The Two Eleven Chronicles

Ones to Watch: Seven Moore in the News!

2012-02-17T03:19:00.002-06:00

CBS affiliate WREG - Memphis ran a segment today called " Bright Spot" and highlighted our friend, premier Makeup Artist Seven Moore for his noteworthy work. To my surprise the video included highlights from one of our recent projects. Congratulations to Seven! His growth in the industry continues to inspire. Take a look at the video!

The Artistik Approach to Music

2011-12-19T20:24:00.003-06:00

I've had the pleasure of witnessing a dynamic group of musicians live and in concert. Artistik Approach is Eso on vocals, Siphne on vocals/beatbox and in this instance Dick Solomon as the lyric maestro. Photos from their set at Young Ave Deli are HERE Check them out...

Ones to watch... Justin

2011-08-14T00:38:00.007-05:00

I met Justin Dabner through a mutual friend and soon decided that I wanted to work with him. Long story short, a few sessions over a few weeks and over a month of editing (!) led to the photos below. Justin is super cool, silly as hell and very much into his craft.

He's got a versatile look, but in the spirit of summer, let's just stick with HOT!

Justin is available for photo shoot bookings. Serious inquires only, please!

Summer Heat feat. Najee

2011-08-14T00:15:00.006-05:00

My friend and model, Najee Strickland, and I ventured out into the sun (literally 104 deg in the shade!) the other day to try out some ideas for his clothing brand Heartless and Co. We've got a great concept for the next Heartless campaign and the launch of some great new items in his fashion line.

In the meantime, check out some of images we slaved over a hot sidewalk for:

For more hot work from this cool guy, check out his Facebook fan page, The Gentlemen.

New Studio Event: Industria 8/16/11, 6-8pm

2011-08-13T23:59:00.005-05:00

Hi All,
Just a quick reminder that our next event is coming up Tuesday August 16th, 6-8pm:

Industria.

This is a networking event co-sponsored by KP Fusion for those in the fashion industry and related fields. All photographers, models, graphic designers, MUA's hair and clothing stylists, boutique owners, fashionistas, bloggers and anyone else with a link to the fashion world are invited to attend!

INDUSTRIA:
'Not your typical fashion networking event

This will be networking at it's best, a chance for you to meet someone new and most importantly make a connection that could take your endeavors to all new levels. We will be shooting head shots live for any camera -ready models in attendance. Print and cd images available onsite for a nominal fee. Additionally we will have tips and tricks from some industry pros. Very informal so bring your biz cards and questions with you!

Spread the word! Hope to see you here!

TARRICE LOVE - PHOTOGRAPHER: INSIGHT INTO ME pt.1: MEMPHIS, TN ...Represent to ...

2011-07-10T00:22:00.000-05:00

Reposting from the blog of one of my favorite photographers, who also happens to be a friend.

TARRICE LOVE - PHOTOGRAPHER: INSIGHT INTO ME pt.1: MEMPHIS, TN ...Represent to ...: "Recently I took a much deserved break from the hustle/bustle of NYC and went back home to get dose of southern love from my family and f..."

Ones to Watch...Najee

2011-06-11T17:47:00.004-05:00

Presenting talented and handsome Najee K Strickland.

The Gentleman

Najee is a rising star model, CEO and Chief Designer of his own clothing line, Heartless and Co., and an all around great person. I've had the pleasure of working with him for the past year or so and we've created some incredible photos which you can see below.

He's been working on some new projects including a recent shoot at our very own Aquarius Creative Studio that I think you will love. Check him out on Facebook. Like, comment, and show love to this incredible guy! More to come soon...

Model Ava Martin

2011-05-17T12:35:00.003-05:00

I've had the pleasure of working with one of Memphis' finest rising star models, Ava Martin, for the past few months. She is fun, full of energy, always ready for a shoot and never shy for bringing the vision into reality. Here are a few outtakes (and one extra!) from a photo session/ interview Ava had with KPFusion's own Kim Thomas:

To read the interview and see more of Model Ava Martin check out KPFusion's blog

To see great work by Ava Martin visit her website here: http://www.avamartinmodel.com

New

2011-05-16T22:50:00.001-05:00

Are you ready for a new post?

Very exciting news

2011-02-02T15:44:00.001-06:00

We were just tapped to work on a new project. Very big deal indeed. Can't wait to tell everyone about it. Stay tuned!

KP FUSION Features our photos!

2011-01-04T14:48:00.004-06:00

Big thanks out to KP Fusion for featuring some of our photos on their high profile fashion blog. I'm glad to have the opportunity to work with Kim on this and hopefully some future posts.
Check it out HERE!

A BIG Thank You!

2010-12-23T01:27:00.005-06:00

Thanks to all who were able to attend our Holiday Open House!

We had a great time, took some great photos and most importantly gathered a sizable donation for the Mid-South Food Bank. Quite a few networking connections were made too with the diverse group of talented artists, business owners, musicians and entrepreneurs in attendance.

Please look for our next events to be announced soon.

SonofEllis - Artist

Thandiwe Deshazor - Actor/Writer

Aquarius Creative Studio Open House - Dec 19, 2010 - 1pm

2010-12-16T01:09:00.008-06:00

Open House ONLY – (1) 8x10 photo or digital file FREE

Ok, ok… kinda free...

In the spirit of the holidays I decided not to charge for these, and instead accept whatever you feel it’s worth. ANY amount you give is OK. I’ll gladly donate my talent if you’ll help us make Aquarius Creative Studio even better with your contribution. Trust me I will not discriminate…heck I won’t even count it till you’re gone!

So here’s how it works:

· Join our contact list (name, email, physical address, phone) – no spam just reminders and thank you’s!
· Get you or your group ready - I’ll help with posing, etc.
· I’ll pick a setting and take 2-10 photos, select the photo (Artist’s Choice), edit and print
· You get to take it home! (one print per person or group please – additional prints can be mailed for a nominal fee! Additional emails are free.)

This is at least a $100 value, so please take advantage of the offer.

ADDED BONUS: If you make at least a $20 donation and sign a release to let us use your photo for our studio portfolio, I’ll include it in our Aquarius Creative Studio Collage project, name you as a studio supporter AND make a $1 donation to The American Diabetes Association in your honor.

But wait! There’s more!

I know this is going out to some people who will be out of town or live outside the Memphis area. Many of you are already supporters of the studio and I appreciate you very much. We have great (and by great I also mean costly) things planned for the studio so if you make a donation for our Open House celebration I’ll extend the mini shoot offer to you as well for the next time you’re in Memphis or I’m in your area!

Updates coming soon

2010-08-03T14:31:00.001-05:00

Hi All,
We have been super busy in the studio with photo and video shoots, some interior improvements and other goodies for you all. Check back in the next few days for some big announcements...
Giggidy! (for all you Family Guy fans)

One down, 4 more to go!

2010-04-11T19:04:00.013-05:00

We had a great time at our first event in the new place, Aquarius Creative Studio! Wish you all could have been there. Don't worry, for those who could not make it there will be plenty of opportunities for you to redeem yourselves!

We started with some great food and wine at our Tapas and Wine Tasting last Thursday night. Our resident Chef Stan and visiting Chef Ira made some incredible dishes. Stan came with Italian and Alfredo Meatballs that were sinful, mini shrimp salads, and the best Grilled Cheese Sandwich you have ever put in your mouth. Ira gave us Grilled Chicken Wings in two flavors and a Grilled Lamb as a passed hors d'oeuvre.

Kiss my Grilled Cheese!

We had 6 different varieties of wine to complement the dishes. Favorites seemed to be the Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling and the Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay, although the Mirasou Pinot Noir had several fans.

The photography on display was graciously donated by some of Memphis' best, including classic canvas prints by Norman Gilbert, large scale avant garde images from S Julian and some amazing travel series photographs by Jake Morrow. Each of these photographer's work would be a fantastic addition for any collector.

As part of our mission, Aquarius Creative Studio likes to shine a light on up and coming talent. This show included works by Young. Fly. Richy. who is making waves in the hip-hop scene as a "one-to-work-with" artist. We also featured new works from Jermel Tucker. Ziggy Mack as he is known in his regular profession as a top nightlife and music event photographer, decided to stretch a bit for this show with some thought provoking editorial shots. We're proud to offer our artistic support to these emerging artists.

Thanks to everyone who made this event a great night. Camille, Shani, Kai Cai London and S Julian each deserve more thanks than I can give for their continuing support.

Check out more images from the event HERE

Our first event in the New Studio!

2010-04-05T01:54:00.002-05:00

Letting go...

2010-01-08T01:47:00.004-06:00

Truth and reality in art do not arise until you no longer understand what you are doing and are capable of, but nevertheless sense a power that grows in proportion to your resistance. ~ Henri Matisse

Today marks Day 23 of the birth of our new studio. The name will be announced later on in an "Official sounding, in your face, mind-blowing, significant and important special update press release!" but for now we'll just call it...home. Where photography lives.

As I was working with my assistant to prime the walls for a fresh coat of "primal white" paint, two things occurred to me...

1. This is a huge room.
2. I'm a photographer, dag-nabit it! What am I doing painting a room?

I've come to realize that I love the hands-on approach to everything. Trouble is, I only have two hands.

Any of you who have ever started, worked with or thought about the entrepreneurial way of life are surely rolling your eyes right about now. "When will he learn??" you might be saying. "You've got to let go and allow others into your vision for it to grow." I know...I know! Please forgive me.

This studio is all about sharing the joy of photography with the world. It's about inviting other photographers and artists in and allowing their vision to grow and spread throughout our community and to the rest of the world. I'm letting go...This moment. Right now. The future beckons and we will answer.

Photography is about to take a giant leap forward in our community. This studio is going to push that wave in ways even I cannot begin to imagine...

Inspiration or Aspiration?

2009-12-03T08:41:00.000-06:00

It's time...

And now for something completely different... Part 2

2009-10-23T11:10:00.002-05:00

Thanks for your patience as we embark on a new venture that is sure to rock the Memphis scene. Be prepared for some great news in the next few days. Camille, Jeremy, LaDerrick and I have been working hard to put together something we feel is much needed in the Memphis area. We hope you like it and will help support our enterprise.

New Update coming October 25th!

In the meantime, here's a link to the recent Urban Fashion Week Memphis Event, sponsored by MemphisLiveEntertainment.com and Studio Two Eleven!

http://pa.photoshelter.com/c/dbwillmedia

Quote for the Day

2009-10-08T23:50:00.001-05:00

If you want to live a life without regret, you shouldn't do things that are regrettable.

Music and More

2009-06-24T12:16:00.005-05:00

Every once in a while you come across someone with a warm and genuine spirit. Someone who struggles with the same human foils and foibles as you and I, yet still manages to smile and uplift and appreciate those they come in contact with. Over the past several months I've had brief exchanges with someone who always has a positive word to say and a smile in her heart. On top of that she is becoming a top notch bassist! Here are some photos to introduce you to Joy Okoth...

Joy is also a stellar singer with the group Adajyo, recent winners of the 2009 Gospel Bridge Award, Group of the Year. They performed with Kw'est on their monthly show at Neil's on Madison in Memphis. For more on Kw'est and photos go to Kw'est Productions . Enjoy!

Worth thinking about...

2009-05-03T01:01:00.004-05:00

"We don't make a photograph just with a camera; we bring to the act of photography all the books we have read, the movies we have seen, the music we have heard, the people we have loved". -Ansel Adams

DC... Part Deux

2009-01-28T17:04:00.021-06:00

After a few days of doing my part to get rid of a cold contracted from my DC travels, I said to myself , "Enough is enough!" and found the strength to update the blog. Thanks to all of you who continue to look for updates well beyond their expected date (and chastise me too in the process).

So I've shared with you all how wonderful and moving the whole DC-Inauguration-Celebration thing was, but there was a lot more to my trip than just the official events. I'll get to those too, but for now I want to tell you about some other things that happened. I got to hang out with some very good friends, got to meet some new friends and got to take what I think are very cool photos in some places I was introduced to by said friends. Overall the experience was well worth it. I can't wait for my next adventures. So much to photograph, so little time...

First of all I have to thank Ken for being an incredible host. He is a true friend and master of the Mojito. I'm a lightweight so I can only handle one... at a time, that is... outstanding!

Before and After

He'll probably kill me for posting his photo, but I like to live dangerously... This photo just reminds me of his friendly disposition and personality. He's one of the genuine best.

Next, up another friend I've grown to cherish. Believe it or not we've known each other for over 10 years now and this is the first time we've actually been in the same room together. Zun is one of those people you start a conversation with and you feel like you've known them all your life. This was one of those rare moments when all the hype is brought to reality... AND you are pleasantly surprised! Zun is top notch.

As it turned out he happened to be staying about 8 min from where I was. Imagine that. Obama really is the Great Uniter, aye? (Zun is Canadian..get it? Aye?... never mind.)

More photos below and ...

Happiness... camera, good food, iPhone...

The crowds before the Inauguration

A cool song I heard playing near the National Mall. I got one if anyone wants to hear it.

Very good Italian food.

18th Street Lounge. Best.Music.Ever.

Want to see more? Click here

Wow

2009-01-23T11:29:00.007-06:00

So. First things first, I missed my flight back from our nation's capitol. This was a new experience for me, despite the fact that I have had many chances to miss flights before. Missed the plane by ten minutes.
The ticket agent, very much Whoopie Goldberg-ish, only looking less "celebrity" and more "not another late passenger trying to ruin my nap" eventually helped me find a new flight...the next day!
So having been delayed I thought I would show you all some of the photos I took during one of the greatest events of my life. I really did witness history in person!

Wow.

Annnd... (*wink* at Camille) no matter how you feel philosophically about our new President, this will be a defining moment in American history. This is the moment that life as we know it in these United States changed forever. For good? Would we really let an opportunity to create the nation we want slip through our fingers over pettiness, ideological differences or inaction? Those things seem pretty small compared to the monumental acts of altruism, compassion and strength Americans have brought forth throughout our very brief history.

I remain hopeful. On to the photos...

Barack Obama is EVERYwhere:

Can you imagine our new President doing the samba?

This one took me aback for some reason.

Part Two tomorrow

I'm a Travellin' Man

2009-01-13T01:08:00.018-06:00

I have been truly blessed to be able to go to many of the places I love. 2008 took me to several destinations that I will be showcasing over the next few weeks.

First off New York City. I think NYC is one of the greatest cities on earth. The energy, the people and that sense of immediacy you get just walking the city are intoxicating. I'm sure as a visitor to the city I have a very different take on how life really is. Daily living must be as challenging as in any other city, if not more so. But for me the experience is like no other. This is not a fish-out-of-water view either. I've been to many places and seen many things.

Mardi Gras in New Orleans, circa 2001 comes to mind! You know who you are...

But NYC is a city I could visit any time and know that I would meet the most fascinating people and have the most fun ever. Everything you could possibly want in one place. Amazing.

Anyway, you all know I can go on like this for days, but I'll spare you and just show a few of the hundreds of images I took there. Enjoy.

Times Square

Yes, I DID have to do some shopping. Just doing my part to stimulate the economy!

The street vendors had some really cool things for sale. If you like the product and you are able, support their efforts. Most were exceptionally nice to talk to.

You never know who you will run into in NYC. This is Harry Benson, one of my all time favorite and most inspiring photographers. You're probably familiar with his work even if you don't know his name. To see why I was smiling so much at having met him, visit http://www.harrybenson.com. The saying goes "if there is an event of great importance going on, Harry Benson has already been there to cover it."

"McDonald's...The Musical!"

One of these things just doesn't belong here...

These young guys just seemed so happy and carefree. Reminded me of days gone by...

These cakes and assorted desserts are a must. Visit. Buy. Eat!
www.makemycake2.com

And finally, my favorite drink in my favorite city: Lemonade!

More to come...
DBW

Stumbling Blocks

2009-01-12T01:31:00.004-06:00

Hi All,
I apologize... one more day as I am having real server issues.

These are just stumbling blocks on the road to victory.

Here is what the week will hold:
New posts with previews of Paris, France and NYC
New post with shots from a dynamic music group I'm working with
On the road to Washington DC...I'm sooooo excited to be taking part in these events.

And a new server in place finally!

From my favorite city in the world~ Harlem, NYC Oct 2008

One more day...
DBW

New post tomorrow, system issues today

2009-01-11T00:09:00.003-06:00

Hi All...

Had a few system issues this week:
Installed a new network storage device
Culled through thousands of images from my travels this year
Installed new security and system maintenance software
All this took about 3 days so I'll be posting a new blog entry tomorrow with some new photos!

More to come...

Men and their toys....

2009-01-05T00:02:00.008-06:00

Hello All,
Welcome to my first official post of the new year. I am very enthused about the things to be in the coming months. Please check back often as I have lots to share.

You might be thinking the title of this posting is a bit odd for a photography blog.

Maybe.

I'll try to explain.

This post is actually about moving forward, something very important to my situation. We live in rapidly changing times. That indicates to me a need to change and grow in order to thrive. I recently visited a friend's new apartment. This is a first for him; living on his own, earning his own keep in the world so to speak. I know many of us can relate to that feeling of "ownership." Being able to call all the shots in your space, moving things around without resistance, eating straight from the fridge, being as loud or as quiet as you want to be for as long as you want to be... ahh the good times. That strange mix of exhilaration and trepidation is priceless. Right now you could push him over with a feather! It's also a time of heightened responsibility. But growth rarely comes without some type of challenge. Reality will set in one day, but for now he is loving every minute and I am watching with equal parts pride and shared excitement.

As I walked through his new space I came across this image:

Sure just a little something to make the space his own, a reminder that it is his to create in and personalize as he sees fit.

A toy? No a declaration!

I cannot wait to experience that high of ownership again. I am focusing all my efforts on getting the studio open as quickly as possible. The next few months will be lean and strictly business. But at the same time the most exhilarating and most fun I've ever had. My friend gave me a gift, one he knew I would love and keep. This gift will grow with me and help me get through the stressful times. It will give me something to focus on in those times when I am doubtful or anxious. It will give me something to play with when I am at my wits end trying to work my way out of the seemingly impossible situations that lie ahead. This gift is incredibly expensive, but he got it for nearly nothing and for that I am proud of him. He knew the value and immediately pounced on the opportunity. I took a picture:

I bet you thought the picture was of the gift he gave me.

It is, and it is fantastic! But that's not the gift I was describing. The gift he gave me was the gift of a renewed sense of hope, inspired by his taking action in uncertain times. These are the times we live in. If you are not experiencing it now, give it a minute. You will, or someone close to you will. Never lose hope. It is what you can lean on through the daily grind. I'm renewing my efforts to live the life of my dreams and I will gladly open my journey to all of you.

Yes, we men and women have our toys. They remind us that life is our playground.

DBW

2009-01-03T14:18:00.002-06:00

Hi All,
The new year brings great things to come for Studio Two Eleven. I had to make some adjustments from my last post concerning our new space. The details are too great to go into. Long story short the building management and I were not seeing eye to eye. That said, I have a great arrangement for an even better space! So far:

2000 sq ft of studio space
Available Gallery space
Digital Darkroom

...and more to come.

I plan on blogging frequently to track the progress of our move in so please check back often.

I hope you are intrigued. I hope you comment to let me know if you or someone you know would be interested in working in or with Studio Two Eleven.

I hope 2009 is our best year ever!
Talk with you in a few days.!

Latest Update

2008-06-04T14:35:00.002-05:00

Hi All,
Ok I know I missed the last update, but I do have a good reason. I have been doing some unexpected travelling lately and needed to get some things squared away. A recent trip to California gave me some good shots in the Joshua Tree National Park. I'll be posting a link to those soon. Next up was a trip to the great state of Texas for a huge wedding. This was a truly grand event and an excellent opportunity to work with superstar Dallas based photographer Jason Wynn. Looking forward to working more events with him. Thanks Jason for calling me!
I'm in the final stages on getting the studio up and running. Look for my next post to include some links to new photos and a more detailed update on the studio!
DBW

Where are we?

2008-05-17T16:30:00.002-05:00

Hi All,
Just a quick post to let you know I will be updating the blog at least weekly going forward. Many changes are underway including the opening of a new studio spot in Downtown Memphis. The place is going to be HOT and available for use by you outstanding photogs and artists out there. If you have been looking for a space to shoot in with a moderate set of equipment already in place then this will be the spot for you. Also if you would like o have a gallery showing of your works we can accommodate that as well.
Look for more news very soon. Next posting on May 20th!
DBW

New Update: Contests and such

2007-07-28T10:51:00.001-05:00

Hello all!

First of all let me say that we have had an amazing first month. Terrific support from friends and a slew of new clients we are eager to work with.

I also wanted to thank those people who helped me in a contest I entered sponsored by Pop Photo magazine. Those who allowed me to take their photo, help out on the set, or generally gave great feedback and support I thank you. Click Here for the contest homepage.

I've put my entries on my Flickr page since they are a little hard to find on the contest site:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dbwill211/sets/72157601059658203/

Send me some comments and look for new posts soon!
DBW

Grand Opening !

2007-06-16T23:21:00.000-05:00

Wow. The Grand Opening of Studio Two Eleven. I can hardly believe I am writing such a statement. I've dreamed of this day for so long it seems impossible that it is finally here. Now I know that all things are possible.
This is an incredible adventure for me. I hope that the photographic endeavors we undertake in the near and not so distant future will bring visual joy to many people. As much joy as it brings to me to convey it to you.

I have so many people to thank for this day:
Mom - my Mom - for unwavering love and support all my life! I Love You!
Camille - my sister - for constant inspiration, dedication and supportation (I had to do it. LOL)
Darrel - my best friend - for just the right words at just the right times
Kai Cai - super talented, multifaceted designer and stylist - for consistent support and great friendship
Stan Demoss - exceptional chef - for priceless friendship and the best food ANYWHERE
S. Julian - my biz partner and rock star photog - for sharing your talent and support of Studio Two Eleven
Norman Gilbert - Photog Extraordinaire - for access to our new space and continued support and mentoring
Jake Morrow - Photog Extraordinaire II - for stirring up my creative juices and showing me new photographic possibilities

Many thanks to a host of friends and family who gave, called, wrote and stopped by our grand opening festivities. We had a great time with our "Photo Booth" (thanks Jake!) as you will see from the photos. Much more to come!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dbwill211/sets/72157600378014716/

DBW