Let's Talk: Mario Epanya

Cameroonian photographer and artist Mario Epanya has been on my radar since last year with his amazing collection of photographs. Epanya moved to Paris a decade ago and slowly built his skills and reputation first as a make-up artist and more recently as a beauty photographer. As you can see, his work is stunning so you can imagine how excited I was when he agreed to take part in this interview series!!

What are the first five words that come to mind when you think about Africa?

Freedom, sun, crow, laughter, children.

What is one of your favorite memories from time spent in Africa or around other Africans abroad?

My childhood in Cameroon, of course.

If you could go to one place on the continent right now, where would it be and why?

Back to Sénégal by the sea. I have nice memories of when I was there 4 years ago. The people were happy and come naturally to you and talk to you...

When you are not taking stunning pictures, what else do you like to do?

Well I draw or paint , listen to music, say some prayers and thank God for all these blessings. Do a lot of retouching and preparing projects around beauty...
Where is your favorite hang out spot?

My house in the countryside, outside of Paris....

What is your favorite musician or song right now?

Luther Vandross

Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?

Africa and music are my principal inspirations

What has been your proudest achievement?

Becoming an engaged beauty photographer and showing through my work that beauty is diverse.

What is the best lesson you've learned so far?

If you know where you come from, then you know where you're going ....

What dream do you still want to fulfill?

To create a great African, worldwide fashion and art magazine.

As you can see from the last image - Epanya already has a clear vision of his dream. I remember when I first came across one of these images of Vogue Africa and got goosebumps all over with excitement! While it's too bad that Conde Nast has yet to jump on this brilliant idea (yes, Mr. Nast - I would buy such a magazine!), I'm glad that there are amazing photographers like Epanya with such a vision. Until then you can check out Epanya's site for more beauty in all it's diversity!

{Thank you so much Mario}

{Photos: Mario Epanya + Business de la Mode}