Vernel Black Interview | Respect The Shooter
Where are you from?
New York, NY
How did you get into photography/videography?
I was 12 years old when I began to pursue photography. Originally, I wanted to become an anchor person in a news station but because of my speech impairment (stuttering), I chose to be a photojournalist because individuals can see my expression through pictures.
Unlike an anchor person who has to speak in front of the camera, in photography you can take pictures, display the photos, and explain to the audience briefly about your work. Then the images do most of the talking. My favorite subjects in photography are architecture and nature.
What was your first camera?
Minolta Dynax 500si 35mm.
What camera do you currently use?
Canon Rebel T3 and iPhone 14.
How did you learn your craft and advance your skills?
I started my photography journey at International Center of Photography Teen Academy and NAACP ACT-SO. I graduated with my Associates in Commercial Photography at LaGuardia Community College in 2015. I received a B.A. in Photojournalism from Marymount Manhattan College in 2017.
Being diagnosed with Autism at a young age has caused me to spend time alone. During these times, I visualized life through pictures and the power they possess made me enamored with this art medium.
Do you have any nicknames? How did you get that name?
I never have a nickname due to the uniqueness of my name (Vernel). Every person I meet always calls me by my given name. The origin of my name is a combination of my mom's first name and my dad's middle name. My name also comes from the Latin word "Vernal" meaning springtime and to flourish.
If you could take photos of any 3 people that are alive today, who would they be?
Lu Sierra, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and myself.
If you could take photos in any 3 cities, what would they be?
Georgetown, Guyana, South America
Amsterdam
Denver, Colorado
What is your dream as an artist?
My dream is to become a photojournalist that specializes in documentary photography and journalism.
What music do you listen to when you edit photos?
I listen to R&B music or Jazz when editing my photos.
What is your dream as a photographer?
My dream as a photographer is to travel to many countries to create new stories through my images. I will also tell my life story as an Autistic woman and a photographer to inspire people that anything in life is possible with the right support, grit, and knowledge.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to be a photographer/videographer?
Take any opportunities to make your dream(s) excel and do not be afraid to approach people.
Connect
Instagram
instagram.com/casandra6935
Facebook
facebook.com/Casandras-Photography-by-VB
Photography credit
Casandra's Photography by V.B.
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