Shades of Beauty

In diversity there is beauty and there is strength! If everything was black and white, would we still be viewed the same and uphold to different standards than someone that fits in the box that they are trying to place all of us in? Rather than becoming someone’s idea of perfection or meeting their standards, we should all strive to embrace everything that makes us unique such as our hair, skin complexion, body shape, height, and facial features. Most importantly, never let anyone tell you that you are not beautiful!

The Leina Faye Collection

Displayed from January 13, 2023 - March 24, 2023

201 Howell Ave, Brooksville, FL 34601

“I started modeling because of Tyra Banks’ America’s Next Top Model show. Me and my mom would literally always watch it together for years when I was like 8. I think my experience and journey with modeling have been a roller coaster in a way. I started up slow then I had like a rush of everything coming at once then I stopped due to personal problems, but I absolutely love my journey and I can’t wait to see what else I can do with it! I feel like my ethnicity kind of limits me, more so, my hair type if anything. I’ve noticed when I have braids in, I don’t get as much work as I would when I wear my natural hair out, but when I do have my natural hair out, none of the “hairstylists” know what to do with it which is kind of ridiculous in my opinion. I also tend to be the only black girl/token black person to make the campaigns or photoshoots look and feel “diverse.” Honestly my goal is just to be able to do this full time and not worry about where my next check is coming from. I would love to be on the runway of big brands like Gucci, Fendi, etc. The runway shows always have such big part in my dreams, as well as be on magazines and do editorial photoshoots.” – Leina Faye

My Experience

“Due to similar experiences, I stopped pursuing a modeling career in 2016 and started pursuing a career as a fashion photographer. I wanted to give aspiring models opportunities that were never given to me, at least not without coming at a high prize. My goal is to promote body positivity and a realistic vision of body image as well as showing diversity within my work. When I became a photographer, my sole purpose was to make a difference in the fashion and modeling industry. I want to be part of the change that I want to see in these industries and the world. When you view my work, you are viewing what beauty looks like through my eyes.” – Juan M. Caraballo