We recently connected with Aquina Turner and have shared our conversation below.

Aquina , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

My journey in mastering the art of Makeup and Photography has been a result of relentless practice and a genuine passion for the craft. My exploration of Makeup began in 2004 during my high school years. My fascination with the intricacies of makeup artistry was sparked by my visits to Mac Counters with my mother, where I found myself captivated by the creative possibilities of makeup, particularly the iconic trends of the 90s.

It was my senior prom that marked a pivotal moment. Seeking a specific gold look, I ventured to the makeup counter, and there, I encountered a skilled makeup artist who exuded enthusiasm, expertise, and exceptional customer service. His guidance in selecting and utilizing the right products for my prom makeup ignited my journey as a makeup artist.

Photography, on the other hand, was an unexpected but equally transformative venture that began during high school. While my initial exposure to photography class lacked enthusiasm, my natural talent caught the eye of my photography teacher, Stan Cactti. Recognizing my potential, he employed innovative approaches to nurture my skills, motivating me to delve deeper into the realm of photography. My creative flair extended beyond photography, as I undertook design projects for my high school, crafting flyers, team t-shirts, and establishing a reputation as a creative force.

Transitioning to post-high school, my focus shifted more towards honing my makeup artistry skills, though my innate passion for photography never waned. In 2010, the pivotal moment arrived when I established a.lashaephotography. A single transformative photoshoot against the backdrop of a captivating Berkeley sunset, featuring two models including my sister-in-law, ignited a newfound determination to pursue photography as a full-time endeavor.

My journey in both disciplines has been largely self-taught, a path I embraced with dedication. Looking back, I realize that a more structured learning approach or mentorship could have potentially expedited my learning curve. Undoubtedly, the most essential skills I cultivated were a keen eye for detail, the ability to envision and create visual narratives, and the technical prowess to manipulate both makeup and photographic elements to convey emotions and stories.

Despite the strides I’ve made, obstacles emerged along the way. Balancing my creative pursuits with the demands of everyday life posed challenges. Additionally, the acquisition of quality equipment and resources presented financial hurdles that required strategic navigation. I lacked having a mentor, so everything was literally trial and error. I didn’t know the in’s and out’s of running a business at all and these type of things definitely could’ve helped get both of my brands off the ground much faster. However, these challenges only fueled my determination to persevere, learn, and excel in my chosen fields. Life definitely stood in the way a lot of the times, which caused me to start and stop constantly.

In conclusion, my journey as a Makeup Artist and Photographer has been a testament to the power of passion, practice, and the pursuit of continuous improvement. While self-taught endeavors have shaped my skills, I recognize the potential of mentorship for accelerated growth. The essential skills I cultivated continue to guide me, and despite the obstacles faced, my unwavering commitment to my craft remains steadfast.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Aquina Turner, an artist deeply immersed in the worlds of Photography and Makeup Artistry. My journey, which began in high school, has grown into a passionate pursuit that is shaped by a desire for representation and creative expression.

My initial spark for Photography emerged from a need for greater inclusivity. Frustrated by the lack of representation of black women in the industry, I ventured into the realm of photography to challenge norms and amplify the voices and stories of black women.

Two powerful inspirations, Loretta Houston and Neff Fresh, ignited my creative path. Their distinct and bold styles resonated with me profoundly, each capturing the true essence of a black woman in their unique ways. I yearned to encapsulate that essence through my lens, merging their influences into a vibrant and authentic representation of black women.

Simultaneously, my love for Makeup Artistry flourished. I witnessed the transformational impact makeup had on individuality and self-expression. Makeup became my medium for celebrating and amplifying diverse beauty, enabling me to empower others by enhancing their unique features.

Today, as a Beauty Photographer and Makeup Artist, my purpose is twofold. Through photography, I strive to challenge stereotypes and capture the multifaceted beauty of black women with a style that echoes the richness and authenticity of Loretta Houston and Neff Fresh. My makeup artistry complements this endeavor by infusing each look with a sense of empowerment and storytelling.

What sets me apart is not just my technical prowess but my unwavering dedication to empowering others through representation. By merging my passions, I am committed to creating an immersive experience that encapsulates the vibrancy, depth, and individuality of every subject.

As I continue this dynamic journey, I am inspired by the transformative impact of photography and makeup. It’s a privilege to capture the essence of black women and provide a platform for their stories to be seen and heard. Each photograph and makeup application is a testament to the resilience, beauty, and strength of the black community.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely, reflecting on my creative journey, there are two crucial resources I wish I had known about earlier: mentorship and business/creative grants. These invaluable assets could have been transformative for my businesses, propelling me forward and minimizing the challenges I faced through trial and error.

A mentor would have provided invaluable guidance, offering insights and wisdom accumulated from their own experiences. Having a mentor’s expertise would have saved me countless hours of frustration and helped me navigate the complexities of my creative endeavors with more clarity and confidence.

Similarly, awareness of available business and creative grants would have been a game-changer. These grants not only provide essential financial support but also validate and elevate the work of emerging artists and entrepreneurs. By accessing such resources, I could have focused more on innovation and growth, rather than grappling with financial constraints or making sacrifices that hindered my progress.

In hindsight, these untapped resources represent missed opportunities for growth and efficiency. However, I am dedicated to leveraging them moving forward to accelerate my journey and empower others in their creative pursuits. My experience underscores the importance of fostering a supportive ecosystem that nurtures and uplifts emerging talents, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to thrive from the very start.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely, representation stands at the core of my creative journey. I firmly believe in the power of visibility, especially for young individuals aspiring to venture into similar paths. Witnessing individuals who resemble them in the spaces they aspire to inhabit can ignite a profound sense of possibility and purpose.

As a mother, this sentiment holds even greater significance. I take immense pride in being a visible example for my children, demonstrating the importance of pursuing one’s passions relentlessly. Through my work, I want them to understand the value of dedication, hard work, and integrity, inspiring them to chase their dreams while upholding the highest standards.

Ultimately, my mission is to create a ripple effect of empowerment. By being a representation of what’s achievable, I hope to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive creative landscape, where every individual, regardless of their background, can be inspired to push boundaries, embrace their uniqueness, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative fulfillment.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alashaephotography.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/alashaephotography instagram.com/alashaeartistry
• Facebook: Facebook.com/a.lashae. Facebook.com/a.lashaeartistry
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aquina-turner-31699430