Respect the Shooter + Andre Gray
Words by Chindo
Interview held by Tiff
Andre Gray, who most know as Andre Uncut, is a Videographer/Photographer out of Brooklyn, New York. I've been seeing Andre's work on Instagram and was always attracted to the nostalgic vibes his photography and videography gave me. He's very fond of classic imagery and classic Hip-Hop and R&B music (do yourself a favor, and follow him on Instagram). Andre's photography is somewhat reminiscent of Jonathan Mannion's early work (personal opinion), in the sense that his photographs could be considered legendary one day, and for that I am a fan. Now, with all of that being said, we get to find about the man, from the man himself:
Name: Andre Uncut
Age: 22
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Creative Occupation: Videographer/Photographer
I follow you on the gram, and I really get a true 90’s vibe whenever I'm scrolling through. What's your ultimate goal of perception as a videographer/photographer?
I simply want people to be reminded that we as black people are great, especially when it comes to creativity. I feel as if no one puts that much effort into the process of visual art. Anything from the 20th Century was pure and original and it had your attention. I want my work to have the same effect on people just like how I felt watching all the great art from the past.
Most of your models are of African American descent. Is that by coincidence, or is that a value you purposely instill in your work? Why?
Haha, you got me on that one. I wouldn’t say I shoot everyone who’s of African American descent, but specifically individuals who have some kind of culture or source of spirituality. The vibe has to be right in order for me to shoot with someone, and I have to be able to relate to them in some way. But to answer the question I do work with certain people on purpose. It’s what I love to see. I’m not discriminative either, I just want to document everyone in a positive way and show my audience that there is beauty right in front of you; meaning right in front of that mirror. Many people do tell me that I should expand and shoot other races, but I’m good with where I’m at. I feel right at home.
Are there any projects you've recently worked on that you're most proud of?
Yes, a whole lot of projects! One in particular that I’ve been hiding is a photography project based on the relationship of a woman and their hair. I shot over 50 women of different ages and cultures. I’m planning to release it soon, but I’m trying to execute and present it the right way. Other than that, I’ve been proud of my editorial work with companies such as Opening Ceremony, ASOS, and Musings of Krav. Years ago I never thought that photography would take me so far to the point where I’m on official websites, sometimes careers just find you.
What current photographers/creatives are you following on the gram?
@sirshanemiller @mynameisblues @a_kid_named_trav @marcuslesliestudio
What are your goals for the near future?
As of now, I’m honestly working on an app that might take a few years, but in the meantime I would love to work with a few magazines such as Essence, Vibe or Ebony. Those exact magazines gave me the inspiration for what I’m doing with my work today, but they don’t give me that same feeling anymore. That’s why I want to bring them back to life. There are other things I’m interested in, but I feel as if life will guide me into a greater direction.
Are there any creatives you're looking forward to working with?
Recently an artist by the name of Seinabo Sey followed me, it would be an honor to work with her. However there are other names that I have yet to capture on the lens. Folasade Adeoso, Chantaille Elise, Cesar Boogotti, Amel Larrieux, Corinne Bailey Rae, Sade Adu and Erykah Badu. It’s so much great people to choose from, but in due time it will be done.
