As a photographer, every photoshoot is a new adventure, a unique story waiting to be captured through the lens. But my recent session with Rachel Tumada, the Miami-based DJ and rising star in the global underground electronic music scene, was something extraordinary.
I had crossed paths with Rachel a couple of times, but most of our interactions had been digital. There's something about her wry humor on social media that always struck a chord with me. We share a love for 90s hip-hop and a certain cynicism that only like-minded individuals can appreciate. This mutual understanding laid the groundwork for our collaboration.
Rachel has always been an enigma to me. Her beauty is effortless, almost as if she's unaware of it. Her talent as a DJ, particularly her residency at Club Space, speaks volumes, yet she carries herself with an unassuming grace. This humility, rare and endearing, is what I believe makes her truly special. I think she’s bad AF. “Not bad meaning bad but bad meaning good!”#RunDMC
I'd been nudging Rachel for years to step into my studio. Little did she know, it wasn't just about capturing her through my camera, but also about sharing laughs and immersing ourselves in the music we both adore.
Coming off a workshop on frequency separation techniques in Photoshop, I was eager to apply my enhanced skills in editing skin tones. This shoot with Rachel was the perfect opportunity. The images turned out stunning, though reflecting on them six months later, I ponder if I might have gone a bit overboard. Well, there's always room for more shoots, right, Ms. Mada?
Spending time with Rachel wasn't just about the photographs. It was about creating a space where art met personality. Providing her with professional images to bolster her burgeoning career was rewarding, but the real joy lay in the experience itself. It was more than a photoshoot; it was a celebration of talent, humor, and music.
Looking back, this photoshoot with Rachel was not just a session; it was a celebration of shared passions. As she continues to rise in the world of electronic music, these images will stand as a testament to her journey, her talent, and the day we spent encapsulating moments in time.
As Rachel continues to blow the f**k up globally, I look forward to more opportunities to capture her essence through my lens. After all, every photograph is a story, and Rachel's is one that the world needs to see & hear.
(click images to enlarge)
