Vintage Ventures the adventures of a vintage soul…
This was my first full-scale vintage photography project. I wanted to capture a visual language that melded the vintage feel of art nouveau with the more modern concept of photography. During the days before the shoot I looked over a few portraits of Marilyn Monroe. Perhaps this was an influence, too. I love the feel and look old films and old paintings as well as modern art. I think the shoot was a mix of that and the fact every time you open your eyes you’ve got a new situation which can inspire you, in its own way. I think you have to build up a connection with the model and create a special atmosphere between you and the model. It helps a lot when the model is able to forget she’s on a photoshoot and can relax.
Credits
Photography by Charles Andre Thomas
Styling by London Alyse
Hair & Makeup by Tinaya Weems
Model – Rachel Jordan
The combination of personalties from everyone on the set of “Vintage Ventures” and the artistic vibes from the designers, MUA & photographer filled the entire set with creativity!
Socialite and DEMIS EMMIR gave me the stretch of versatility that I absolutely love the exercise. Charles definitely has an eye for photography and the passion is proven in the film. This experience added a well needed classical shade on my timeline. From the videos to the photos, this shoot has added a necessary stamp in Chicago photography. To work in such an atmosphere definitely left a print on my motivation. This shoot has been a mirror in my career.
I entered the modeling world known for my Mohawk and I was labeled “Vicki Valencourt” because of the rebellious hairstyle tied into the rebellious character, Vicki Valencourt, from the movie, Waterboy. When I was first introduced into the world of modeling, it was by accident. Yes, cliche. I had no intention for modeling until The Black Carpet Fashion Show. I went into the audition with a friend and was asked to complete a form and walk. I figured it could fun whether if I got the gig or not. One month later, the show began and I had so much fun and I saw myself in a completely different lens. I finally felt exactly how I look. During the show, photographer Andrew Thomas Clifton was scouting for a modeling for a photo shoot the next day. I was approached by clothing designer, Charles Thomas and was asked to take a picture. After that, Andrew chose me. I’d never thought that the night of my first fashion show, I would be offered a photo shoot from a professional, PASSIONATE photographer. Not knowing what to expect, I agreed. From there, I’ve been shot by photographer Charles Thomas of Charles Andre Thomas. After receiving such great direction from both photographers, I’ve remained exclusive to only a few fashion shows and an editorial spread in KISS Magazine.
“The only way to be beautiful, is to be yourself!” -V!V!
This was my first full-scale vintage photography project.I wanted to capture a visual language that melded the vintage feel of art nouveau with the more modern concept of photography. During the days before the shoot I looked over a few portraits of Marilyn Monroe. Perhaps this was an influence, too. I love the feel and look old films and old paintings as well as modern art. I think the shoot was a mix of that and the fact every time you open your eyes you’ve got a new situation which can inspire you, in its own way. I think you have to build up a connection with the model and create a special atmosphere between you and the model. It helps a lot when the model is able to forget she’s on a photo-shoot and can relax.
