Reonell Gloria ‘TheBrownChild’
Reonell Gloria known as TheBrownChild, 33, born and raised in Antioch, is an emerging event and artist photographer. Reonell began his photography journey in 2022, specializing in live music, events, cars, and various other subjects. His experiences have sparked an interest in graphic design, tech packs, DJing, and music creation.
Photography has become a powerful medium for Reonell, enabling him to explore and express his passion in unique ways. He has had the opportunity to shoot for several renowned artists and events, including Kehlani, Noodles, Sol Blume and THIS916. Reonell aspires to elevate the recognition of photographers and videographers as creatives, continually seeking new opportunities and experiences to further his artistic journey.
QUESTIONNAIRE:
How did your love for photography ignite? What captivated you about it?
R: My love for photography ignited through a combination of personal and creative experiences. Initially, I was exposed to photography through friends, but the high cost of equipment made it seem out of reach. My interest truly began when I was deeply involved in the car scene and wanted to capture the essence of my modified car. Another pivotal moment was when my aunt was diagnosed with cancer, making me realize how few memories I had documented with my family and my life in general. I bought my first camera and started experimenting within the car scene.
Photography became a new medium of creativity for me, allowing me to explore and express my passion in unique ways. What made photography even more captivating was how it put me in positions to talk to other people and network. It opened up opportunities to connect with others, share experiences, and build relationships, which enriched both my personal and professional life.
Do you pursue photography full-time, or do you balance it with other endeavors? If so, what else do you pursue?
R: I currently pursue photography full-time. I recently lost my 9 to 5 job—(I was replaced by AI), *joking—but honestly, it’s refreshing to focus entirely on my passion. I haven’t been actively seeking gigs or bookings because people usually reach out to me after seeing my work on social media.
Besides photography, I also engage in graphic design work for several nightclubs and bars and also helping companies with branding solutions and identities. Additionally, I’m very fluent in the fashion industry, creating tech packs, apparel, and merchandise. I also help run an e-commerce agency called Mavecca.
I used to pursue music and being a DJ, and I really want to get back to that. However, lately I’ve been getting so much positive feedback as a photographer that this is the journey I’m on. I love being in the music field, and that’s why I continue to engage in related work. Balancing these diverse pursuits allows me to stay creative and continuously explore new opportunities.
How did you uncover your unique style in photography?
R: I uncovered my unique style just by being in the field and doing. My past experience as a DJ and my involvement in music festivals and events have significantly influenced my photographic style. I feel like I understand how an artist wants to be portrayed. Facial expressions, body language, and the surrounding energy all play a crucial role in a still image. We only have one shot to tell the story, and it has to make an impact.
It also depends on the type of photography I’m doing, but I know my color science and grading of photos is on point. This understanding and technical proficiency have shaped my approach to capturing moments that truly resonate with the viewer.
What types of things or events do you most enjoy capturing through your lens?
R: I enjoy capturing candid photos a lot. There’s something about raw and natural moments that hits differently, providing a sense of genuineness. I love being a personal photographer for celebrities or bigger artists—definitely not in a TMZ style! Music festivals are a big passion of mine as well. When it comes to personal portraits, I strive to bring more narrative to reality and showcase how genuine someone truly is.
How do you secure specific photography opportunities? Any advice for obtaining photo passes?
R: If I really want to do something, I’ll directly reach out, but lately that hasn’t been the case. I’ve been reached out to for about 90% of my gigs now, which is wild to think about. For artists, I usually send DMs. There’s nothing like a real ALL ACCESS gig, where you don’t have to leave the pit after three songs or you’re the only photographer on stage.
Advice for obtaining photo passes:
1. Treat your community and city well: How you interact with your community speaks volumes. Word spreads fast, so always do your best work.
2. Saturate your work on social media: Make sure your work is visible and accessible on social media platforms.
3. Do a variety of niche shoots: Diversifying your portfolio can open up more opportunities.
4. Reach out and network: Building relationships is crucial. Don’t hesitate to connect with others in the industry.
5. Don’t expect to get paid on the first gig: Consider if the value of the relationship will provide future opportunities for both parties. Sometimes, the potential for future work is worth more than immediate payment.
What hurdles or difficulties have you encountered on your journey as a photographer?
R: I’ve encountered several hurdles on my journey as a photographer. Lots of self-doubt has been a constant challenge. Not seeing initial profit was discouraging at times, and learning how to run a business on my own added another layer of difficulty. Additionally, finding ways to stay inspired and continuously push the envelope in my industry has been an ongoing effort.
One particular memory that stands out was shooting a bigger music event in the Bay Area. Despite having an all-access artist pass, another photographer agency member tried to prevent me from shooting or going backstage just because I wasn’t part of a big agency and was shooting on my own. She talked me down like I was nobody or insignificant to the event, which wasn’t the case at all. That experience really got to me mentally that night. Each of these challenges has shaped my growth and resilience as a photographer.
What equipment are you currently utilizing for your photography?
R: A lot. I try to keep it lighter depending on the event or how intensive the shoot will be.
My lighter-end setup consists of:
Sony A7RV
Sigma 16 - 28mm
Tamron 28 - 75mm
Tamron 70 -180mm
Godox V1 Flash w/ Magmod
*sometimes 11mm Manual Fisheye Lens
What tips do you have for beginners starting in your profession?
R: Do things for free. Go out and shoot when you have time. Reach out for opportunities. Do your best and be the best person you can be.
Best memorable memory of your career?
R: Shooting for Kehlani on one of her tour shows and shooting for Dom Dolla for THIS916. There has been a lot of good memories, I'm ready for more!
What insights can you share from your tenure in the music industry? Specifically, could you highlight one aspect you cherish and another that you aspire to improve?
R: From my tenure in the music industry, one aspect I truly cherish is the incredible energy and connection I experience at live events. Being able to capture the raw emotions of both the artists and the audience is a unique privilege. There’s a certain magic in freezing those fleeting moments, and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that my work helps preserve the essence of these performances for both the artists and their fans. I know because I've came from both sides of the stage. As a spectator and as an artist.
One area I aspire to improve is the value placed on photographers and videographers as creatives. There seems to be a loss of value, yet we are the ones in control of the narrative of what people see before and after an event. By advocating for and demonstrating the importance of our work, I aim to elevate the recognition and appreciation for the crucial role we play in the industry.
Book Reo ‘BrownChild’ by checking out his portfolio on his website or following his journey on Instagram!
Reonell has acknowledged that her spotlight is dedicated to the greater good and commitment to the music community. Being selected, she wholeheartedly agrees to infuse positivity, passion, and innovative methods to foster stronger connections within the music industry.
