Houston Hustle: Behind the Lens and Beyond

The Untold Legacy

So, I got curious and did a bit of digging before my trip to get some more inspiration for the shoot and to really understand what my client's brand is all about. And guess what? There's this whole fascinating world of history and culture behind cowboys and cowgirls that I never even knew existed! You know, I've been to a few cowboy-themed parties and seen some pretty cool photoshoots, but this was on a whole different level. Artists like Solange and Lil Nas X have been totally embracing those Wild West vibes in their style and music. And now, Beyoncé just dropped a new single with a country vibe, which is kind of putting the whole Western thing back on the map. Plus, have you seen that movie "The Harder They Fall" on Netflix? It's adding even more fuel to the fire. I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing a lot more of this cowboy stuff everywhere soon, especially with Beyoncé possibly working on a country album. Crazy, right?

But it doesn't stop there. I found out that black cowboys and cowgirls are keeping their legacy alive through riding clubs and rodeos across the country. It's pretty exciting stuff!

And did you know Texas was once its own country? Yeah, crazy, right? From being an independent nation to its role in the Mexican-American War, Texas has a lot of history. Plus, it's known for being big in everything – from its landscapes to its oil industry. There's so much more to Texas than meets the eye.

Black cowboys have this amazing, often overlooked history. They were true trailblazers, shaping the American West with their riding and herding skills. Despite facing discrimination, they left behind a legacy of resilience and determination. And it's not just history – black cowboys are still making waves today, like this awesome 11-year-old cowgirl Kortnee Solomon competing on televised rodeos.

It's Women's Month, so I've been diving into stories like Kortnee's and others breaking boundaries in this industry. It's inspiring to see people achieving greatness in unexpected places. Check out the links below if you want to learn more!

Articles: Andscape; Dazed; Signature 

48 Hours in Houston

Fast forward to my trip – The client had a clear vision – from the vibe to the brand image – and I was completely on board from the get-go. With the mood set and schedules locked, I hit the road, flying solo to Houston. 

Despite the minor hiccup of missing my flight (note to self: level up the airport attire game), I arrived on time at the set in one piece. And let me tell you, the location was pure magic. We had multiple sets, outdoor shoots, and even a friendly horse owned by one of the crew members – it was giving authenticity!

During the shoot, we had an absolute blast, and I might've gone a tad overboard with the footage (but can you blame me?). And, of course, my inner photographer couldn't resist capturing some stunning shots along the way. The client and I hit it off swimmingly, and we even made plans to explore Houston once the shoot wrapped up.

Houston did not disappoint in the slightest. From unexpected business calls to impromptu catch-ups with old friends, every moment was brimming with excitement. And let's not forget about the food – a big shoutout to Hector for treating me to some unforgettable fries at the Breakfast Bar!  

As the day turned into night, we embarked on an adventure through Houston's hottest spots, stumbling upon hidden gems like Rockhouse and Clover. Laughter, good company, and a sprinkle of adventure – that's what Houston had in store, and I couldn't have asked for more. 

Reflecting on my journey, it's clear that each gig serves as a stepping stone to the next. The knowledge gained and the hard work put in during each project prepares me for bigger opportunities down the line. In the world of freelancing and creative pursuits, hustling is key. Every gig, no matter how big or small, presents an opportunity to showcase your skills and make a lasting impression. It's about treating each project with the same level of dedication and professionalism, as if you're working for Beyoncé herself. This mindset not only ensures that you deliver your best work every time but also opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations. After all, you never know who might be watching or where a seemingly small project might lead. So, embrace the hustle, pour your heart and soul into every endeavor, and watch as your efforts pave the way for greater success in the future.

So, while I may not have stumbled upon my future husband during my short visit  (perhaps next time, eh?), one thing's for certain – Texas, you haven't seen the last of me.

Until next time, keep chasing those dreams and adventures. Stay tuned I will be releasing more photos from this project on my instagram.