Interwoven: Celebrating Black Hair, Sisterhood, and Creative Freedom
“Black hair is art. Sisterhood is strength. And when creatives come together with a shared purpose, the result is nothing short of magic.”
Some projects are more than just a shoot—they’re a movement. Interwoven, a recent photoshoot brought to life by a powerhouse creative team, set out to celebrate the beauty and identity of Black hair through the themes of sisterhood and connectedness. But what unfolded was something even deeper: a space where artistry, authenticity, and community thrived.
A Vision Rooted in Community
What started as a discussion around Black History Month evolved into a creative collaboration that highlighted the power of Black women in the beauty and fashion space.
"The inspiration was truly the team," said Abby Lee, photographer and creative director based in Virginia and Washington, D.C. “Essence’s dress designs grounded the work. Britknee’s makeup was an expression of art. Tangie and Dajour, our hairstylists, brought a flow to the models’ hair that embodied the entire project. Sami and Jasmine, our muses, didn’t just bring it to life—they created a new breath for it.”
This synergy was the foundation of the shoot. The models, each with distinct yet harmonizing features, exemplified the theme of connection. From hair to makeup to fashion, the looks intertwined two unique identities, proving that sisterhood isn’t just about similarity—it’s about balance and shared energy.
A Set Built on Love and Playfulness
More than just a production, the set was an environment of pure admiration and creative freedom. "We noted how free everything felt," Abby recalled. “That level of play is critical for a creative’s heart, especially one that experiences hardship. The uplifting community we created was the most important part. Please, never lose your inner child and sense of play to the world. Flow as if you are walking art—because you are.”
With an R&B playlist setting the vibe, the energy on set was both peaceful and electric. The team transformed the studio with 20 canvas drop cloths, creating a textured backdrop that symbolized the complexity and beauty of the themes they were exploring. "It wasn’t meant to be cleanly perfect, but messy and beautiful—just like the conversations this project covers."
Capturing the Essence of Black Hair
Lighting was a key factor in highlighting the models’ hair, with backlights creating a striking emphasis on structure and movement. The camera was tethered to a computer, allowing the team to see the shots in real-time—moments that led to "the loudest squeals and biggest smiles."
But the biggest challenge? Pushing creative comfort zones. "Each member of the team stepped into new spaces with their work," Abby reflected. And in doing so, they captured more than just stunning visuals—they created a lasting impact.
The resulting images showcase the models draped in flowing fabrics, their natural hair illuminated in soft yet powerful lighting. In one striking shot, Sami and Jasmine stand intertwined, their arms and textured curls blending effortlessly against the abstract backdrop, embodying the visual representation of unity and sisterhood. Another image highlights the movement of their hair, frozen mid-air as if caught in a moment of liberation.
A Reflection on Sisterhood
For the creative team, this project wasn’t just about representation in front of the lens but behind it as well. “I think sisterhood has been the most healing experience, especially for my inner child. Finding authentic, loving women to connect with is one of the most empowering experiences in life,” Abby shared.
With a primarily female media and styling team, the shoot also added to the conversation about how femininity is captured in beauty and fashion. "These photos bring representation not only through the models and visuals but deeply through the identities and lives of the team.”
In a world that often tries to confine beauty and identity to a narrow frame, this project served as a bold reminder: Black hair is art. Sisterhood is strength. And when creatives come together with a shared purpose, the result is nothing short of magic.
Team Credits
Creative Directors: (Abby) @abby.leephoto, (Jessi) @jesssi.jpg
Photographers: @abby.leephoto, @jesssi.jpg
Videographer: (Antonio) @uriecinematic
Production Assistant: (Sabrina) @sightofsabrina
Hair Stylists: (Tangie) @tangierennaexp, (Dajour) @iamdajourartis
Makeup Artist: (Britknee) @britknee_nichelle_artistry
Muses: (Jasmine) @jasmine.nicole, (Sami) @samispoke
Dress Designer: (Essence) @essencenyrie
Earring Designer: (Llorel) @l.essentials
Studio: @3tv.studio
