"Live Like Today Is Your Last" - Kash
An average person can only see life from one perspective but if you close your eyes, there is a whole world of astounding opportunities. Opportunities that Brooklyn photographer Kashanti Lawson saw through a different lens. Her urban style of photography creates her story. It explains all of what her words will never commence. Life is all about taking chances and I had the pleasure to have an open discussion about her photography. Kash is no amateur to this game; 6 years in strong and shooting on. It's safe to say her work isn't anything short of amazing.
Who introduced you to photography?
Kash: Honestly, no one introduced me to photography. It was just something I was REALLY good at and I enjoyed taking pictures. So I bought my first camera and it was all uphill from there.
What does the world of photography mean to you?
Kash: It means growth because photography is something you can learn A LOT from and grow from it. Throughout your growth, you also meet A LOT of different and amazing people, that makes you want to explore more from a wider spectrum.
How has your style of photography changed/ shaped your perspective on how you see the world?
Kash: The fact that I can take a photo of ONE object, location, or person several different ways in several different angles, is amazing. This world has SO MUCH landscapes and people to offer why not capture it and cherish the memories for years to come?
What was your first session like, and how have you grown since then?
Kash: Oh man! My first session was NERVE RACKING! I was so shy and nervous. I'm definitely way more confident now and the drive I have for photography is on 1000! It's like a craving that I have to keep feeding. Feeding my ambition is my best motivator. It helps me create my best work.
What artist(s) inspire you to keep your head leveled in this photography game?
Kash: There are a few Brooklyn-based photographers that definitely keep me on toes. They inspire me to go hard and especially since they're around the same age as me, makes me want to go even HARDER. Push my creativity even further.
What story are you trying to tell through your lens?
Kash: The story I'm trying to tell is to make something out of nothing. If I could explain to someone how each and every shoot is planned and the kind of location it's held in, they wouldn't believe me. It's so much to it, it's almost as if you have to be a freelancer to the ideas you have in mind. You just have to go for it, be comfortable, and just shoot that moment.
What future projects or events do you wish to partake in?
Kash: Definitely would like to be onboard with huge concerts events; SXSW, Coachella, Summer Jam, and etc. I have a few series/projects of my own I want to go forward with this year. You'll just have to stay tuned to witness greatness!
What dream session do you yearn to have or models you wish to work with and why?
Kash: Some infamous individual in a different country flying me out JUST to take photos of them (either photo shoot or an event). Traveling is something I LOVE doing and have been doing since I was 2. I've been blessed to see some parts of the world some aren't fortunate enough to see. And I just want MY camera to be the one to capture it all.
Kash's memory card will be filled with dreams, achievements, and a world of possibilities that you guys might want to be on the look out for. You won't be disappointed. Explore her love for photography through the best lens. The lens of opportunity.
Smile. Shoot. Capture. Love.
