Photographer Spotlight NYC: “King Texas”

The young and talented ‘King Texas’ has strived to make her name known in the nightlife scene and to the socialites of NYC. She has captured many memories over the past 6 years as a photographer at the biggest blowouts, the most poppin’ parties, and through her exquisitely intimate portraits. Over her journey, she has been affiliated with peers such as FPC (Fanny Pack Crew), Ill P, Methods NYC, Mastro, Complex, and The New Pop. Now she takes incredible shots with her Canon 5D and captures amazing moments. She’s also creatively captured Gold Money, a mixture of mixers, which includes DJ Lady Chellez, DJ Radio Rose, DJ Bonnie Danger, and DJ Jasmine Solano. Roll with us as we expose the flash behind the lens of photograpy’s finest. (in this picture Cody B.Ware)

Tell us a little about yourself. How long have you been doing photography?

I first discovered and pursued photography in 05′/06′ and from then it’s been an interesting ride. I went to CBGBs for the last year and a half before it closed down and covered numerous amounts of bands. I even photographed one of the last shows there featuring Bad Brains, and that was an amazing experience! That whole movement plays a huge part in what I believe in and how I am as a person today. After CBs closed down, I somehow stumbled into the nightlife scene and started taking photos. That is where I first met and was surrounded by FPC (Fanny Pack Crew), Ill P, Methods NYC, Mastro, Complex, The New Pop, and more. I must say the nightlife scene was very special back then. Few cameras were around, and people came out just to have fun.

What are some of the qualities you look at when you are taking professional shoots?

For the most part, I seek a connection with whoever it is I’m shooting. Any sort of connection. It’s a lot easier when both parties are comfortable, because the real intimate photos are developed that way. A lot of people think there is only one component when it comes to portraits, but there’s a lot that goes into it. It’s all energy-based whether you like to admit it or not. It’s pretty much like stepping into a new relationship every time. You never know what you are going to come out with.

What are you working with, mostly film or digital photography? Which do you favor the most, and why?

I shoot digital more, because it’s a lot more accessible. I started shooting film photography way before I thought about picking up a digital camera. For musicians, DJs, and producers, it’s like choosing (between) vinyl and serato. The old school way will always have a place in my heart. Nothing can really compare to film. It’s so raw and beautiful, man. However, at the end of the day, a good photograph is a good photograph no matter what instrument you used to take it. You have to know your history, though.

What’s next for the wonderful Texas? Film?

I’ve always been interested in video, especially when I was a part of The New Pop. It doesn’t stray too far from photography, since certain elements are similar, but its something I will pursue in the future.

How does it make you feel when you capture moments of the nightlife? What will you do with all the photos you have taken?

It gives me an immense feeling to capture anything. Nightlife is interesting and exciting sometimes. There are some events I have covered where everything was perfectly in sync. The energy, the crowd, the music, and the people. Those nights are great because you feel like you can conquer anything and everything. You are rocking it! I remember when I first started shooting I used to have a flask with me because I was so nervous, haha! I don’t do that anymore, by the way. Haha!

For the times where everything isn’t in sync, you have to strive for it. It’s always there. I’ve shot parties that have been flatlined before, but I made the best out of it. It’s all about what you bring to the table and how you approach people. As for now, I want to continue to build my archive. I’ve always wanted to create a book, but I don’t think it’s the right time to do that. I may have a possible photo show in the works for the future. In my opinion, doing a show or creating a book is pretty much creating a discography and that takes a lot of time to do.

What are some of your favorite photos you have taken, and of who?

That is always a difficult question to answer. I think some of my favorite photos that I have taken so far, were of my trip to Guyana (South America). I went with my mother and aunt to visit my grandparents and cousins. It was a very enlightening experience and it was a great way to show people that a lot more exists outside of New York. A lot of people live in very poor conditions, and yet they appreciate life. I look forward to going back again and eating some banging food and spending time with my family.

Do you feel like its tough in NYC to make a great name for yourself as an artist?

It’s tough to be in NYC, especially if the medium that you are pursuing is being over-saturated with a lot of people. I think the most difficult thing a lot of people have a problem with in New York is being themselves. Not being successful, gaining Internet fame, or attempting to pursue something they love. A lot of people struggle with just being them. The Internet among other things has a lot to do with this. NYC is tough as hell, but it’s a very accurate resemblance on how life is. You have your ups and downs. Everyone goes through it. You always have to remain positive, though. You always have to realize that someone else in the world is going through an experience that is ten times worse than yours. This city really takes care of you if you allow her to. If you really want something with all your fucking heart and you work hard for it, you’ll get it. There is no doubt about that!

When you want to escape from everything, what is it that you do?

I do yoga. I meditate. I walk around for hours. I’m always looking for different ways to escape, but those are my ways of getting away for right now.

What can we expect next from you?

I have some projects that I will continue this year: ‘On Days Like This, I Miss Her The Most’ , ‘Bedstuy Series’ , ‘Curisin’ With…’ and a visual interpretation project inspired by Brainfeeder and a bunch of different artists. I will be developing a couple more photo series/art installations as well as a POSSIBLE photo show. Also, more traveling will be done this year. There are a lot of things brewing that I can’t speak too much about but, I’m very excited about life and the future.

(King Texas)

Interview By: Zo Magic