Behind the Lens: Dixon Munro with StanFlo
Toronto Artist, Dixon Munro shares her heartfelt behind the scenes journey collaborating with photographer, StanFlo Photography in Orlando.
Behind the Lens: My Journey with StanFlo in Orlando
The Beginning of a Beautiful Collaboration
I first saw StanFlo's work on Instagram and we made a mutual connection, so when he reached out to me to collaborate on some photos, I was excited with what was to come . It was one of those serendipitous moments where you just know something extraordinary is about to happen. As a black female artist and musician, I’m always on the lookout for other talent that understands my voice and vision, and StanFlo’s work spoke to me on a deeply aesthetic level. His photos always captured black people and black community in a respectful light and that was something I admired. Little did I know, this was the start of an empowering and creatively fulfilling journey.
Exploring the Creative Process
From the moment we started brainstorming, it was clear that this collaboration would be more than just a series of photoshoots. StanFlo has a unique ability to see beyond the surface, diving deep into the emotions and stories behind the art. We didn't spend too much time discussing themes, as he came in with a set idea. We were to shoot in one of his studios in Orlando, Florida. a. Each session felt like an exploration, not just of the physical spaces we inhabited, but of our inner worlds. I brought my music and personal experiences to the table, and StanFlo translated those into visual narratives that were both powerful and poignant. The mutual respect and open communication between us fueled our creativity, making every project a masterpiece in its own right.
Empowerment Through Unity
As we delved deeper into our work together, a sense of unity and empowerment began to emerge. It wasn’t just about capturing beautiful images; it was about telling a story—my story, our story. As a black woman in the arts, I’ve faced my share of challenges and setbacks, but through this collaboration, I found a new sense of strength and resilience. StanFlo's dedication to showcasing my authenticity and celebrating my heritage made me feel seen and valued in a way I hadn’t before. Our partnership became a powerful statement of solidarity, proving that when artists come together with a shared vision, they can create something truly transformative.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back on our journey, I’m filled with gratitude and pride. Each photoshoot, each candid moment captured, represents a chapter in a story of growth, empowerment, and artistic evolution. StanFlo’s lens not only documented my journey but also amplified it, allowing me to reach audiences in ways I never thought possible. The collaborative process challenged me to dig deeper into my artistry, to embrace vulnerability, and to trust in the power of shared creativity. The impact on my work has been profound, pushing me to explore new artistic avenues and to continue striving for excellence in all I do.
The Future of Collaborative Artistry
As I look back, I am filled with gratitude with the art processes I've experienced and can relive in memories. As I to the future, I’m excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead. I genuinely enjoy working with StanFlo as he continues to show me the incredible potential of unity in art.