungle Brothers on his new up incoming DVD, a follow up to "Bamboozled", as well as promotions for Maxim Lingerie, Conceited Clothing and Deviant Nation.

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?
Ms. Innocence: I've worked with a lot of great photographers such as Peter Manic, ShredBoy Studios, JRCreative, SGHockett Photography, and Del Knight.

DJ Grain: What photographers would you like to work with?
Ms. Innocence: There's a few I would love the chance to work with and that's Ryan O'Nash, Frank Antonio, EMC photography, and Caliber Photography.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Ms. Innocence: The grind of a model never ends, whether it taking care of yourself (exercising, skin care, hair care, etc.), endless networking and photo shoots to get your name out there and working hard to have a career that lasts.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Ms. Innocence: Don't let no one tell you you're not model material, work hard and keep pushing. Just because someone might say no doesn't mean you wont succeed, or that they don't like your look it just means you have to keep working hard 'til they're ready for someone like you in the industry.

DJ Grain: How can people contact you for booking?
Ms. Innocence: msinnocence@yahoo.com or Ms. Innocence Myspace Page.

The Movement Fam Model Feature: Regina Ross

The grind-a-holic Ms. Regina Ross has taken a minute out of her busy schedule to chop it up with ya main man DJ Grain. Not only is she a model but she also a student and CEO of a magazine publication that focuses on spoken word poetry.

DJ Grain: Where are you from?
Regina Ross: I am from South Carolina, born in a town called Sumter and raised in the capitol, which is Columbia.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?
Regina Ross: I have been modeling for 15 years.

DJ Grain: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?
Regina Ross: Some misconceptions that people may have about models is we are not very intellectual and that we have to be a certain size or height. Models come in all shapes and sizes, I consider a model a person who has something to market physically or mentality wise. I myself have many talents. I write poetry and I am in the process of publishing my own magazine for spoken word artist. Poets Serenity is one of my biggest projects because I have been writing much longer than modeling. I am also going to school for Medical Billing and Coding, which is a stable career choice I have made to maintain learning something new in the medical field, as it consistently changes all the time.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?
Regina Ross: Some of the shows I have been involved in was as a promotional model for a show Dungeon Family's own Backbone did back in South Carolina at the Coliseum; I was a featured model for a show UrbMob did at Lotus Lounge for new and upcoming artists. I also did a commercial for Pin Strikes Bowling Alley, MTV's Album release party for T.I. at the Velvet Room. Fashion shows by Elegante, House of Style By Monique, LaChic Hair Studio, BBK Apparrel, Ruff Ryders Film Casting for The System Within, Black Experience Magazine, and various modeling competitions by international model and talent search companies.

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?
Regina Ross: I have worked recently with Thad Fauster, D. Divine, J.W. Enterprises, JandD Images, K. Jones, Glamour Shots Promotional Model, and the list goes on...

DJ Grain: What photographers would you like to work with?
Regina Ross: I would love to work with Essence Magazine, Elite, Sean John, Baby Phat, Whilemenia, Black Barbies, Sean Anthony Photography, Leo Marshall, Ms. B. Breezy, XOXO. I would like to work with so many people, it would probably take all day to just name them all. But I would most definitely love to work with some of the top marketing agencies.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?
Regina Ross: The grind of modeling is persistence and taking the time out to go out and network and market yourself, so people can get a feel of your personality because they are not always looking for that look - sometimes they want to see what your personality is like. And I feel like if you're a go getter than you can reach the goals you set. Going on photo shoots, open calls, networking, and just putting your foot forward to the work you have already invested time into. I feel like you can only do what God will allow you to do at that moment in your life, but patience and persistence will pay off eventually.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?
Regina Ross: Simply to just know God has your back and have faith. If you're a single parent and out here trying to do your thing, keep pushing and keep praying. I know what it's like, God is not blind and definitely not asleep. Stick with your dreams and don't give up when it gets hard you get stronger, and you learn to be thankful for the good and the bad to cherish and endure all the blessings he has in store for you as you go through all the trials.

Contact info:
Regina Ross Myspace
modelreginaross@live.com

The Movement Fam Model Feature: Ayanna G.

I have finally have been able to catch with my homegirl, Ms. Ayanna G, who is a behind the desk corporate lady by day, and by night she is a hardworking promo model that stays on the grind.

DJ Grain: Where are you from?

Ayanna: I currently reside in Atlanta , GA.

DJ Grain: How many years have you been modeling?

Ayanna: About 5 years.

DJ Grain: What are the misconceptions people commonly have about models that are untrue?

Ayanna: That models are stupid, lazy or incompetent. I’ve never really understood the reasoning behind incompetent. Sure, you may think that someone who doesn’t have a traditional job may be lazy or less than intelligent. But that doesn’t mean that they are totally incapable of having a 9 to 5.

DJ Grain: What shows, videos, magazines, etc. have you been featured in?

Ayanna: I have worked with Sophisticate’s Black Hair Magazine, various liquor brands and I was feature in an episode of the dating show “Elimidate”.

DJ Grain: What photographers have you worked with?

Ayanna: J. Knorr, Shawn Dowdell, Craig Sims, Drexina Nelson, Paul Lawson, DeWayne Hathaway, Leo Marshall, Gary McCutchins.

DJ Grain: What photographer(s) would you like to work with?

Ayanna: Derek Blanks.

DJ Grain: Can you describe the grind of a model trying to break into the industry?

Ayanna: Lots of rejection and standing in lines. Loads of photo shoots to practice, build your portfolio and network. You’ll meet some of the most interesting and fum people in this industry.

DJ Grain: Any words for the ladies out there that have aspirations of entering the modeling industry?

Ayanna: Stay positive. Know yourself and your boundaries BEFORE you get in front of the camera. Stay away from the scammers. Have fun and stay healthy.