We’re looking forward to introducing you to Gabrielle Davis. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Gabrielle, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I’ve been blessed with so many bright moments in life lately, but one that strikes me first is my mother’s birthday. She came to my place of work to celebrate, and with the help of my manager and team I was able to make it very special for her. The entire time, I was overwhelmed with gratitude toward my team and family. And at the end of the night, as I headed into my nighttime routine, my dad gave me a wink and thumbs up. It was that small gesture from him about her night that made me realize it was truly a special memory- surrounded by love from two major parts of my life; for my mom, who has spent her entire life going above and beyond for me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name’s Gabrielle Davis, and I’m a young creative from St. Louis. I specialize in portrait photography and creative direction in both photoshoots and video production. I founded my freelance visual arts business in 2021, beginning with a birthday shiot for my cousin. Ever since my first client, the camera has taken me to places I never imagined I’d be growing up. I have always been drawn to the arts as a child, playing classical instruments and electing for art classes every chance I could. The passion to create and translate complex and conceptual narratives visually followed me to college, and it took off from there.
My photography studies led me to honing my intuition in the studio setting; before I became fluid with the camera, I often volunteered my hand at adjusting the lighting, grafting wires, experimenting with reflections and colored gels- the list goes on, and I offered that same experimental insight to my first clients, and continue to polish my techniques the more my audience changes. Lately, my call as a professional photographer meets a classic demand- the internet.
LinkedIn Headshots, Corporate photography, social media engagement, brand awareness- the backbone of one’s success in the rapid race to being seen on everyone’s screen first, is the photograph. It’s proof of existence. It’s a necessity in our world. And I happily answer this call, as a conduit of translation; one who makes the latter possible, is simply to tell the entire story without one word. It’s daunting, exciting, and challenging. It requires my capacity to produce as an artist to increase, and I’ve enjoyed the new wave of energy that brings. I’ve poured it into a few side projects this year, my editorial piece being my favorite and most published piece.
I named the piece FUMI FILES; My sister, Fumi, being the muse. She is one of my closest friends, and we have always connected naturally when it comes to artistic visions & interests, and fashion (See her artworks on Instagram @). I felt a desire to speak to my unlearning of old ways and challenging norms as a young creative, feeling like I’m at a critical point in my life, and also knowing I’ll never have this youthfulness again. I wanted to convey the feeling of being conflicted and indecisive, whilst doing whatever it takes to hold it together and perform at my best at all times. Hence, the high-end clothing and luxurious muse contrast with jarring lighting and strong colors.
It’s the sensation of emerging out of that metamorphosis that I’ve been focusing my endeavors on at present. I’ve allowed myself to be focused on one aspect of my work at a time at a pace I’ve never had the freedom to set for myself before. I’m open to new mediums and consistently drawn to fashion and editorial photography, and I look forward to sharing whatever that produces with the world soon.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I’ve always wrestled with the thought that real bonds break. I believe it’s us, the people, that break down over time. I don’t believe anyone wants to let go of the people we once loved, even if we’re willing to avoid vulnerability and pain. Even if it’s easier to be angry than sad. We leave so much unsaid, or say entirely more than we should’ve. We move on without addressing the cracks and point the finger when everything shatters. We agonize over small hurts until they’re unbearable, and we walk away from open arms when we feel we don’t deserve them. We choose to hold on to people because of what they used to be, and judge them for who they’re becoming. We leave each other alone, and we hate being lonely. We hurt ourselves by hurting each other, and silence fills the spaces honesty and accountability would live if we had just… talked. I truly believe bonds are restored by being restored yourself first, and allowing God to step in for true reconciliation.
Colossians 3:13 in the Bible reads, “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” (NLT Version)
As a young believer in Christ… It’s difficult to mend bonds. To forgive. It’s also difficult to admit that you need forgiveness. But the relationships that last- the real bonds- are the ones we decide are at least worth the try.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain when I realized it’s not only sharing our pain but sharing our healing from the pain that gives so much power to opening up. Allowing your entire story to be shared with the audience whom God intended to witness your testimony and certain parts of your journey inherently triggers a chain reaction in our healing process. to use your pain in your favor, to allow it to fuel you, can lead to opportunities for you to be in a position that demands a level of recollection, reflection, accountability, honesty, and a strong desire to heal from the pain that comes along with some of this process. I found that when someone opened up to me, I realized how many hurts or joys I’ve kept to myself that I would’ve loved to share with someone if they’d been around at the time it was affecting me. It’s allowed me to have more authentic connections with the people close to me.
Over the past year, I’ve enjoyed being far more intentional in my relationship with myself as well. That has allowed me to turn my pain, no matter how it occurred, into a personal victory, whether it be shared or not. Being honest with myself and God about what I was dealing with, no matter how difficult some truths can be to face, led to God healing me in ways I didn’t recognize. I’d say that’s the epitome of power; it’s all in giving it to God and letting Him take it from there.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
I’ve always lived with the truth that God is real and ever-present in my life. That’s never been a question for me, and my relationship with Him has evolved as I’ve grown. Having Him as my anchor has shaped how I see the world and how I move through challenges. I’ve also come to see that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Accepting that truth has freed me from self-judgment and regret, and it’s helped me face the future with peace and resilience, and when I struggle, I’m always drawn back.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people will remember me for the sincerity of my heart. I know I’m not perfect, but I’ve tried to give genuine love in every season of my life. I hope that others felt it, received it, and carried it with them. I want to be remembered as someone who reached out, who interceded, and who cared in a way that left people feeling seen and valued—because I’ve been blessed with those kinds of connections myself, and I hope I’ve given the same in return.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gabriellelavon.myportfolio.com/studio-portraits
- Instagram: @gdthephotographer
Image Credits
Gabrielle Davis
