EMMANUÉL ALSTON

She’s the life of the party, the headliner, show stopper, the Alpha and the Omega. And today Gina and I have chosen RED. This was a very different energy from our first outing. The red dress, highlighting and accentuating her build, Gina’s confidence is now on full display. The word DYNAMIC comes to mind as she commands space and time around her. Some humans burn bright and hot as the core of the sun. And we’re all fortunate to witness their shine.

Fun, creative, and beaming with light, Harleen brought her energy to the day. There were too many choices before the shoot but eventually we settled on a gold After Five Cocktail dress. However the true show stopper on location was Harleen, absolute BRILLIANCE in blue, with an elegant, classic, casual dress. With new and exciting ideas from Harleen on a daily basis as well as her attention to even the smallest of details, this photoshoot was just a taste of many things to come.

With only a few weeks into the fall season, we still were able to take advantage of the Georgia sun. On the day of the photoshoot we selected a Gold Modern Greco-Roman dress and Classic White Mermaid style dress. As for Karelyn, she is forever REGAL in her presence. And what greater way of displaying that personality than being dressed and adorned in the pureness of White and Gold.

For the very first photoshoot on this site Gina and I laid down a standard for things to come. The pale rose colored dress was her first choice and immediately became my favorite. With this choice of color and style Gina embodies strength, confidence and delicateness difficult to put into words. When Gina fell from the stars, did she somehow bring HEAVEN along with her? I’ll let the images speak for themselves.

A more casual outing however no less intriguing, Pamela was cool, calm, and collected on this autumn afternoon. A classic style home was selected for our location in a prestigious Atlanta neighborhood. The leaves and greenery slowly beginning to turn a familiar seasonal red and brown, hints of a summer’s past still remain. It became apparent with every single shot, Pamela’s energy was consistently the same, peaceful, tranquil, S E R E N E, her energy now dominates the air. Confident with what has been created on the day we ended our photoshoot. However with this new found energy of serenity lingering long after our session has ended, has now emboldened us to create another world in the near future.

As we now leave October behind, Karelyn has returned and is newly rejuvenated. Ominous clouds would normally hinder a session such as this, however new strength has been acquired and she now shines in a cavern like DRAGON FIRE in the dark. Bold and strong, Karelyn’s dress symbolically represents the RADIANCE deep from within. Lessor are they who’ve attempted to extinguish their flame, fore a dragon will inevitably rise from the ashes - soaring far and away. Dragons reign high from a city of steel built on an island of solid rock - lessor men have been pulled asunder. Fear them not, fore a Dragon’s greatest gift is their ability for empathy, compassion, and love. Revel in their glory as they fly and rejoice in the knowledge that some have made a choice to remain among us.

For this young woman today on an early autumn afternoon, a photo shoot was a new and exciting experience. Some of the best people the world has to offer can appear out of thin air, leaving an impression as deep as Valles Marineris. Demure in stature however, Lindsey’s bravery stretches far and wide. And with her ability to conquer and control her fear, I am proud to call her an ally. On the day of the shoot, Lindsey arrived with her fancy hats and knee high boots, perfectly complimenting her grace and style. Trials and tribulations abound throughout life, however, Lindsey always gracefully stays the course... ever strong, ever brave. Lindsey’s weapon of choice is her knowledge and discernment stemming from a desire to understand the world around her and to navigate its’ waters. With the yellow sun beginning to set, our day is now coming to a close. But rest assured, this was but a small sample of the woman before you. And the Ray of Light which shines within her will return in future posts to come.

Around the World and Back Again, her trek to South Africa and her stay in Los Angeles California, Miss Sherica Small is home for the holidays here in the ATL. I contact her to see if she wants to connect on Black Friday. She agrees, however, she returns my message with a resounding, “Roller Skates!” I grab my Nikon and we meet early Friday morning. Multi talented, Miss Small has begun to transfer her dance moves from our days on the dance floor to Roller and Ice Skating Rinks. Ever the professional Miss Small arrives on time. With her six year career in modeling, we easily create art and are finished in no time flat. As we leave the location I drive Sherica to her apartment. Sherica then informs me she will remain in Atlanta through the month of December. My mind immediately begins to wander with new ideas and I think and say aloud, “December Photoshoot?” We’ll have to wait and see.

From the time I met Julia, her aura has consistently remained the same. And now four years later she has dispatched SUNLIGHT from her pocket to illuminate this Autumn day. We chose a more earthy environment for our photoshoot this afternoon. Julia eventually decided on a white sundress with pink and green patterns perfectly complimenting her natural style. Whether by a cobblestone wall, grassy felid, or water fountain, Julia exudes an air of weightlessness with every step and movement she makes. Ethereal and light as a feather Julia confidently carries herself with grace and style. With the sun now hovering low over the horizon and the temperature decreasing ever slightly we end our photoshoot. However Julia, as always, is a wonderful reminder of what awaits us in the coming Spring and Summer months ahead.

Driven and determined, Laura is a new resident here in the city of Atlanta. She has a PhD in Pharmaceutical and Bio Molecular Sciences specializing in Organic Chemistry. HIGH INTELLIGENCE is a powerful gift far greater than diamonds and gold and we here in the United States are proud to have Laura with us on our scientific journey. However our discussion of the universe will have to wait. Today Laura has but a simple request, to be photographed in a wedding dress on top of a skyscraper. Laura’s goal in mind is to capture a woman’s elegance. Her elegance and confidence in her beliefs is what drives her forward in life. “No problem,” I quickly reply. In order to secure a dress I contact my friend Miss Moona Mohammed, owner of ThePerfectDressATL.com. We tried several dresses at Moona’s shop, however one dress stood out and complimented Laura perfectly. On location at our photoshoot Laura began her swan song, gracefully and effortlessly dancing between not one but five skyscrapers. Her body movements, periodically soaring upwards, accenting the vertical steel and concrete structures surrounding us on all sides. We make stops at several locations within the hour, capturing Laura at each location and freezing these moments in time. The fall of 2020 has been a trying time for many, however, through it all Laura has given us something positive to strive for and a reminder to remain driven, remain determined, and to continue forward, always soaring upwards.

The previous year is now but a memory and we now steer forward into two thousand twenty one. Legends from wars of eons past will eventually fade, however some linger onwards to guide us on our way. I’ve heard stories of great men and navigators becoming disoriented and lose their way. Led astray by mythical angels at the gates of distant fields. Those men who began their approach with a desire for conquest and power would inevitably catastrophically fail. Angels at the gates cannot be won by dark hearts. But only those hearts filled with love, compassion and valor. These angels, SIRENS as they are known, only reveal one’s true intent. If your heart is weak you will be cast under. If your heart is pure, their song will direct your trajectory upwards ascending your spirit to the divine. As for myself, I’ve encountered them by land, sea and air. A century ago as I marched east through France, they allowed passage. Decades later over the Pacific Ocean between heaven and Earth they whispered in my ear guiding me home. They have been a source of inspiration, clearing a path forward guiding me onwards. If you find yourself before them, you have only to look within yourself. What you find there will determine your path in this world, the nether regions and beyond.

Karelyn takes a quick break from work. Her day to day at a multinational corporation providing solutions for power systems across the world. January has come on strong and milder days are few and far between. DRAGON FIRE lay dormant for now and winter has finally come. As for today, Karelyn’s gaze is ice cold. Purposeful with razor like focus. One achievement leads to another, eventually forging her resolve into the hardest of TEMPERED STEEL. In this time, deep cold drives most into retreat, however Karelyn remains turning forward into the wind. As for now we are in the middle of winter. However, if you have the necessary tools and your constitution is strong, you’ll find direction through the storm ahead.

As far back as autumn, Gabriela and I planned a photo shoot. Temperatures would quickly drop and we postponed for sunny days. Now, with the Spring Equinox upon us, we’ve reconvened to create art. If you are new to the Atlanta area and in search of Gabriela, you needn’t look any further than the INFERNO at the center of the dance floor. But alas, you will learn this flame is unyielding and burns bright year after year. A spark began at age 8 with a passion for ballet, eventually transitioning to multiple forms of dance. Gabriela would eventually choreograph numerous music videos, commercials, and now currently directs her own dance teams. Ever improving Gabriela is a member of HYPE (Hispanic Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs,) a business major at Georgia State University, and currently employed with a major Real Estate Company in Atlanta. What began as a mere flicker years ago has now evolved into a virtual CYCLONE OF FIRE and positive energy. With the Sun now approaching the horizon, Gabriela and I make our goodbyes. But my anticipation grows as the weekend is upon us yet again. And I know where to find her in the heart of Atlanta.

I thought it would be interesting to go back in time. Back to a place of when this idea began. My car photography was doing well however I wanted to try something different. Fatima had traveled to New York several times for modeling eventually making the choice not to pursue this career path. Fatima’s time in New York left her skeptical of the industry, however, I was able to convince her to give my idea a chance. I showed her the location of the photoshoot and my concept for the idea… she was 100% all in. Up to this point all of my images were automotive in nature. And although confident, I was still unsure of what I would capture on the day. My choice of location was the foremost and grand Philadelphia Museum of Art. Architects Horace Trumbauer, Jullian Francis Abele, Zantzinger, Borie, and Medary, would go on to design and construct one of the most massive structures in the tri-state area during the 1920s. I could think of no better location to capture Fatima in this moment in time. And for Fatima, with Greco-Roman and North African design themes in mind, I felt White and Gold would be appropriate attire. Her second choice was orange and black. Armed with an old Nikon D40x camera, Fatima and I set out to capture these moments in time. Looking back, there were dozens of things I could’ve done differently. However, as I flipped through image after image, I came to the conclusion we accomplished our mission for the day. This was merely a test, mistakes and all. But my confidence grew as I realized it could only get better and I would improve upon what was learned. This was the start, this was the INCEPTION, and Fatima and I knew this was just a taste of things to come.

Subject: Miss F A T I M A

Location: Philadelphia Museum of Art

Architects: Horace Trumbauer, Jullian Francis Abele, Zantzinger, Borie, and Medary

Photographer: EMMANUEL ALSTON

July 25 2015

From the moment I encountered Demetria on the dance floor, she ERADIATED us all with the brilliance of her smile. As I’ve come to know her more and more, her Billion Dollar smile never dims in luminosity. On the day of our photoshoot, bright yellow was her choice of color, suiting her energy and personality with uncanny accuracy. Diligent and focused, Demetria is bound by a purpose stemming from within. Currently pursuing her master’s in medical sciences at Georgia State University, Demetria also holds her undergraduate degree in exercise sciences. And in the not too distant future will soon apply to medical school for 2023. Demetria is also a former university cheerleader. Engaging in her free time she enjoys running, salsa dancing, and enters at least one 10K within a year. I am reminded of her fitness on a day hike together, snapping iPhone pictures of Demetria, doing hand stands on the side of a mountain overlooking the state of Georgia. No matter what part of planet Earth Demetria stands, from Nigeria, the Philippines, Vietnam, and now back in the United States, Demetria bears STARLIGHT to all those around her. We finish our photoshoot and the conditions were great on the day. Demetria has several favorite quotes she carries with her. However before ending this session, she and I will leave these lasting words from Marcus Aurelius…

“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”

And I can’t think of a better way to close out this day.

A long time in the works but inevitably right on time, Natasha’s day has finally arrived. When moving to Atlanta some six years ago, it was Natasha who was first in the city with whom I shared this idea of mine. We tossed around some ideas back and forth, however with our last encounter we determined our timing was perfect and it was now or never. Natasha’s first ensemble was a long flowing white gown. Gold high heel shoes of course would fittingly adorn her feet. Unbeknownst to Natasha and long before the clicks of my camera, heads were already turning as we crossed the streets of Atlanta. Natasha’s second choice - a strapless bright yellow dress. Meticulous in her selection of jewelry were a multicolored necklace and earrings of jade. Natasha is also a Florida girl and the energy of being KISSED BY THE SUN seems to follow her wherever she goes. Natasha and I part ways for the day but after reviewing our images I quickly text and inform her, “We will definitely be planning another photoshoot again soon!” This winter unfortunately has been cold and dark, however thankfully now resides in the past. The light now lays before us as far as the eye can see, and today Natasha and I are bringing a new year and the beginning of Spring two-thousand and twenty-two.

It’s a mild Saturday afternoon at the beginning of an Atlanta summer. Harleen and I decide to take advantage of the day and go for a WALK IN THE PARK through historic Stone Mountain. Most Atlantians have a similar idea today as the Park is a buzz with couples, family and friends sampling the outdoors and enjoying the time together. Coincidentally, I’ve brought my Nikon and a brand new lens along for the ride. Harleen and I are able to find some brief moments to ourselves. We spend some time by the train tracks, eventually making our way over to the Grist Mill. Adorned in silver earrings, necklace, and high heels Harleen is capable of creating a world unto herself, making any environment seem ever so exotic, distant and far away. For the both of us the Mill is a nice change of pace from our more urban environment and a return to something more peaceful and serene. The sun now beginning to dip below the tree tops, Harleen and I capture a few additional moments in time on camera. A pretty successful test of some new equipment for the day. We head back to the car with camera in hand. Niehter of us have eaten this afternoon. Harleen looks at me with that million dollar smile of hers and I already know what question come next, “Mexican cuisine please!” Typically how many of our days end together.

The summer of two thousand and twenty two has come and gone. Autumn is but a few days and hours away and I decided to seize the opportunity and capture the last moments of the sun’s rays. Elisangela and I had spoken of this in the past however, in the here and now, both of us were finally available. For our photoshoot, Elisangela and I experience equal moments of sunlight and overcast. Both knowing The Last Days Of Summer in Atlanta were now upon us. Elisangela always the stylist day or night brought not one but three different ensembles to highlight our last moments of the season. The first of which was fall wear composing of a maroon leather skirt, black leather boots, and black top. Her second outfit in the form of evening wear was an elegant short burgundy skirt. Elisangela’s third and final choice held significant meaning for her in the form of a long classic white dress. Conditions remained favorable the entire photoshoot and our luck refused to fade. Elisangela’s energy as well never seems to fade as she held strong the entire day. It’s tough to have a favorite so I’ll let you the viewer decide. However, Elisangela’s personality shines through in any outfit, day, evening, or night. And although summer has now come to an end, autumn and winter both hold their own beauty and you can be sure Elisangela and I will reconvene once again in the near future.

The time of rebirth and renewal has arrived again and Harleen and I have made a tradition of reconvening to this moment time. This time of year holds multiple significance for us both. The obvious of course is the passing of summer into autumn, a time of equal day versus night. Yet another represents something equally special, the time of Harleen’s birth into this world. Our first photoshoot together occurred during this time and each year we both have a moment of reflection, renewal and celebration. Light rain began to fall during our photoshoot however, it would take more than rain to interfere on this day. Harleen chose a long flowing blue dress, adorning herself with silver jewelry. When Harleen and I shoot together conditions inevitably are varied however in the midst of overcast clouds, rain, and small breaks of sunlight, we both accomplished our mission for the day. Harleen and I are always creating art together throughout the year however the arrival the SECOND EQUINOX will always hold significance for us both.

In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Four, we turn yet another page in time. But on this day Gabriela has returned to us, wiser, stronger, discerning evermore. Gabriela reaches out to me before arriving in Atlanta for the holidays. I’ve been curious to explore a new location in town. Gabriela of course, is always ready to shine. Gabriela now resides in our nations capital, however maintains a presence in Atlanta Georgia. Nearly four years have passed since her move to Washington, however Gabriela’s drive and passion still remain. Gabriela has performed Community Outreach for DC’s top dance events, lead strategic planning sessions of VPs and Executives at her company of employment, and is currently a member of a professional dance team in the DC area. On the day, Gabriela arrives with multiple outfits, however it is the green dress which sets the room ablaze. As our session progresses and shot after shot clicks from the camera, I see the embers surrounding Gabriela, rise into existence once again. It is now apparent, the FLAME I encountered years ago appears to be ETERNAL, unyielding and unrelenting. As we complete our session I begin packing our equipment, however the music compels Gabriela to dance one last time before the embers subside. I ask Gabriela to save some of the fire for another day. As I’ve got something special in mind for next time and our next encounter!

It’s been four long years since we’ve featured Karelyn here. And those four years may as well have been a lifetime. Everything has changed since last we’ve met. Leading up to our encounter on the day, Karelyn tells me a story. A story about a place where Love and Joy are everlasting. Rarely have I doubt Karelyn however this place she speaks seems too good to be true. More akin to whispers of a fairytale or fleeting fantasy at best. There are hard turns on the road through life. Some roads lead to deep canyons. Other roads to dark valleys. Karelyn tells me she’s experienced a miracle and found something too many of us spend our lives searching for. Yet upon my arrival there they were (BOTH of them.) As sure as the day, wherever they stood the light was unyielding. And when looking into her eyes, I could see the Love and Joy was everlasting. As I bore witness I can confidently say Karelyn indeed has found P A R A D I S E on Earth. And in a crazy world has managed to build an oasis unto themselves. My time in their presence unfortunately was all too short and now drawing to a close. It appears miracles do happen and a place like this truly exists. This was not fairytale nore a fantasy. In fact this place was real. And I am happy to know we will one day see them again.