Moments - (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Moments pays homage to the extraordinary models of color who have not only graced the covers of magazines but have also left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Supermodels Beverly Peele and Veronica Webb, along with Mounia, the trailblazer who shattered barriers on the runways of Chanel, Givenchy, and Yves Saint Laurent, stand as pillars of strength and beauty. Alva Chinn, muse of designer Roy Halston and participant in the historic Battle of Versailles, symbolizes resilience and sophistication. Peggy Dillard Toone, the second black model to grace the cover of American Vogue, represents a beacon of change and progress. Cynthia Bailey, known for her role on "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," embodies empowerment and self-assurance.

Moments celebrates the extraordinary models of color whose influence has profoundly shaped James Hicks's journey as a photographer. Although he has photographed a "who's who" in the music world, the models of color from the 1970s to the 2000s have been the true inspirations behind his lens.

Featuring over 200 captivating black and white images of more than 70 models, both male and female, showcasing the beauty, resilience, and diversity of these models and ensuring their legacies endure for generations to come, Moments is not just a tribute but a celebration of the profound impact these models of color have had on the world of fashion and photography.

Review Quotes

"James Hicks' passion for photography was evident when we first met in the 90's. Having been in the business for two decades, it was a gift to be a part of his vision. His energy and drive was that of creativity and presence which are essentials to the connectivity that make moments capturing life's beauty and vitality possible. His desire to honor the variations in people of color whatever their hue, age or size is a testament to the love, care and respect he shares for all who participate in bringing the photo to life." - Alva Chinn, American fashion model

About the Author

James Hicks was born in Annapolis, Maryland, and raised in Washington, DC. He attended Theodore Roosevelt Senior High School and went on to earn a BA in Medical Illustration at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. James took his first photography course during his matriculation at Morehouse and that is where his passion for photography began. Upon completion of his studies at Morehouse College, James returned to Washington, DC and began assisting photographers. He very soon branched off on his own and began his freelance photography career. James was very interested in fashion and beauty and was able to secure a position as a frequent contributor to the fashion pages of the Baltimore Sun. As his editorial career began to flourish, he was also able to photograph fashion advertising for a local department store, as well as national ads for a large clothing company. James decided it was time to explore other markets, so he began to travel to Miami, Paris, and New York. It was New York that captured his heart. Soon after relocating to New York, he began shooting fashion & beauty editorials for several different publications which eventually led him to photographing celebrities. He has worked with numerous icons and legends such as Smokey Robinson, Pam Grier, The Sister Sledge, the late Aaliyah, as well as notable entertainers such as Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu, Usher, Lynn Whitfield, Rosario Dawson, Deborah Cox, and Kandi Burress.