Cullen's Lense Photography

What Is dark queens?

With Dark Queen, we immerse ourselves in the exquisite allure of feminine beauty, traversing realms where grunge intertwines with alternative sensibilities, all the while exuding an unparalleled, intoxicating chicness that remains firmly entrenched in the tapestry of current voguish expressions. I asked the models to don leathers and pieces of denim, invoking a striking duality of black and white minimalism juxtaposed against vibrant neon bursts. 

To explain the concept deeper, Dark Queen transcends the boundaries of mere representation, for it encapsulates an ethereal vibe. This all-encompassing aesthetic beckons to the very essence of its existence. The women I so skillfully captured, they possess an undeniable loveliness, a beauty that radiates from within. But the intangible energy, the elusive aura they emanate, compelled me to relentlessly pursue their essence, rendering them my revered Dark Queens.

What this collections means to me

With Dark Queen, I delved into the depths of self-discovery, seeking to uncover the very essence of my unique aesthetic. Prior to starting to work at Pulse, I was shooting what I could with minimal creative direction and character. As a result, my lens captured fragments of the world, lacking substantial creative direction or distinct character. After that, at Pulse, I was shooting what they wanted and their brand.

Surprisingly, this moment marked a unique turning point, where I finally embark upon an odyssey to define my true artistic identity and craft a brand that epitomizes my essence. I have unearthed my multifaceted self as a photographer and a visionary creative director, intricately weaving my imagination into tangible reality. This captivating process has granted me an avenue to express my innermost self in ways I could scarcely fathom.

The genesis of this series brims with exhilaration. Initially conceived as a mere endeavor to elevate my portfolio, it soon transformed into an immersive journey. This expedition traversed the realms of inspiration and model selection. It was during the creation of my first mood board that the name “Dark Queen” instantaneously materialized. Its mystifying resonance encapsulated the essence of the series. 

I hope you enjoy the series as much as I did create it, for it embodies the very essence of my artistic metamorphosis.