Our story is an emotional journey through alternate realities. Throughout the journey Erin wardrobe reflects her emotions resulting from romance, sorrow, escape and despair.
I could sense the nature of the our surroundings interacting with Erin. It seemed as if she controlled time it self. Her body and energy moved in sync like I never seen before. It was a great experience.
I enjoy creating intense pictures which form an unique atmosphere. In fashion film you can focus more on styling and make up, departments which normally don’t get so much attention but have a huge impact on the visual qualities of the film.
“It’s about capturing those perfect moments” Saturate Me simply is that. Showing how the blends of color and black and white with the inspirational textures of sheer, highlighted by strong flash and contrast.
“Rouge -a playfully mischievous person. I wanted to capture Vicki in a different setting than what she has shot before something raw and rebellious. And she fell right into character the shots and video told a story that anyone will be able to comprehend. Most of my inspiration comes from music, and I try my best to put the feeling I get from it into my work. I hope it shows.“
On the set of Rogue, I was able to fall into my zone. It’s been a while since I had a photoshoot and as soon as the finishing touches were complete, I fell into my character. Meeting the other artists, Candice and Rocky (MUA & hairstylist), for the first time I loved their vibes very peaceful but yet very spunky. They kept the laughter going and made every moment a sensation. Working in front of the photographer, Charles, is always a pleasure. Once my character was created the hunt was on. In 100 degree weather, in leather, I was able to deliver.
-Vicki Valencourt (Model)
My experience working with Ms. Vicki Valencourt on set was phenomenal to say the least. It was a very creative one. Charles Thomas(mr.creatistic himself ) is a very unique photographer. He finds locations beyond your beliefs to create something out of nothing.His photography turns swamp water into blue oceans. A field of ragweed and wilted daisy’s into a blossoming flower patch, and a deserted parking area into a models playground. Of course without an openminded and creative model this could not work, and that is where Ms. Vicki showed her true colors. A model so motivated and comfortable with her surroundings. She worked the camera like never before. It was so liberating for me as a professional hairstylist so see such energy. I’ve worked with so many different models and not all are the same. Each one has there own energy. Some more than others. Vicki has her own style about her. She stands in front of the camera and…….Work! This shoot was raw, yet tasteful. Edgy,yet subtle ,and playfully mischievous. Something I have to experience once again!
-Crimsom Hair (Hair Stylist)
My contribution in creating “Rogue” was the styling of Vicki. I was very much in my element as I created this dark, yet sexy ensemble of leather, spiky rings and pretty silhouettes. We caused quite a scene as we shot in the hot Chicago weather and I kept hydrated as I made small alterations and primping during the set. Working with model, Vicki, photographer Charles Thomas and the rest of the crew was a fun and daring experience!
Lost In This World is about the journey of Colby (the model) and how she grows accustomed to all her surroundings. Colby is sophisticated but also in a world of her own. The story is a product of Colby’s endless gathering of inspiration, and her obsession with fashion.
“We combined a modern glam look with indie raw that gave us a unique and compelling story.”
This was the first shoot Charles Thomas and I worked on collectively. LOST IN THIS WORLD was a natural progression of genuine moments for me. He undeniably captured the fashion, style, and confidence in my displacement. Charles’ insight into my soul relates to many women who do not surrender, yet are lost, seeking their role in this world. This made it easy to become submissive to the camera.
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.
