Nolan Baynes: Capturing Stories of Success Through the Camera Lens
Nolan Baynes II, a Junior Marketing Major from West Orange, New Jersey, is carving a distinct path in the world of photography and videography. Raised in a culturally rich environment—born in Brooklyn, with roots stretching to Guyana and New Orleans—Nolan's upbringing has deeply influenced his creative vision and approach to storytelling through visuals.
Nolan's journey into photography began unexpectedly at the age of 15 or 16 when he discovered a unique perspective on the world around him. Initially starting with a disposable camera from CVS, Nolan's interest quickly evolved as he began capturing sports videos and edits before the pandemic reshaped his artistic focus. Setting up a photoshoot for Nolan is a dynamic process fueled by inspiration from everyday life at Howard University. Surrounded by a diverse community where every encounter and cultural exchange sparks creativity, Nolan integrates his friends and the vibrant campus environment into his shoots, creating visual narratives that resonate with authenticity and depth.
“Not being so scared of yourself and trying new things is really important, especially when it comes to art and creativity, because it’s important to you.”
—- Nolan Baynes II
Inspiration for Nolan stems primarily from his parents, his father, an artist, and his mother, whose logistical mindset complements his creative approach. Their influence not only nurtured his artistic talents but also instilled a balanced perspective crucial to his growth as a photographer. Photography holds a profound meaning for Nolan beyond its technical aspects; it serves as a powerful outlet for expression and identity. Through his lens, Nolan has found a voice that transcends conventional narratives, particularly for young Black men seeking avenues for personal expression and reflection.
“My favorite type of photography is taking portraits. In my senior year of high school, I took a photo of one of my friends in the woods, on a bike. We started with an album cover. The photo got critiqued, people were like ‘whoa, this is amazing.’ I blended environmental photography with portraiture. And I think in itself, that was something important to me.”
“Think about what’s special around you. Drew is special to Howard. The Caribbean Tree is something special to Howard. All of these things around us have meaning.”
Looking ahead, Nolan envisions a future where his photography transcends commercial success to impact cultural discourse and museum exhibitions. His advice to aspiring creatives emphasizes courage in exploration and the importance of embracing one's creative journey fully. Reflecting on his own path, Nolan encourages his past self and others to seek guidance from those who share their artistic vision and to prioritize self-care amidst creative pursuits. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring impact of storytelling through photography. As he continues to evolve, Nolan Baynes II remains dedicated to capturing the essence of moments and cultures through his distinctive lens.
By Nolan Baynes II
By Nolan Baynes II