Embracing Change: Antwaun Brown's Lifelong Journey in Photography
By Michael Schuette
Have you ever wondered simply how a childhood hobby could become a lifelong passion? That’s exactly the story of Antwaun Brown, or Pics by Brown, a talented photographer based in Phoenix, Arizona. His photography journey is as inspiring as it is captivating and can teach us all a thing or two about taking in our surroundings, tapping into our communities, and believing in our own worth. So, let’s dive into his story and discover how his passion for capturing moments has evolved through the years.
Image by Pics by Brown
Antwuan’s artistic calling can be traced back to his childhood, as he first recalls helping his older sister with her film classes while in middle school. This early exposure to the power of visual art in his formative years ignited a passion that, by 2017, grew into a serious pursuit.
Growing up in a traditional Southern family, Antwaun discovered the beauty of nature’s art through his outdoor adventures — fishing, hiking, and taking road trips between Tennessee and Louisiana. These experiences deeply influenced his artistic vision, giving his work a unique and personal touch rooted in his physical, almost fantastical surroundings.
Antwaun’s connection with nature wasn't just about appreciating its beauty, but also about understanding the intricate details that make it so captivating, focusing on each aspect of flora and fauna as if studying the strokes of a masterclass oil painting. This perspective is evident in the pictures that Antwuan has captured, as he seemingly immortalizes the essence of his surroundings, letting us feel the breeze through rolling hills, or opening our ears to the hustle and bustle of a cityscape. Antwaun’s ability to see and showcase the extraordinary in the ordinary sets his photography apart and manages to bring worlds to life through singular, still images.
Now onto the next visual adventure, Antwuan focuses mainly on the striking power of fashion runway photography and the bold colors found within. Blues and pinks often pop fiercely across Antwuan’s work with all other shades of the rainbow, capturing stunning runway models and striking innovative fashion.
Image by Pics by Brown
Truly, one of the aspects Antwaun loves most about photography is the joy it brings to those around him. “Capturing moments and seeing someone’s eyes light up because they see something in themselves they’ve never seen before is amazing.” Also speaking about the Phoenix art scene, Antwuan describes the area as dynamic and supportive, saying: “It’s a place where artists come together, help each other grow, and foster a strong sense of community. This kind of environment is crucial for nurturing creativity and innovation.” Devoid of any skill-level gatekeeping, Antwaun and the fellow artists in his community always lift each other up no matter the amount of experience, all in the name of growth and personal development.
However, when asked about what he would like to see improved in the Phoenix art community, Antwuan replied: "I’d like to see people sharing their craft more. We have people doing great things, but they don’t share it. Maybe honking their own horn and saying, 'Yeah, I did that,' would be cool."
Image by Pics by Brown
Antwuan is truly a leading example of this sentiment, putting his work out there for all to see. Looking ahead, he is excited about exploring new photography styles, most notably sports photography. While drone work remains a thrilling outlet for him, he’s eager to see where his artistic journey will take him next. His forward-thinking attitude reflects the ever-evolving nature of art.
In today’s digital world, art remains incredibly important. It’s a powerful way for us to express ourselves and connect with others. For Antwaun, each photograph is a piece of his soul, offering a glimpse into his unique vision and experiences.
In the words of Antwaun Brown: "Your art is you. If you don’t show who you are, no one will ever know your greatness." This highlights the importance of being true to oneself and sharing your creative talents with the world. Embracing your artistic expression can inspire others and leave a lasting impact, and following in the footsteps of a prominent, caring, uplifting artist like Antwuan, we might all hope to one day say, “Yeah, I did that.”
Edited by Juliet Reynolds on October 30, 2024
