Close-Up | Lex Allen

Hey Belles&Beux,

Before I share my weekend in Chicago- I'm so excited I was able to interview Milwaukee photographer, Lex Allen. I actually found this beyond talented guy through Ella's portfolio and was totally impressed of course. After interviewing him I can't wait to work with him in the future.

How long have you been a photographer?

When I was 10 photography and I met by chance, so you could say I've been doing this for 15 years, but I'm still learning and constantly growing. As a kid I'd always have my Kodak film camera in hand, capturing pictures of family & friends in the wildest of moments. It wasn't until my oldest brother let me use his Sony -you know the ones that needed a floppy disk- that my love for digital photography took shape. Being able to create freely with this limitless imagination of mine was a gift given by the digital gods.

How did you get into the industry?

Getting into this lovely industry took time, effort, building & bonding; but most importantly it took belief in myself. There was a time when I seriously contemplated giving up on it ALL and not just my photography, my music (singer/songwriter) as well. As an artist being tough on ourselves is the struggle. The critics we make of ourselves is what makes us stronger, wiser, and ultimately fuels our passion. Regaining my confidence, I began reaching out to Milwaukee designers/models/photographers & collaborating on some marvelous projects that I'm so very proud of.

Having  faith in my abilities, I landed an unbelievable internship with the FM Style Studio team. Being around such creative minds my eyes were open to new possibilities & productions. The fact that they embraced my creative individuality, made it all the the better. I feel at home with them. 

What/Who inspires you?

For me, inspiration comes in the form of simplicity. Overdoing things can come across as too forced, unnatural and contrived. In the world of art that is acceptable, who's to say I won't experiment and break free of the simplistic style I hold near and dear to my heart.

Who inspires me you ask... look in the mirror. You are a person, so you inspire me. We all take inspiration from what we see, hear, feel, etc.

When I create that formula does not change, its just interpreted differently. We are our interactions with the world, it molds who & what we are as a people.

What has been your favourite shoot?

My favorite shoot? Probably the portraits I did of my mother on her birthday. They have this really retro feel to them, almost surreal. She has been captured in time. I know I know I sound like a total mommas boy, well, thats because I am. 

All my shoots are different yet my personal style is distinguishable, the work I produce serves a purpose. When I put my eye to that cushy view finder on my Canon, my goal is to capture an image that evokes some sort of emotional reaction. It can be good or bad as long as you are moved.

What is your advice to new photographers trying to get in the industry?

Do whatever the hell it is you want to do! There are no rules... make them love it! 

People will tell you that: 
"You suck." 
"Try something new."
"Do something that matters."

Those are the people to ignore, because they're intimidated by your ability to imagine, to create and to dream; you may even inspire them! Don't turn black and blue holding your breath for them to tell you that you really do inspire them. We are the creators & innovators; no need to miss out on your calling because of some simpletons negative words.

If you could shoot any model or celebrity who would it be?

This is a tricky sticky question... If I had to choose only one it'd have to be Shia LaBeouf. I've wanted to hang out with that guy since the 'Even Steven' days. To photograph him now would just take the cake!

What do you think about DSLR photos on instagram?

DSLR images on Instagram are allowed. As an artist all we want is our work to be seen, its just another format to help reach new eyes.

Check out more of his amazing photos and follow his future shoots on his facebook page.

Stay Fabulous,
xoxo Aimee