Black on Both Sides: A Portrait in Echoes
This photo set was inspired by Mos Def’s Black on Both Sides, an album that’s always felt like a raw yet introspective album. I wanted to capture that same duality in this portrait series.
There’s a tension mixed with confidence. I wanted clarity in the eyes to contrast the shadows, hoping to tell a similar story. To create an understanding of masculinity that embraces patience and emotional depth as much as strength.
That cover has always hit me different. It felt like looking directly at someone who sees the world clearly but still carries the weight of the world through the music. No gimmicks or distractions. Just a presence and that stuck with me.
This photoshoot was my attempt at creating a portrait that has that same energy. Not so much about posing, but expression that draws you in and makes you reflect for a moment. His expressions brought life to the portraits, showing the nuance I was going for.
I was intentional with the lighting by keeping it tight and directional. I used dark tones around the face to let the eyes speak for the narrative.
I wanted to create an element of mystery by having just enough light to see him. This adds depth by only showing what’s necessary, rather than everything. The mood wasn’t meant to be explained, even though I’m writing a full blog post about it. It’s meant to be felt. A little guarded and defiant. Yet, vulnerable and human.
When I have a shoot like this it’s rarely about the subject alone. It’s usually about me too. It’s about what I see in others and what I’m learning about myself.
Black on Both Sides wasn’t just an album. It was a statement and introduction to hip hop for me in my adolescence. These portraits were my way of continuing that conversation visually.
Peace,
-Joe
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