Lisa Brown Photography

Here’s To Love

Lisa Brown Photography — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 22:00:31 +0000

Love is what some would call a force of nature. As much as we may want to, we can’t command or demand love anymore than we can command the sun or the moon to raise and fall. But when the stars of life align and we encounter this grand and often fiery sentiment in its purest form, it will always be a cause for celebration.

I can remember the day clearly. My friend Kim was beside himself with happiness. Devotion spoke loudly with his every move. He’d finally found it. Love. And he wanted to share his excitement and utter joy with everyone he knew. He approached me on this day and said, “We’ve been friends for a long time and Yolanda and I would so appreciate if you would capture our day for us.” How wonderful it was to be asked to photograph their wedding. It was the most heartfelt request, the likes of which I couldn’t possibly refuse. And with that, I smiled and happily agreed to capture the essence of and celebrate love. On a brisk yet sunny February day before their god, their family and their friends, Kim and Yolanda committed their lives and hearts to one another. They promised to love, respect and cherish, to find laughter, comfort and trust in each other. Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate.

And so, my wish for you Kim and Yolanda is that the love of God and His word never leaves your hearts. May this special love always be yours to share! God’s word says “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” Thank you for sharing your day with me and allowing me to see the great promise of your lives together…HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! Cheers!!

Artistry

Lisa Brown Photography — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:30:18 +0000

With what some have called the largest impact on the music scene since rock and roll, the genre of Neo-Soul is leaving an indelible mark not soon to be smeared, erased or forgotten! And I was invited to contribute to the list of talent that will evolve as our appreciation for the musical tapestry grows!

You can check out the images here!

When You Believe…

Lisa Brown Photography — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 04:59:08 +0000

Tis’ The Season… To give thanks. So, here goes:

First, I have to admit, 2011 has been a rough year. It’s been a year of personal trials, tears and a few set backs, but it has also been a year of new discoveries, opened doors and amazing opportunities. My life is this wonderfully complicated mixed bag. And quite honestly, I’m grateful for it all. I’m looking forward to stepping further outside of some comfort zones that I’ve cushioned for far too long. I’m ready.

What I’ve also discovered this year is, as you look to whatever ventures you are planning for next year, check out the best of what happened in your world this year. Have you conquered a fear? Made a new friend? Discovered a new talent? If so, celebrate it! My best this year? In a word: Belief. The belief that anything is possible. I’ve struggled with the belief in myself and all the things I was capable of. It’s crazy that I even admitted that out loud, folks. But there it is. Here I was, walking around in a desert of disbelief in who I was made to be; with the sands of doubt and fear flying all around me. But I now know, it is possible to take that leap of faith and land firmly on both feet. Life is working my bouncing skills; and you know — I’m alright with that! Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they’re supposed to help you discover who you are. And with that, I want to thank you all (those of my past, present and future) who have challenged me, cheered me on and even those who have run the race with me and allowed me more opportunity to believe in myself and my dreams — I appreciate you for all that you have been, are now and will continue to be.

“Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step.” — Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Evolution of My Life…

Lisa Brown Photography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:00:13 +0000

It’s been almost 18 years since New York’s own hometown girl, Mary J. Blige dropped her progressive sophomore album “My Life” and revolutionized the music scene. It was her innovative mix of soul and hip-hop, (which at this time in music was unheard of) that earned her the moniker the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul. Released when she was only 23 years old, “My Life” was her journal of pain and struggle. She became synonymous for sharing her truth with every new declaration, at one point asking us to share her world (“Love Is All We Need”) while at another, adamantly proclaiming that there would be no more drama (“Family Affair”). Her growth has been evident, both as an entertainer and as a woman. She is known as one of the few people in the industry who has made herself both relatable to women and desirable to men (Sorry Mariah!!) And on Wednesday night at New York’s Terminal 5, she stood proudly and let her fans know that in spite of all of life’s ups and downs, her progression continues. Her 10th studio album, “My Life II…The Journey Continues, Act I” was released to solid reviews by various music outlets including Rolling Stone and Spin magazine.

But this huge crowd of her most devoted fans had little interest in what some anonymous music critic had to say; words couldn’t describe who she is to them or her impact on their lives, they just wanted to see “Mary! Mary! Mary!!” As the crowd clamored together and the chants quieted down, she appeared out of the shadows, almost as if on cue. With the crowd’s feverish acknowledgement came the intro…a phone call with Diddy (aka Sean Combs, aka Puff Daddy aka P. Diddy aka Diddy Dirty Money aka…you get the picture!!), a reference to the first “My Life” album’s intro and Combs’ executive producer credits. She then swaggered her way down memory lane with songs like “Mary Jane (All Night Long)”, the title track “My Life”, “You Bring Me Joy”, “You Gotta Believe” and “I’m Goin’ Down”.

In continuing to pour her heart out, she sang an impromptu happy birthday to her percussionist Rex and to fellow Sagittarius in the room and dedicated “I Love You” and a moment of silence to her long time friend and fallen comrade Heavy D, calling him a driving force in her career and a big brother to so many. She then spoke directly to the fans thanking them for their long standing support, saying that her hope is to keep blessing and uplifting the masses with her music. “We’re not gonna be perfect until we’re gone, but until then, guess what I wanna be?” This lead to an explosive rendition of “Be Happy”. In acknowledging the past, she now looks towards the future. With that came some of her latest material, namely “Mr. Wrong” and “25/8″.

It’s been said that growth takes place when a person has dared to become involved with experimenting with his own life. As Mary’s incredible life goes on, thank goodness that the journey continues. We can’t wait for ‘Act II’.

Click to view slideshow.

One Year…

Lisa Brown Photography — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 04:55:24 +0000

Someone once said: “your birthday is a special time to celebrate the gift of ‘you’ to the world.” And, wow, what a special time it has been. I remember it like it was yesterday; there was pure excitement in the air — it was electric!! The day was filled with all the anticipation of Christmas with the greatest gift soon to come! Two of my best girls were coming into their own. First, there is the woman whom I’ve shared every childhood experience with. I’ve loved, laughed, been comforted and cried with her and I couldn’t have chosen a better person to be, not only a friend, but my best friend who will now become a mother. And then there is the child who has been called a “miracle”. A child who was born to be cherished. Adored. Spoiled. (I happily take some of the blame for that! She is my goddaughter after all and it’s a moniker I wear proudly — GODMOTHER!) And loved. Her name is Brooklyn. And at 7 pounds, 4.5 ounces, she truly epitomized the wonder of God. She is a gift to all of us, but moreso to her mother, born on her birthday. A day they will now share forever.

So here we are with my best friend, my confidante, my sister…one year older, one year wiser and one year into what is sure to be the happiest time of her life. And of course, there is my lil’ mama whose arrival in the world has brought an outpouring of joy and happiness to so many. What better way to celebrate love, laughter and birthdays than with treats!! Life was sweet at Brooklyn’s Cupcake Shop and I couldn’t have been happier to indulge!! Happy Birthday to two of my favorite girls, today has been a wonderful day! I love you both so much!! Now bring on the cupcakes!!

Click to view slideshow.

In Remembrance…

Lisa Brown Photography — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:30:18 +0000

Dora Norma King — Today is such a somber day for those of us who love you. As we celebrate your life, our hearts are also heavy as we still mourn your loss. You may be gone from us, but your lessons have not been forgotten. You gave so much of yourself and taught us all the meaning of true love and compassion and for that we are forever grateful. May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

Happy Birthday. I will love and miss you always. ♥

That Which Is Brought To The Table…

Lisa Brown Photography — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:45:29 +0000

The invitation read: “Friends make the world better. Combine a group of interesting and highly creative women, sprinkle liberally with laughter and friendship, add dinner and watch as inspiration blooms.” How wonderful it was to receive an invitation like that! And what’s more, no one would ever suspect that these beguiling and captivating words of welcome came from a stranger. Yes. An unknown. I received an email at the end of the summer from a young woman, whom I was pleased to discover was a fellow photographer, who was inviting women for a potluck get together and had been told about me by a mutual friend. It was a simple invitation to dinner. And as evidenced by every plate of collard greens, curry chicken, rice and peas or pastafazool overflowing at Sunday dinner, it’s obvious that people connect on deeper levels over food. With that said, I happily accepted. So after exchanging pleasantries via email, we finally had the chance to meet earlier this week.

Articulate and focused are a couple of the words I would use to describe CM. She reminded me of so many awesome women I know in that she is a woman of substance, knowledge and great character. We sat in her tiny studio apartment, surrounded by walls of books and images she created and had proudly displayed and babbled on and on like old friends. We talked about photography, relationships, pop culture, world events..oh, and more photography! But even with her grasp of all things serious, I was pleased to know that she is also a woman who laughs with reckless abandon! I mean, from the gut! And who knows, maybe it was the atmosphere or even the wine, but I looked around and found myself sharing and laughing too. Freely. It was the most full I’d been up until that point. I’m sure she had no idea, but for me, that was a gift.

I want to humbly thank all of those in my life who have brought love, friendship and acceptance to the table. I’ll have you know that I treasure and feast on it daily! And like food, friendship is our common ground, a universal experience and I’m ready for more of both! Cheers!

For The Sake of Hip Hop

Lisa Brown Photography — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:30:41 +0000

It felt like I was stepping into another world… A “secret society” of sorts, where cell phones were confiscated and every media outlet in the room (including Spin magazine and the music/pop culture icon known as Rolling Stone Magazine!) had their equipment checked, scoped out and inspected for the slightest possibility of a video leak. (Actually I may have been the only one and I have to admit to still kinda sorta feelin’ a way about that!)

The location was Santos Party House, downtown New York’s latest and greatest performance space. And the artist who appealed to his fans to step away from their connections in social media and networking (No tweeting, Facebooking, texting or video was allowed during the show!! I actually heard a few gasps as young people, who’ve grown up in the age of MySpace and instant gratification sent out those last few texts and tweets before falling into the abyss of music.) was none other than Jermaine Lamarr Cole, known to the music masses simply as J. Cole.

The Fayetteville, North Carolina native and Roc Nation newcomer let the fans know that, in spite of a broken ankle, he came as he wanted no pity. To him, this session was about nothing but the music. “If you came to listen, thank you for coming,” he said graciously. “But if you came to drink and talk and all that, please step to the back. This is ’bout to be some real shit.” ‘Nuff said! Look out for the release of his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story on September 27th.

Click to view slideshow.

A “Picture Perfect” Day!

Lisa Brown Photography — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:00:27 +0000

Eric Roberson — the soulful effervescent crooner and Rahway’s Native Son is back with music that will not only move you, it will make you smile…big! The album, Mr. Nice Guy, which is slated for an October 11 release leaves no emotional stone unturned. All of life’s inventory is examined, from love to heartache to laughter — it’s all here! And just recently, I again had the great pleasure of watching the magic happen. Firstly, with his salute to summer with the song, aptly named “Summertime Anthem”, featuring hip hop’s Grand Marshall, Chubb Rock! (Images can be seen here!) And now with his latest single, “Picture Perfect”, featuring Foreign Exchange frontman, Phonte with the video’s leading lady being played by model/singer/actress Sepsenahki. It was, in a word, crazy! But all that hard work will most definitely pay off…be on the look out for the video soon!

Big ups to directors, Derrick “D. Black” Savage and Jay Espinal (who was also the cinematographer), gaffer Ari Schaeffer, BlueErroSoul team, Tiffany “Sweetlocs” Taylor, Anshia Tull and everyone who participated in the magic! It was an awesome time and I’m happy to have been a part of it!

Click to view slideshow.

On A Positive Note…

Lisa Brown Photography — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:00:30 +0000

Street hustlers have always been known to have the “gift of gab” — it’s that persuasive lil’ something where they’re always ready to pocket one’s cash after a well rehearsed sales pitch. But this guy was different. While scouting The Highline Park for the perfect backdrop for a recent engagement shoot, I spied a young man shuffling his feet as he found his way to fellow patrons of the park. His movements were slow and his voice was soft. I’ll admit to being a bit freaked out, this is New York after all; it becomes second nature in this town to notice everything–and everyone–around you.

So, needless to say, I stiffened up slightly and put my game face on (I’m from Brooklyn, we walk around with our ‘game faces’ in our pockets and we’re always ready for the next move) as he made his way, almost in slow motion, to me. Despite being a bit cautious of him, my guard came down a little once he spoke. He said that his name is Omar and that he was selling a cookbook. A cookbook? This coming from a young man who looked like he could benefit from a meal or two. But he told me that it wasn’t any ordinary cookbook. He said that it held recipes of positivity. Hmmm…I’m intrigued. “What kinds of recipes are in the cookbook?”, I ask. “The recipes in this book are for the mind and spirit,” He said. “You can’t find these products on store shelves. For all the times we’ve found ourselves cowering behind feelings of inadequacy, the “Mental Diet” assures us there is no need to fear failure.”

He spews one the recipes with the finesse of seasoned (no pun intended) wordsmith:

Stress Free Mac n’ Cheese
Bring to boil 1 lb of conscious elbow macaroni
Add slices of ignore the drama cheddar cheese
With Pepper Jack cheese
Preheat oven to 300 degrees
Place macaroni in a now is the time to be at peace aluminum foil
Mix in two cups of canned milk
Pour on top of let the negative feelings go cheese topping
Allow to settle
Cover with a sheet of meditation aluminum foil
Place pan in don’t overract oven
Cook slowly for 30 to 60 minutes
Remove from the oven and allow to cool

Snaps! Snaps! I found myself smiling with him and thanking him for thinking of someone other than himself! Bravo! It was definitely something that I was glad to come across in light of some questions I’ve had to ask myself lately. It was then that the suspicious New Yorker in me emerged. “Alright dude, how much is this positivity gonna cost me?” He looked at me, smiled and handed me his little pamphlet of progressive vibes and said: “For you, the price of positivity: FREE!!”