We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin LeMond and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk taking is important to me in terms of how I choose to take shots. It was a risk in itself to choose shooting on film. Having to wait for results and not being able to see what you just shot puts pressure on what you’re choosing to capture in that moment. But it’s a good pressure because pressure makes diamonds.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think what sets me apart is my composition. I don’t look for the perfect shot, in fact my photography style celebrates imperfections and happenstance. I got to where I am by just snapping what I thought was beautiful, trusting that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It wasn’t always easy because there weren’t always supporters and it felt like I was the only one that liked my art but over time the appreciation grew. I learned that as long as you love you and your art it will reflect back in the world. I’d like everyone to know that I value abstract over perfection even if the abstract looks like perfection.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d take that person on an errands run around Brooklyn so they could really see the towns. All the side streets and corners that real New Yorkers frequent. Explain the history of some neighborhoods before gentrification fully set in. Around sunset, I’d take them to some of my favorite scenic parts, like Floyd Bennett Field for the concrete beach, or the Promenade downtown to watch the sunset over lower manhattan. Or out to Astoria to show that even a train station could grant you beautiful views of the city. At night we’d paint the town red in the various bars and lounges in LES. Then cap off the night at a food truck or a pizzeria that’s open real late.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The models and friends who allow me to shoot them. Without worthy subjects I wouldn’t be able to create the art I like. @jendayizarita
@s.stephanye
@henesykim
@amberkaylab

Website: https://vsco.co/justin-hakeem

Instagram: https://Justin.hvkeem

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