Today we’d like to introduce you to Chevelle Taylor.
Hi Chevelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Chevelle, I am a Photographer based in Houston, and I specialize in photographing and retouching black women.
I was raised in New York and New Jersey before making my way to the Nation’s Capital (DC) to pursue my undergraduate degree at Howard University.
I’ve explored and excelled in many art mediums (including painting, digital art, and drawing) but photography is my favorite thus far.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the past, I’ve had an internal struggle with wanting to be a creative and wanting to be well off. Now, I KNOW that you can be both but, at times along my journey, it has felt impossible.
Growing up hearing the ‘struggling artist’ rhetoric that is out there + coming from a Caribbean/Jamaican background (IYKYK), it felt like I would inevitably be broke if I pursued what I actually wanted to do— be an artist.
Because of this mindset, I’ve taken countless jobs that I hated, worked on things I haven’t been passionate about, and, ultimately, not living out my God-given purpose… But now is where my story changes.
I’ve leaned into who I am, and though it is not the easiest at times, I am prioritizing the happiness and fulfillment that comes with pursuing my passions over the (false) security of what the ‘American Dream’ should look like.
I am an artist, I was born one, and now I am stepping into that role.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In my journey as a photographer, I’ve done everything from events to headshots to product shots.
My focus is collaborating with black women and black owned business. I understand my target audience, their wants, and needs when it comes to photography.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was born in Queens, New York in October 1994. I am a first-generation American (Jamaican and Belizean).
Growing up in New York, I was surrounded by creative inspiration, especially since my Mom worked at an office in Times Square.
She would bring me into the city often. Under the dancing lights of 42nd Street, I would see street artists paint caricatures and breakdancers perform on the pavement. I went to Broadway plays and watched the colorful Toys R Us Ferris wheel in amazement.
I felt an excitement rise up in my spirit when I was around anything creative. I’ve felt this my entire life— it’s almost like God’s game of ‘Hot and Cold’ (remember playing that growing up?), every time I get close to my purpose, I feel an indescribable joy- hot. Whenever I rear away from the purpose- cold.
As I said before, I was born an artist, so little hints of my purpose and inspiration have been weaved into my life story.
Contact Info:
- Email: chevelletaylor@gmail.com
- Website: ChevelleTaylor.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/chevelle.jpg
Image Credits
Chevelle Taylor
