Shaun Ollison: An Inverview from Iconic African Fashion Photographer, Mario Epanya

When it comes to black beauty, past, present, or future, Mario Epanya is Scholar!
This Cameroonian born, Parisian based- MUA turned hair stylist is now at the forefront of luxury black beauty and style by way of photography! Mario is a TRUE artist and continues to work every angle of his shoots. He is not the type of photographer that predetermines his shots; stages the model captures it then moves on. No, not at all! Rather he allows the Model to join him in collaboration while focusing on every area of the styling: the hair, the skin, the eyes, the clothes, the woman.

The love and appreciation that he clearly holds for women is displayed boldly in all that he creates. His photos unapologetically displays this. I have been blessed to work with Mr. Mario on a recent beauty campaign. This is where I got to witness first hand why he is currently called “France’s hottest young photographer.”Mario is fun, free, and relaxed and yet still, disciplined and time conscious. Trust me, this is not so common in Paris’ fashion/beauty industry.

Recently, I caught up with Mario and asked him a few question regarding his passion, work, and this is what he had to say:

Describe todays fashion in your eyes. 
Today’s fashion is nonsense. I personally think that what every designer is doing is following the trends ; also nonsense! It’s all about style because fashion fades but style is eternal.

Where do you find your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from Africa: its beauty, women, men and nature.

What is the direction of your photography?
The direction of my photography is (that) I must have a sense of sharing my culture with others while also showing another face of Africa.

What is your muse?
My muse is the Black Woman

In one word please describe your style?
Eternal…

I agree. Mario has a the talent of balancing an embrace of the past, embodying the depth and boldness of the late 70’s and early 80’s, vintage fashion photography in previous shoots. He then uses his unique style and love for Africa and female expression to create something very new and fresh for today’s fashion media and beauty landscape since both Africa and women are eternal.

For more information on Mario Epanya  visit HERE!

AUTHOR: Shaun Ollison

I am your American sister, living in Paris and working throughout Europe, Africa, and the US. My job is to report fashion, culture, and lifestyle abroad. And I am MOST excited to do so! But before we start, allow me to introduce myself and share a bit of my story with you.

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