Meet L’Oreal Blanks

Today we’d like to introduce you to L’Oreal Blanks. 

L’Oreal, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always seen the world as a kaleidoscope. An infinite wheel of color and beauty. As long as I can remember I’ve always had a camera in my hand. From a Pentax to a Polaroid, as a child, I was always trying to capture anything I could. Flowers one week, clouds the next, my mom baking in the kitchen, or even my neighbor’s German Shepard. Before I committed to life behind the camera, I often found myself in front of the camera. I modeled with Travis Winkey and Company in Baltimore, MD. He was and still is fabulous! Being a child model, I was always on set. There were lights and cameras everywhere. Most models enjoyed the spotlight and glam. I enjoyed watching the photographers, the flashing lights, upbeat music, and all the colors and fabrics from the clothing. I was like a kid in a candy store. During this time, I realized all people are not the same when it comes to being in front of the camera. Everyone is unique and has something different to offer. Travis Winkey taught me there are hundreds of ways to smile and I thank him for that. I would be remised if I didn’t mention the late great, Andrea Travis and Flair Studios. She taught me etiquette, elegance, and grace. I credit my calm demeanor to her for those lessons. I feel my modeling experience was the final gateway to my photography career. After high school, I attended Villa Julie College where I pursued my bachelor’s degree in Visual Communications Design. I spent countless hours in the darkroom and loved every moment of it. I often lost track of time, but I was discovering my true passion. After graduation in 2008, I started out in corporate America. For a while, things were great, but I felt a higher calling. I wasn’t quite satisfied, but I was comfortable. I knew in order to be satisfied I had to make a move into entrepreneurship. I credit my entrepreneurial spirit to my father, who has been a staple in the Baltimore community for over 35 years. He is the owner of Blanks Hair Care Center in Gwynn Oak, MD. In 2016 I made the move and opened Studio L at The Gallery. My comfort turned into satisfaction… I did it! 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As a young and new photographer on the scene, one of my first challenges was finding myself worth and financial worth. My very first professional photoshoot was a family of 5. I remember not knowing exactly what a recent college grad should charge, so excited that I had some interest I spewed out the first number that seemed reasonable. Let’s just say it was an extremely low price. The wife, whom I was in contact with paused for a moment and I thought maybe I went a little too high as far as the price I quoted. After an awkward few seconds, which seemed like an eternity she agreed to the photo session. Fast-forwarding a few weeks later, it was the day of the photoshoot. Once the family arrived, I was pulled to the side and asked if it was ok to just receive half of the payment. At that moment I was taken aback because half of the payment was just $40.00. I looked at this gorgeous family and something inside me still wanted to give them my best service. During the photo session, I noticed the wife kept watching me like a hawk. I tried to get a read on what she was thinking, but my focus was on the photoshoot. After we wrapped up the session, the woman came over and grabbed my hand. She complimented me on so many things. From my attention to detail, my patience with her children, and my ability to bond with her family. She said, “L’Oreal, I can’t stand here and give you what we initially agreed on”. To my surprise, she tripled the initial price I quoted. At that moment she taught me a valuable lesson and I realized my talent and worth. The day I delivered the photos, she cried. She shared some personal details with me about her family and revealed how the photographs made everything right at that moment. Again, I learned another lesson. Photography is bigger than myself and holds so much power. Taking moments of joy and preserving them forever is literally what I was doing. I realized that one day her children will inherit those photos, and so will their children. Even after I leave this earth, someone will always have those precious memories. This challenge I faced opened up my eyes in so many ways. At that moment I knew I had the best job in the world. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in portrait and lifestyle photography. I’m known for photographing families, life milestones, corporate headshots, and events. Over the years I have come in contact with thousands of people and I absolutely love it. I’m not just out here pressing a button and sending clients on their way. During our sessions, we really talk and get to know each other. Sometimes it’s even hard to say goodbye after a session is over. My ability to make clients comfortable sets me apart. When your client is comfortable and relaxed, they’ll take great photos. I encourage everyone to be themselves and no detail is overlooked. From the type of music you like to your favorite beverage, I’ll have it all. 

Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I always say, “What’s life without risks”. I’m definitely a risk-taker, but there’s a method to my madness. We all have ideas, some much scarier than others. I take those scary risks and group them in their own category. I began to do research and calculate when the best time would be for me to take the risk. I’m not just diving in nose first, but I will eventually take the risk when I feel the time is right. I believe in living without regrets and sometimes those risks will put you exactly where you are meant to be. So, if you’re not sure about risks, weigh your options, do the research and then go for it. If you’re really passionate about that risk, great things will come. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Thestudiolgallery.com
• Instagram: thestudiolgallery
• Facebook: Studio L at The Gallery