A Beautiful Melodie
lensed
Originally launched as a collaboration with Levi’s, the Melodie lens is inspired by documentary photographer Melodie McDaniel, who is known for beautifully capturing moments in black & white
How did you get started IN photography? My background is in fine art and commercial photography. I learned on various formats, medium format-6x6, 6x7, large format cameras-4x5 8x10, 35 mm, and others. My first experience traveling abroad to the Middle East sparked my interest in photography. I grew up looking through National Geographic magazines and art books. I started refining my skills in photography when I attended Art Center. That’s where I learned the art of the camera.
What was the inspiration behind the lens? Being given a lens through Hipstamatic and Levi’s was extremely inspiring. It’s not everyday that a photographer is honored in such a specific way. As for my relationship with Levis, they’ve always understood my aesthetic for several of their projects, the most memorable one being the Braddock campaign, which showcases what I’m best known for.
In terms of aesthetic point of view, what do you enjoy shooting most?
I enjoy shooting black and white portraitures; I hope that’s a part of my work people recognize the most. I really love those candid moments you can’t recreate; capturing someone or something in the moment really excites me.
What’s next—Any new projects? Funny you should ask, because that’s the question I am always asking myself. There are some projects in line for the near future, one of which is a personal idea of mine that I am very excited to execute.—RM
