Today I had the opportunity to sit in on a photo shoot for Carl Young; an up and coming musician who is breaking through the clutter with his elegant, sophisticated lyrics and smooth debonair style. Carl is truly an artist with his own crooner style and strong, masculine image. Currently working to promote his album, as well as brand himself in the public’ mind, Carl Young is stepping out as his own. Currently shooting promotional photos, the experience on set was a true reflection of Carl’s style and personality. The feeling was professional yet comfortable with Carl working closely with the stylists, photographer and director to capture the perfect reflection of his persona. Everyone on set was comfortable and friendly as they worked together keeping things light yet to the point.
As we arrived at Moroco Chocolat, the production set was prepared and abuzz with setting the lighting and preparing Carl for the shoot. This was the perfect location for such a shoot with its elegant and romantic yet edgy image, a mix of royal purples and black leather; an upper scale yet trendy lounge perfect for the strong sultry mood. The lounge itself is very unique as it is attached to the delightful chocolate boutique, the chocolates and macaroon work their way into the lounge as well as decorations on plants and table décor. As the crew prepared it was clear that the shoot was very comfortable and social with everyone joking and easing into the shoot. The feel on this set was perfect to emblemize Carl’s warm yet strong image. Carl’s face was constantly alight with smiles and laughs as the stylists joked with him while reorganizing his dress shirt and tie. He was extremely personable and open to all suggestions as well as ready to offer some of his own.
As things got started on set the main thought that came to mind was James Bond. Everything from the set to the clothing and Carl’s rugged sophisticated look came together to personify the ultimate 007 man, a feeling that I’m sure Carl as well as the ladies will appreciate. This style is one that appeals to everyone, the suave sexy feel for his female fans and a strong masculine feel for the males; Daniel Craig would be proud. The shoot began inside, posed against a dark leather couch with Carl in a black suit jacket and dark pants. The combination of dark on dark was perfect at accenting the shoots feel and really brought out a great array of comfortable yet sophisticated poses. This set provided for a variety of movement and freedom for creativity, while the deep tones really allowed Carl to stand out. From here the shoot moved outside to Moroco Chocolats all-white furnished patio where Carl was prepared in a white cream suit. The lighting and colors brought out the other side of Bond, the clean cut Miami vibe that contrasted perfectly to the rugged dark of the indoor shoot, and really allowed his deep blue eyes to dazzle. Outside the shoot became playful and easy going with Carl playing with the different furniture available while interacting and joking with the staff capturing his cool, easy-going side on camera.
The photo shoot was really a capturing experience that perfectly complimented and embodied Carl Young’s strong yet suave image and truly brought out his inner 007. I’m sure that these photos will perfectly compliment Carl’s musical style as well as truly present an image to the public of who Carl Young is. I know that I for one can’t wait to see how they turn out and to see how Carl takes his audience by storm.
- Janine Lubey
