Famed celebrity photographer, Derek Blanks, held a release party last Friday night @ 595 North. No, he’s not releasing an album of music. But in fact, he’s launching his new website which houses his “album” of exquisite photographs of high profile clients like Monica, Jennifer Hudson, LisaRaye, Eva Pigford, and many other celebrities, models, and even non-celebrity clients.

The evening went without a hitch with free hors d’oeuvres flowing throughout the night. The event lured in industry folks and everyday supporters of Derek’s work. There were special invited guests (forgive us for not knowing them all), including Mrs. Linnethia “Ne Ne” Leakes of Real Housewives of Atlanta. This diva surely knows how to work a room. She brought along her husband Greg (who is as cool and calm as he is on tv). America’s Next Top Model – Cycle 10, Dominique, was in attendance as well.

Derek Blanks and Ne Ne Leakes
Ne Ne Leakes
Dominique
J. Michelle (Co-Publisher/STACKS Mag) and Derek Blanks


Of course, we couldn’t end our night without getting what we came for…an exclusive interview with Derek Blanks. So we got the chance to chat it up with Derek [unfortunately in the only “half-way” quiet place in the venue…the bathroom] and learned a lot in just a few minutes. Check out the full interview below for Derek’s responses on developing concepts for his pictures, his rates, and advice to the young up-n-coming photographers!
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Se0vHgtB_eU&hl=]

As you heard, he does offer photo shoots to our everyday people for as little as $175. So contact him today to schedule your shoot at http://dblanks.com/.

Special thanks to Derek, his assistant Darien, and our photographer Alicia Lavender for the pics!