Honorable Mention in "Artists Wanted" Contest!

When I entered this international self portraiture contest, I did not know what to expect. New to photo competitions, it was actually a lot of fun to apply and openly show support to all my talented flickr girls who also entered. To be honest, winning the grand prize was not that important to me. I mean, don't get me wrong, I definitely wouldn't be mad if I won 7K! However, I wanted to venture into something different to see what would happen. To this moment, seeing my name (or rather "alter ego" Ms. Aarika) listed as an "Honorable Mention" among other respected professional photographers in a international photo competition, blows me away! I can't help but to reflect on this time last year as I was preparing for my first full art show in my hometown of Atlantic City. I'm extremely grateful to God and very proud.

I want to also take this time to congratulate all the winners, especially Hilary McHone, Brooke Shaden and Lisa Sieczka, who I've connected with personally. Keep shooting and inspiring ladies!

Looking forward to hopefully meeting everyone at the "The Power Of Self" reception Friday, March 12th at 201 Mulberry St in Manhattan, NYC!

Shanta's Portrait Session

The above pic is of my beautiful prima, Shanta Covington! First, I'd like to thank good 'ole twitter for bringing us together again in the past couple months and much closer than we've ever been in our lives - before our photo session, the last time we saw each other was at Mom-Mom's going home service. That was 3 yrs ago. By the way Shan, Mom-Mom would be so happy that we did this. She loved you so much. :) Anyway, I was SO excited to work with her, and as instructed, she came well rested and worry-free. She worked it out! Second, thank you Gia for coming to style and "beat face." lol God bless that circa scarf! You're one of my most stylist girlfriends. I knew you'd come with the goods. And lastly, thanks to Weldon in Atlantic City who saw me struggling with my camera equipment to the bus terminal, thanks for dragging my studio - I didn't miss my bus trip to NYC because of your help! Thank God.

Aside from these images, there's a creative concept I also shot that same day. I have yet to find a space to do the separate additional shooting necessary for it. Ugh! Once it's done, I'll post if everything turns out the way I've imagined it in my mind.