Meet Charlee Moss | Professional Photographer & Video Editor

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

Hi Charlee, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
My career has been shaped by a willingness to take risks, which I developed early in life due to my family’s frequent relocations. This daring spirit took root during middle school when I changed schools for new opportunities and forged meaningful connections. In college, I further embraced this approach by focusing on photography and video editing, seeking mentorship, and eventually transferring to a different institution for a more comprehensive education. Two years later, my commitment to growth and exploration paid off with a job offer in New York City, marking the pinnacle of my professional journey.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art endeavors to capture the essence of African-American communities spanning across the United States. During the summer of 2023, I embarked on a personal mission to document my experiences at various events in the heart of New York City. This included documenting the vibrant lives of Harlem’s children and the remarkable men and women who call New York their home.

Navigating the digital realm to establish my artistic presence has proven to be a challenging yet essential journey. It has necessitated introspection, compelling me to redefine the purpose behind my art. The fundamental question that consistently arises is whether I create for personal fulfillment or to cater to a broader audience. Whenever I felt I was creating solely for the allure of views and likes, I would momentarily step back from photography as a profession. During these hiatuses, I would reserve my camera for capturing intimate moments with family and friends, rediscovering the joy and beauty in the art form.

The central objective of my work remains unwavering: to cast a positive, non-stereotypical light upon my people. I aim to counter the negative portrayals that often pervade media by celebrating our innate beauty, our unique way of life, and our capacity for commemoration. Ultimately, my work seeks to unveil the soft and tender facets of our collective existence.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you find yourself in Raleigh, North Carolina, there are a few places I’d recommend. Start with a visit to the Morgan Street Food Hall, where they have good food and refreshing drinks. Just down the street, you’ll find Boxcar, an arcade space with games and drinks to keep you entertained. Lastly, For those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s nightlife, Glenwood Avenue is a good starting point.

In the bustling streets of New York City, I’d begin by taking you to the Chocolate Restaurant and Bar. Their soul food is top tier, which you can find in Harlem. Next, a trip to Dumbo offering breathtaking views of Manhattan, the river, and the serenity of lush greenery is all so relaxing. You’ll also discover a wide range of dining options, including food halls.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mother. She played an instrumental role in every major decision I’ve made. Her unwavering encouragement pushed me to take bold leaps, to reach for the skies, and to move forward without hesitation. Whether it involved globe-trotting, changing schools, relocating to new cities, or any other significant endeavor, she remained my primary source of unwavering inspiration and support. Furthermore, I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my immediate family, including my siblings, the significant father figures in my life, aunts, uncles, and grandparents, all of whom have played a pivotal role in helping me navigate life’s challenges and triumphs.
Next, I’d like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the friends I’ve encountered on this journey. Their unwavering emotional support, provision of opportunities, and physical assistance have been invaluable. These contributions have played an indispensable role in guiding me through the myriad life transitions I’ve experienced.
Lastly, I want to express my profound gratitude to my mentors in North Carolina and my managers in the corporate realm of New York City. Their decision to invest in me, belief in my abilities, and recognition of my untapped potential have been instrumental in my journey.

Website: www.mosscharlee.com

Instagram: @mosscharlee

Twitter: @themosscharlee

Image Credits
Photographer for ALL images: Charlee Moss