Q&A with The South End Show Stopperz
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Name: South End Show Stopperz
Location: Boston, MA
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The historic South End neighborhood, in Boston (MA), is known as a high end community to many. Known for it's 5 star restaurants and fancy condos, to say the least. But to those who grew up in the heart of it, like myself, it’s slightly different. My South End suffers from gang related violence, which at times had led to innocent people being seriously hurt and even killed. Drugs are a walk to the park away and youth programs struggle to maintain funding. Growing up we would make the best of any situation. Wether it was organizing our own baseball game, or just taking a walk to Down Town and catching a movie. I was fortunate enough to stay out of jail and make it past 21 (as funny as that may sound to some of you). Sad to say, many of my friends were not as lucky.
This month, when it was time to choose my final Q&A Interview for the year, I decided to interview someone from my own neighborhood, who in my eyes is making a difference beyond her understanding. Her name is Johanna Acevedo. She is a full time employee at the Administration & Finance office at Emerson College. Alongside Syreeta Ruiz, a full time student at Mt. Ida College, they founded The South End Show Stopperz dance group. It is made up of a group of teenage girls who fight the statistics by dancing. I had the honor of visiting a few of their practices and talking to a bunch of the girls. I quickly noticed how they rarely called themselves "a group". Many of them kept using the words “family” and “friends” when describing the program and it’s leaders. It was truly amazing for me to see these girls in action.
(I sat down with Johanna and spoke about the group)
Homeless For The Holidays
It was the morning of Thanksgiving day and I was sitting at home, at my desk. My daughter was spending the day with her mother so I didn't have any commitments. In great photographer/blogger spirit, I decided not to waste the day and work on a project. The only problem was I didn't have any.
I was browsing through my Facebook news feed when the idea came to me. Everyone was sharing words of appreciation, as they got ready to spend the day with their families. What I noticed was that most were not giving to those who needed it most. So, I decided to help someone in need.
There's a small bridge about 20 minutes (walking) away from my house, that connects Boston with Cambridge. Every time I walk by I notice the same homeless man, sitting there, by himself. I went on a mission to change his Thanksgiving day. Not only by helping him with food & clothes, but also by telling his story.
Lloyd Banks - Live in Cambridge, MA
I grew up listening to Hip Hop. Everything from 2pac to Eminem. One of the many artist I followed throughout my youth was Lloyd Banks (from G-Unit). Little did I know that years later I would help film one of his live performances. It was a moment when all of a sudden anything seems possible. It's my pleasure to share this moment with you all! Enjoy!
Rhode Island Comic Con (2013)
This past weekend I took a trip to Providence, Rhode Island. I attended the Comic Con with my colleague Dante Luna, who was working on a short documentary ("Contrast of Evil"). We were granted full media access, which included the privilege of interviewing big celebrity names. The documentary will be featured on his YouTube account as soon as it's ready to go. In between breaks I decided to capture some of my favorite costumes. ENJOY!
Kicks "N" Kush Hits Newbury Street
Newbury Street is best known to us Bostonians as a shopping haven. Most (if not all) stores cater to those individuals with an expensive taste for clothes, food & life itself. Although there are many options to choose from, it was lacking a clothing store with an urban vibe. One Off Apparel changed that on September 27th (2013) when it opened it's doors to the public; attracting over 100 visitors in the first few hours. They chose to unite forces with Kush Groove Clothing Company and hosted the first of three "Pop-Up Shop" events scheduled to tour numerous stores around the area. Each event will feature a special performance & exclusive clothes inspired by the urban city lifestyle.
Classes During the Day & BMX Bike Stunts at Night
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| Samuel (Student at Wentworth) |
"The best pictures are always those you don't plan."
I either heard that quote somewhere or just made it up, but it's true. Personally, I get a natural high from coming across a picture. There is something about capturing a spontaneous moment that can not be put into words, only felt.
Just the other night, on my way home, I came across a few college students doing tricks on BMX bikes (gotta' love the city). I had just finished up a project with fellow artist, Dante Luna, when we spotted them mid-air as we turned into a street. Of course, we stopped to mingle.
Forward With Felix Arroyo (The People's Mayor)
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| Felix Arroyo alongside his team & supporters. |
Being born and raised in the city of Boston has been an amazing experience for me, to say the least. I've spent the last 10+ years of my young life living in the Historical South End. More specific, the Villa Victoria. A neighborhood that was formed in the late 1960s by Puerto Rican activists, who stood up against private companies who aimed to gain control over their urban development. After years of protest they were successful, and turned what was known as Parcel 19 into a healthy community for low-income families.
Growing up I've heard this story plenty of times but it continues to be an inspiration for me. Not only has Boston taught me to be strong, but the history in my neighborhood has taught me to unite and fight for what I believe in. Which is why today I come to you, not as a blogger but a person. Change can only come when those who desire it take action.
If you're a Boston citizen, I hope you will be voting this month for our next possible Mayor. Although all the candidates have the best interests of our city in mind, I can promise you that Felix Arroyo is "The People's Mayor". I've been documenting his mayoral campaign since June (here and there). Today I met him and his team at Forest Hills Station, as he greeted people on their morning commute.
"Best Child Portrait" WINNERS!
After attending (and of course photographing) a family pool party last month, I was inspired to create a "Best Child Portrait" Contest. I figured it would be a good way to interact with my viewers and incorporate their work on my blog/site.
One BIG Thank You to everyone who participated. Originally I was only going to choose "1" winner. But- after seeing all the great work I decided to bend the rules and chose my favorite 3 instead.
One BIG Thank You to everyone who participated. Originally I was only going to choose "1" winner. But- after seeing all the great work I decided to bend the rules and chose my favorite 3 instead.
A Weekend in the Dominican Republic
Being a photographer, I always envisioned myself in a foreign land, documenting a culture unfamiliar to me. Trying to adapt to the ways of the locals; absorbing all knowledge they have to give away to a stranger like myself. To then return home with amazing pictures that'll allow me to share my journey with others.
Well, this was all a "dream" up until last month, when my aunt chose the Dominican Republic as her wedding location. A few other family members and myself got our tickets last minute (with the help of the bride). After some paperwork and passport fees, we were finally ready to go.
After I returned and had a chance to review my photos, I chose a few of my favorite shots and added the back stories to go along with them.
Wedding Photography (Summer of 2013)
The Summer is always a good time to tie the knot. I was honored to have been able to capture a few special moments. Here are five of my favorite pictures, which I chose to represent my Summer of photographing weddings. Enjoy!
Q&A with Dante Luna (Freelance Filmmaker & Photographer)
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Name: Dante Luna
Location: Roslindale, MA
Profession: Freelance Filmmaker & Photographer
Website: http://www.youtube.com/eldantico
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I came across Dante Luna's work online a while back. Far back enough to the point that I can't even remember exactly when. We met in person about a year ago, through a mutual friend. Since our first conversation, we have collaborated on numerous photography projects, traveled to Philadelphia (to Interview Jason David Frank [known as the Green Power Ranger]), documented countless events and even photographed a few weddings. Not to mention a few extra spontaneous adventures along the way (which I didn't mind).
I've met many talented individuals in my career, but what makes Dante different then the rest is his spirit (his being). He is the type of person that know's exactly who he is and what he wants. His vision is crystal clear. Maybe just to him, but it's clear! Which is normal, considering he has an artistic mind. His arms (and neck) are covered in tattoos; each one comes with a story worth telling and hearing. Not once will you see Dante without his camera, and if you do, best believe he'll be using his phone as a replacement. He is constantly in a state of creation. Wether it be a video, photo or poem.
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| Dante Luna (left) interviewing JayPix (right) |
I sat down with Mr. Luna and asked him some questions about his career. It was truly my pleasure; by far one of my favorite interviews. Enjoy!
"Best Child Portrait" Contest!
I've experimented with all types of photography, but there's none that I love to do more then portraits! There is something about capturing the emotion, the spirit and energy of a human that gives me a natural high. Portraits can tell the story of a person, or highlight a certain time in their life. Things can get a little harder when the subject is a child, but it also gets fun. So, I challenge all my viewers (and inspiring photographers) to take a stab at it.
It's not a demand. It's a challenge! A contest!
Create Your Own Collage (using PicMonkey)
The one thing I enjoy as much as capturing the images, is editing them! It's the moment when I get to dive into my pool of creativity.
This past weekend, the weather was awesome! I brought my camera along for a day of swimming, screaming and laughing, as my family and I celebrated my uncle's birthday. I took over 800+ pictures total, but I got my best shots pool-side.
I been using PicMonkey.com for a while now, to edit my photos before I publish them online. This FREE online program allows you to adjust the exposure, colors, shadows & more! It also allows you to create collages, which is what I decided to do.
Q&A with Gabriel Duluc (23 Year Old Boxer)
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| Gabriel Duluc |
Gabriel Duluc is a 23 year old upcoming boxer from Dorchester, MA. With a professional record of 8-0, Duluc is on his way to a promising career. But his journey thus far has been anything but easy.
Alongside his mother, he made his way to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic in 2000, when he was only 10 years old. He began training at the age of 14 at the Grealish Boxing Club; under the wing of well respected boxing coach, Martin Grealish. Duluc showed dedication and passion for the sport since day one. But his will to fight was tested, after being denied entrance to several boxing tournaments, due to his illegal status of residency (at that time in his early career). The average person might have thrown in the gloves in this situation, but not Duluc. After years of paper work and a long stressful process, the fight for his residency proved to be his biggest win yet. Since then, he has set his eyes on becoming a legend. After competing in numerous tournaments around the nation, Duluc has successfully brought home numerous belts. 3 of which are hanging up in the gym, as trophies (or a reminder). It's easy to assume they are on display to serve as a confident booster, but I see much more. I see proof that obstacles are only there to test your faith and ambition.
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| John Hutchinson (left), Gabriel Duluc (right) |
After witnessing Gabriel in action (sparring), I had the privilege of sitting down with him and asking him a few questions.
If It Wasn't For Pictures
I spent my 4th of July like most did: eating juicy hamburgers off the smoking grill, sipping amazing mixed drinks and enjoying great conversations with friends and family. The weather was perfect and fireworks decorated the clear sky. But everyone knows a cook-out isn't complete without good music.
Luckily that same day, American rapper, Jay Z, released his 12th studio album, titled Magna Carta Holy Grail. Although I like all the songs, "Oceans" (featuring Frank Ocean) stood out to me the most. To be more specific, it was a line in Jay Z's verse that inspired this article. The song deals with his personal and ancestral journey from slavery to millionaire. In one line he refers to pictures being the only reason why some people have been able to see him.
His exact words are:
"If it wasn't for these pictures they wouldn't see me at all"
"If it wasn't for these pictures they wouldn't see me at all"
This got me thinking; he was right! Without photos, how else would some of us witness certain events, people or places the world has to offer. Thanks to pictures, I have a clear mental image of the Eiffel Tower in France and of the Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Kids can experience the jungles of the Amazon and couples can relive their wedding day. Photography has played a key role in the process of sharing not only our (human) history, but also our personal lives. This simple realization left me in complete awe!
It brought me back to a conversation I shared with a special friend of mines, when she told me the story of how her parents met. Her father was living in New York city (1970s), when he saw a picture of a beautiful women during a visit to his friend's home. After learning she was single and living in Puerto Rico, he set his mind on conquering her heart. They began exchanging letters and photos; getting to know one another, despite the distance. After months of communicating via mail, they finally had the chance to meet, and proceed with their love. Me and my friend laughed about how that photo brought her to existence. Although we joked about it, it was true. If it wasn't for that picture, her father would have never seen her mom (at least not when he did). It wasn't the quality of the picture or the photographer. It wasn't the scene or the composition. The subject was all that mattered.
As a photographer, I am aware of the power I have. To capture and share my life with others. Every second I spend with my camera is an opportunity to freeze a moment worth remembering.
So, if it wasn't for pictures... what would you have missed?
(send me an email with your answer: MrFlakoVeli@gmail.com)
48 Hours w/ a 50mm
The world of photography is made up of many different styles. Each one different than the next, but all connected by an artistic thread. The key is to find one (or more) that speak to you as an artist. I personally tend to lean towards street (candid) photography more often than usual. Although I enjoy experimenting from time to time.
Picture this: It's mid-afternoon and you're aimlessly walking around the city. No destination in mind, only your instincts to guide you. Your eyes notice the homeless man sitting on the sidewalk, asking for spare change. The young girl, who's riding her bike in circles, making sure to stay inside the imaginary lines her parents told her about. Your attention is then drawn towards the birds in the sky, as they play in the sun light above you.
These are all spontaneous moments that can not be orchestrated, only captured. This technique is best known as The Decisive Moment. A technique made famous by French photographer, Henri Cartier-Bresson. Known for sitting on locations for hours, only to walk away with two or three pictures. Patience was his greatest friend, as well as life itself. At times he would even hide his camera from the view of his subjects, to make it as natural as possible. This method of work is what led him to be known as the Godfather of Street Photography. While researching his work, I came across an interesting fact: Henri was a big fan of the 50mm lens. Most of his work was done using this specific lens.
That fact alone brought me to the presence of fellow artist and good friend of mines, Dante Luna. Around that time we were working on The Samurai Exhibit project, and I was aware he has been using a 50mm lens. After a small talk, we both agreed to switch lenses for 48 hours. He would use my 18-55mm and in return I would use his 50mm. I wanted to see the world through the eyes of Henri himself. So, I did.
(To view this project CLICK HERE)
The Pictures. The Winter. The Camera.
My mother has always been the type to take pictures. She's always owned a camera. During family vacations, she would photograph EVERYTHING. She would tells us to "stand here", then "stand there" and "get closer". My brothers and I (and my father) hated it. We use to make funny faces in almost every picture. My mother would sometimes complain about not owning a single "good" picture of us. But after we would return home, she would develop hundreds of pictures and place them in albums (or boxes). Those are The Pictures that I now sit down to look at.
Years later I have come to realize the significance of a picture. The fact that each picture is a specific second captured in time. A memory in the mind of the photographer. Pictures allow a person to share what they see and how they see it. You can learn about a person's life by looking at their pictures (memories). Pictures are worth a thousand words.
That Christmas, my mother received a brand new camera as a gift from my father. An upgrade from the point-and-shoot she had for a while. I don't remember what I felt or what I was thinking at the time; I just remember asking her for the point-and-shoot. She didn't even think about it and handed it to me. At first I photographed everything around the house and played with the features. Didn't think much of it.
One snowy morning I decided to walk around the city; due to a case of boredom. It would be the first time I bring the camera with me anywhere. I started taking pictures of what ever I found visually attractive. I can recall snow covered sidewalks, snow covered parks, snow covered streets and snow covered buildings. Basically, snow covered everything. Those will always be my first pictures. Unfortunately, I soon after lost the camera during a trip to New York, so I never had the chance to develop any of the pictures. Including the ones from the trip itself.
At first it troubled me. Not only was I excited about certain images I obtained, but it was my new camera. Luckily, as if the Universe stepped in, Tax season came around not a second too soon. I invested that year's tax return on a Canon PowerShot S5 IS. Little did I know that this would be The Camera that would shape my career.
Now at this present moment, years later, I sit here and think back to those pictures, that Winter and that camera. Each one represents a moment in my life that somehow got me here, speaking to you, the reader.
Join me, on my journey, as I share my thoughts and show you and the rest of the world my point of view through my work.
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