Creativesoul Photography

BY Shannon Copcutt

A famous person once said “You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” And nothing could be truer for CreativeSoul Photography, a company known for its Maximalist style that highlights elements of African American culture through bold, thought-provoking imagery.

Kahran and Regis, the team behind CreativeSoul, first started their journey when they began dating cross country (long distance) and used photography as a way to preserve memories until their next in-person visit. When the two finally moved to Atlanta together, Regis went to school for photography and they started a photography business together in 2009.

At first, the couple photographed a little bit of everything, until a few years later they began taking photos of kids and fell in love with it. Now their vibe has evolved and they intentionally incorporate elements of the rich African American culture and communities into their photoshoots. “We believe these cultures are full of vibrancy, colors and patterns, and we want to showcase that in our photography style,” said Regis.

That being said, CreativeSoul photo sessions often have lots of accessories, over-the-top hair, makeup and wardrobe styling, inspired by their culture, its traditions, fashion and even their own upbringing and struggles as black entrepreneurs. “We’re often inspired to create work that speaks to the struggles, triumphs, and beauty of the black experience. It’s something that we’ll always carry with us and continue to honor through art,” Kahran said.

The two typically style most shoots themselves. They start by asking the kids to describe the shoot of their dreams, and from there, they develop an overall theme or concept. Then the pieces start coming together as they pull wardrobe that would work with the theme, drawing inspiration from movies, magazines and more. Then add in a team of talented makeup and hair stylists and the vision begins to come to life.

While married and working together may be hard for some, the minds behind the genius of CreativeSoul feel lucky to do it. "We're actually one of those weird couples that love being together 24/7 because we genuinely enjoy each other's company," said Regis. What makes it easier to work side-by-side is that each of them has their own individual strengths and responsibilities. Although they both shoot, Regis focuses more on the technical aspects of the shoots as well as assisting with some wardrobe pieces. Kahran uses her business background to handle the front end business and marketing side. In addition, working as a team also allows them to experience the highs and lows of the business and their projects together. They are able to travel and be creative together every day, and celebrate their artistic "wins" jointly. This duo is so passionate about their work that "it is exciting. The balance is there because even when we are working, it doesn’t feel much like work,” said Kahran.

The collaborative experience that combines their strengths and perspectives results in the creation of emotionally moving and memorable images. One of their most iconic photographs-- a young girl with an afro dressed in Baroque clothing-- is just one example of the power of their combined creative minds.

“That started out as a regular shoot with a little girl and turned out to be one of our most iconic photos to date,” said Regis. And it serves as a perfect example of their creativity mixing together for an unforgettable image. "And now with the introduction of AI, it's even more important to be able to provide something unique and memorable to your clients," Kahran said.

By using all of the tools available to them that are reflective of their culture, Kahran and Regis have evolved beyond just photography to build an empowerment brand for youth of color. This is something that the market needed and has been welcomed by the African American community. "We hope that people will be able to see the beauty and diversity of black kids across the African diaspora. We hope that kids viewing our photos will be able to see themselves relfected and that inspires them to overcome any obstacles they may face," said Kahran.

The duo now also has several published books. In fact, CreativeSoul Photography will be releasing its third book called "Crowned" in May. "This book reinterprets traditional fairy and folk tales, while also introducing fresh and original ones all in the unique and distinctive style of CreativeSoul. Our books have allowed our work to enter homes around the world and reach places that we may not be able to on our own," said Kahran. In addition, they have also released merchandise including the launch of a Disney Princess doll collection.

The passion and limitless creativity is what sets the duo of CreativeSoul apart, generating thought-provoking images and merchandise that has put them on the map while highlighting African and African American heritage and empowering kids of that background to shine. “We hope our imagery helps to create a society where all kids are created equally and feel empowered to move in the world as their true authentic self.”

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