I enjoy working on commercial assignments when the client has a great concept to promote their business. In this case, the client was also the subject of the series. I was asked to take a number of pictures of a female business owner who came up with a unique idea to promote a chain of tanning salons. The concept was that there would be Martini’s available to customers who used the salons services while they were tanning their bodies, creating a “happy hour” type atmosphere when clients stepped into the salon. The client cast as subject worked out magnificently in this case.
As part of the assignment I was asked to make large scale prints from the pictures we produced to decorate the salon. She certainly was masterful and successful in promoting her business.
If you google, “How many islands are in the Philippines?”, the answer would be 7,640 islands. In one of those many thousand islands, there is one called Cebu, the place I was born. While many in the United States had the luxury of being born in the hospital, I was born on a bamboo bed at home. I spent my first five years in the Philippines. My family had an opportunity to move to America as my grandmother became an Engineer for Septa. My mother was one of nine siblings, seven girls and two boys. I grew up with many women who were very hardworking and very passionate. I guess you can say, that’s where I get my drive from, it runs in my blood.
Growing up in America was interesting. I do not think many individuals from other countries realize how much blood, sweat, and tears go into living in “The Land of the Free”. One thing I can say is, that America has given me so many opportunities that I never dreamt. I graduated high school in Edinburg, Texas then moved back to Philadelphia and graduated college at Temple University. It was there where I received my degree In Health Information Management and worked hard to become a Subject Matter Expert for a health software company. While beginning my new career after graduation, I started modeling. Many doors opened for me by just going outside of my comfort zone. I was featured in music videos on BET Jams and Music Choice, walked in New York Fashion Week multiple times, was published in multiple magazines and featured on clothing websites. I also became a radio host for a local internet radio station. I eventually opened two photography studios in Pennsylvania and Ohio after starting my photography journey again. And when I thought about quitting it all, opportunities came knocking on my door. I dipped my feet into some background acting for major films and shows like Netflix’s Hustle with Adam Sandler and NBC’s Bel Air. I would say I was blessed but many of my achievements came from facing my fears, working hard and taking chances. I am proud of who I have become and will constantly try to be the best version of myself day in and day out.
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About The Author: Riza Oliva is a professional photographer, actress, model, business owner and mom based in Philadelphia. To read contributing writer Katie Kerl’s interview with Riza Oliva, click here: https://tonyward.com/interview-riza-oliva/
Portrait of Ade Jaiye by Tony Ward, Copyright 2021
Text by Ade Jaiye, Copyright 2021
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Flawless
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I am spirit, hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, sharing in this physical experience. so much we have the ability to bring to life with mere vision. but one thing I am well aware of, is that I am not here to stay…
I am here for the human experience. the freeze frame. the nostalgia. the fluidity. the capture. the expression. the mood. the vibes. the play. the emotion. the vulnerability. the applause. the yes. the no. the thought. the action. the submission. the uncertainty. the dominance. the release. the inspiration. the void. the challenge. the controversy. the revelation. the growth. the evolution. the transformation. the refuge. the truth. the light. the darkness. the possibilities. the mere chance. the love.
For those of us who challenge the voices in our heads on the daily…this one’s for you. You are not the voices in your head. And they are not all your friend. remember, you run this. no matter how big or small your life may seem, You run this. You’re the director of your lifetime series. And this lifetime is not a dress rehearsal. Armor your self with what strengthens and enlivens you. be unapologetic about what makes you, You. embrace yourself, flaws and all. Turns out, what we think are our flaws are what ends up being our or someone else’s saving grace. Believe it or not, we’re in this physical thingy together… again, just breezing through. Pleasure to meet yous. First name’s, the crown (ADE), last name’s, to enjoy life (JAIYE).
Ade Jaiye xx
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About The Author: Ade Jaiye is a fashion model based in Philadelphia. She currently is the in house model for Joan Shepp, luxury clothing store. She frequently appears on QVC. This is Ade’s first contribution to Tony Ward Studio.
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