As we celebrate Black History Month in February, Gaskins Photography Collection (with the help of a team) put together an outstanding shoot to show some African heritage. These shoots couldn't be successful without the wonderful team that we put together. This shoot was very fun as all the models were experience and was given little direction. They just came in the studio and was ready to slay.

Model: Brenda Jalise; International Model; Instagram: brendajalise_themodel

Whenever we are together in the studio, we give direction that is very simple. The direction in these shots are simply power. Look powerful in ever shot and be yourself. When you are yourself, you bring out your inner beauty.

Model: Dieynaba Diop; Fashions Model, Instagram: Belleflani

As noted repeatedly in my blogs, this is a team effort. It may look like a simple shoot but it take a lot of behind the scenes work. The make up was done by the wonderful Shelice Sheppard. You can follow her on Facebook at Shelice Sheppard Mua to view her work. All African attire is provided by the Company Back Naked. You can follow them on instagram @ Backnaked.

Model: Mariah Kelli; Model and Mentor; Instagram: themariahkelli

Lets talk about light. All lighting and shot was done in the studio with a black backdrop. The black backdrop was a decision to bring out the vibrants colors on the clothing entire. The photos were taking with a Canon 5d Mark II with an 70-200 2.8 canon lens. I was shooting at 85mm with an aperture of f/11, shutter speed 1/160, and ISO 100. I shoot at a high f-stop to get all detail on the whole frame. White Balance in the studio is always set at K 5600 for my Canon. It gives out a true skin tone color for my Canon 5D. The strobe that was used in this shot is the Broncolor Para 222. This is an amazing strobe that brings out skin tone like no other strobe that I have ever used. Even though they are very expensive, they are worth every dollar.

All images taken by Carter Gaskins of Gaskins Photography Collection.

www.Gaskins-Photography.com

Make-up: Shelice; Instagram: Shelice_mua Clothing Attire: Back Naked; Instagram: backnaked