Ready, Set, Style w/ Imani Modus
LL: Imani! Tell us about yourself, who you are, and what you do!
Hi! To sum it up, I take beautiful product shots and stare at pretty things most days, haha. I'm the owner and creative director of Imani Modus. We offer colorful product photography, prop styling, and set design services for varying clients. Aside from creating mini (and sometimes big) setups for products, I'm a nail-lover and co-founder of @BlkGirlNailfies. BGNF is a community that highlights Black women and celebrates our creative nail choices.
LL: We’ve seen some of your beautiful installations and projects on the gram but who is your ideal client?!
As my art tends to be whimsical, I'd say clients that love color and quirkiness would be ideal. However, I enjoy working on the more minimalistic setups as well. Let's say I offer range.
LL: Who has inspired you most on your life journey?
My mom and grandmother, as they cultivated my creative eye and love for aesthetics. They both keep beautiful homes and love fashion and interior decor. Watching them over the years taught me that inspiration is everywhere, and you can create whatever you dream. I incorporate these lessons daily.
LL: How and where do you find inspiration when creating content?
I'm inspired by almost anything, and I've trained my eyes to see everything as a prop. This has helped shape the way I envision my projects. I find inspiration in movies, books (I love coffee table books), fashion, interior decor, and the media.
LL: What inspired you to become a product stylist and photographer?
My love for colors, aesthetics, and beauty products! As mentioned earlier, I love coffee table books – the bright colors, textures, layouts, etc. I enjoyed looking at the beautiful product shots and wondered what I could create thus Imani Modus was born.
LL: We know that you are disrupting the scene; what has been the best shoot + client you have worked with?
I enjoy all of my projects, but two favorites are Habituwell (releasing soon) and Signature Perfume by Pretty Vee's commercial shoot.
LL: MENTAL HEALTH: How do you stay focused in a world full of distractions?
I don't rush my journey, which keeps me focused. I'm moving at a steady pace that I'm comfortable with, and it's been working. I also strive to be better in whatever I do. The desire to be better eliminates any other distractions because I'm focused on myself.
LL: What advice would you give to brands looking to elevate their brand image?
First: eye-catching packaging is essential. I'd always recommend hiring a brand designer/ design agency in the beginning stages of your business to help develop your brand's labels, boxes, bottles, etc. One of my favorites is @CultCreativeAgency_. Second: once you have your beautiful packaging, hire a professional product photographer to capture images that'll speak to your ideal client.
LL: What are you looking forward to most in the near future?
More personal projects! I enjoy these the most as I have complete creative control. I have a ton that I'm dreaming up; stay tuned!