Conversations with Eboni Key

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eboni Key. 

Hi Eboni, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
Born and raised in sunny Southern California from a small town called Tustin. I grew up definitely knowing as a kid, I was different and thrived in creative spaces. It started at neighbor’s birthday parties by inviting myself, stealing the show, and dancing to Cumbia, to ballet and tap dance classes, acting, and musical theatre. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I started to experiment with photography for my personal content and grew a small interest. My boyfriend- who is now my husband, encouraged me to learn more and really felt I had an eye as they say. He soon started a videography business called KEYMedia Studio and voiced that it would be a dream to partner and that I offer photography services. When the pandemic happened, we had had an opportunity to do a zoom call with members of his family and I had learned that there was a lot of prestigious relatives that had accomplished great successes. It was at that moment that I realized I wanted to be a part of the path that they had paved for excellence. Once we got Married, I vowed to continue to create and started to learn more about the craft of portrait photography. In June 2021 I chose to make it a full-time commitment and have no plans to look back. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a business during a pandemic has probably been one of the craziest decisions I’ve ever made. I think when you are aiming for the stars it’s never going to be an easy path. I knew that going into this as a new photographer and business owner. However, I have so much gratitude for anyone who has hired me and trusted my creative direction. There are a lot of people who believe in me and love that I do things a little different in the attempt to think outside the box and produce work that always exceeds my clients’ expectations. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I primarily conceptualize boudoir photography in addition to portraits. When it comes to boudoir, it’s very personal and intimate and I aim to make it an experience that women will never forget. Outside of just booking a studio, putting on some lingerie, and pressing a button on the camera, I make it a point to really get to know my clients and their “why”. I understand that it is not easy to be vulnerable in front of a stranger, let alone a camera. I’m known for challenging my clients to see themselves in a light that they deserve to appreciate. When they give me inspiration for a shoot, I usually present a mood-board and ideas that they feel may not be achievable. It’s a reminder that anything is possible all while loving and celebrating themselves. If we’re going to bring your idea to life, we’re going to go big! I’m most proud of the moments when women see these beautiful pictures of themselves and say that their lives have changed. Those are comments and reviews I never expected to receive from photography and I quickly realized that creating these creative spaces for women was bigger than me and this career as a photographer. The same attention to detail and passion goes into my portrait photography. My main goal is always to give people images of themselves that make them feel confident, proud, empowered, & capture their realness. 

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My Husband Renaldo is a huge part of my successes and willingness to always think bigger. For a long time, I felt stuck and continued to find things that I felt I had to do, rather than commit to things I wanted to do. Life gets in the way of our dreams and sacrifices easily become comfort. Renaldo made my realize that I do have a purpose to create and be an integral part of us growing as a business. He taught me everything I know about photography and it has been an outlet that has completely changed my life. I also give thanks to all of my family and friends that have supported me and pushed me to keep growing, learning, and creating. 

Contact Info:

• Email: ebonik@keymediallc.com
• Website: https://keymediallc.com

Image Credits
KeyMedia Studio
Eboni Key Photos