Ever wish you could create another you? Want to step outside your comfort zone? I often do…which is why I set out to collaborate with the one and only Charlotte-based photographer Mia Howle of apBEARture photography to project another me.
The Story of apBEARture Photography
Throughout her childhood, Mia’s father instilled in her the value of perseverance and the unwavering beauty of nature. He was given the nickname “Black Bear” by close family and friends, which served as the inspiration for the name apBEARture photography. Although he passed away when she was younger, these values and his memory have shaped her life and with each one of her works, she hopes to honor his memory and views.
Our Shoot
The base of our shoot was to use newspapers to create photos that spoke louder than words and be a little quirky in between. We began our creative adventure as a collaborative effort. One person set up the background for the shoot, one ripped newspaper for the design on my face, and then we all worked to piece together the “article” on my face. Then, the magic happened!
The Lex Paige Reaction
After shooting with Mia and her friend Katie, I truly felt alive. It’s funny and weird at the same time, but something about just being submerged in a creative environment makes you feel rejuvenated and gives you energy. (Or at least it does for me) One of my favorite parts of the shoot was how comfortable Mia made me feel and how much of a kind and creative spirit she is. It was very refreshing and made the whole shoot more relaxed working with someone who was open to new ideas and suggestions, so I thank you, Mia, for being such an open soul.
With the “Find A Haven” being prominent on my eyebrow, this shoot and the photos that resulted in it made me feel like the message to our audience was to just be you and find your own happiness. Sometimes, and we all know this, the media and news can consume our lives, and headlines, good or bad, can take us away from our own happiness. However that’s the beautiful thing about art, you can decipher it in your own way and with that, I want to end by again giving a BIG thank you to Mia again and her amazing work.
If you take a look at the apBEARture Instagram you can see more incredible shoots utilizing florals, natural lighting, movement, and even colorful paints. You can also check out more on apBEARture photography by visiting the website HERE!
With Love,
Lex Paige
