Faces of Harlem: Zakkiyah | Harlem Portrait Photographer

When I was "training" for my wedding last year, Zakkiyah was my personal trainer extraordinaire. She helped me drop two, yes that's right, two sizes in record time. Now, don't get it twisted because there were blood, sweat and tears involved, but Zakkiyah made it all an enjoyable experience. She lives in her family's brownstone on 124th and 5th, the Mount Morris Park Historic District , which I will be forever envious of. It's the most beautiful neighborhood in Harlem, hands down! There is a great story behind her shoot, but I'll save it for when I debut Faces of Harlem's new virtual home later this year. Sista Zock is a true performer and does spoken word around town. I love subjects who need little direction and who are always ready for the camera and Zakkiyah was on the money! 

Alpha Phi Alpha Affair at the Broad Street Ballroom

My husband Jorge, a longtime member of Alpha Phi Alpha, and I attended a beautiful event at the Broad Street Ballroom on Saturday evening. It was a perfect reason to get dolled up even though the DJ labeled Biggie's Get Money, "old school." Maybe we really are just getting old! Happy Birthday MLK!

*** All images taken with my Canon Powershoot ***

Steven's Photo Shoot in the City of Angels/ Los Angeles Child Photogrpher

I guess it would have been helpful to post with pictures Sunday night. My bad! 

While I was visiting LA over the holidays, one of my best buds, Cathy, asked me to photograph her nephew Steven, and their dog, Loba. We decided on Griffith Park like any loyal Angeleno would, and were quite lucky with the weather. The rain had finally stopped and there was remarkable visibility of Downtown LA and the Pacific Ocean. Steven was so much fun and up for anything I suggested, which goes back to the reason why I LOVE shooting kids.

I'm running a New Year's special right now, so if you're reading this, my portrait sessions are 50% off until the end of the month and you can email me at ilene {dot} squires {at} gmail {dot} com to schedule one today. Check out my children's portfolio HERE and c'mon, give me a reason to flee these freezing temps for a little LA sunshine! I'll be in LA a few times over the next few months so book your sesh today!

All images shot with my Canon 5D Mark II and 24 - 105 lens