Photographer Connie McGowan knows the power of having a strong network. After transitioning into creative and event photography full-time after years as a nurse, Connie knew that she needed a project that showcased her skills as a creative.
“Men are rarely photographed. They usually hate taking pictures and I wanted to change that. I wanted them to relax from their hard work as providers, showcase their personal style and have some fun!” McGowan says. Thus, the “Classic Men of Richmond” shoot was born.
McGowan put out the call for models via social media. “To identify the men, I posted a promo flier on Facebook in January and then again in June and July. I wanted men of different ages, races, backgrounds, career fields, etc.” She did her homework, researching her potential models and making sure that they fulfilled her vision of the quintessential ‘Classic Man’. McGowan says, “My definition of a classic man has nothing to do with clothes. It has to do with my top 7 non-negotiables: INTEGRITY, confidence, chivalry, humility, creativity, spontaneity and definitely a sense of humor. Without those attributes at the end of the day all you have are thread and useless fabrics.”
My father is absolutely one of Richmond’s most classic men. Meet the rest of the “Classic Men of RVA”.
Beautiful pictures and handsome men. I like that they were representative of different age groups and races.
I love this post! Those pictures made me proud to be black!!
Love this! Handsome men. This needs to be a series from different states. Really need a movement, I still see folks with their underwear showing smh.
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Hahaha Holly, it’s a shame isn’t it? 50 States of Fly… How’s that for a name?
Love the concept! There’s nothing like a well dressed man.
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Yes, I was so thrilled when I saw these photos, LaVonndra. They all look so fly.
Beautiful photo shoot! I love seeing men of color looking suave!
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Yes, these are the types of images I wish we saw more often!
What a great idea! Beautiful photos, I love seeing men all dressed up!
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I loved it too, Kasi! It’s a beautiful thing, isn’t it?
Love this, I featured some young brothers on my blog doing the same thing. There is nothing like a man dressed in his Sunday best.
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Aren’t they fly? I’m going to check out your post, Mimi!
Good to see this positivity in celebrating men. Wonderful photos.
What an awesome project. A nice way to showcase men in a positive light.
Nice! I’m in Norfolk, VA so its nice to see something like this so close to home. Very cool shoot – I can see my dad doing this also 🙂
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Jonna, I feel like your parents and mine would get along!
These men look very handsome & dapper. I’m loving the classic man movement & the principals you used to define them.
This made my day…LOVE! The classic man movement is awesome!