As a photographer it was a refreshing experience to work with these women who are “real” women, but aren’t all women “real”?
In the landscape of cosmetics and photography, these women are not professional models paid to pose in front of the camera. Professional models work tremendously hard to make it all look effortless. These are women who work on the Black Opal brand in the offices and on the factory line who have a personal connection to Black Opal products. Who, by the way, DID make it look effortless.
We all went into the photoshoot unsure of the results and came out believing in our selves as individuals and a team. Some of our models had never been in front of a camera or on a set with hair and makeup, which could seem like poking and prodding to the outside observer. But they were in good hands, being drawn out from under their insecurities by gentle encouragement from myself, the make-up and hair stylists, and other supportive colleagues; letting them know that they really didn’t need much makeup because they really didn’t, nobody does. We were just highlighting their natural beauty.
We worked together to bring out their inner beauty, self-confidence, and spirit in the portraits we created. I found making a fool of myself didn’t hurt the process. As soon as they found that it was a safe space, the smiles and laughter came out. We quickly realized that no one feels confident and sexy in front of the camera with a whole crew surrounding you but the images captured, tell a different story. They truly brought the beauty and spirit to the brand and product line.
We gave them an opportunity to explore what beauty means to them. They were interviewed before and after their makeovers, their responses surprising and up-lifting.
STEPHANY
KALAHARI SAND
I define my beauty as Powerful and Confident.
Makeup to me means power. People put on a suit and feel powerful.
I feel that when I put makeup on it gives me confidence and power to take on the day.
MICHELLE
TOASTED CHESTNUT
I define my beauty as Vibrant and Alive.
Makeup brings confidence and it radiates through my smile, my poses.
That confidence makes me feel beautiful and accept that it’s ok to get out of my comfort zone.
NENE
EBONY BROWN
I define my beauty as Daring.
Makeup enhances your beauty. I’d encourage women my complexion to not only wear the right foundation, but also get out of the box and try bold, bright colors. Contrary to what I thought, they work well with our deep complexions.