Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry Jones II. Them and their team share their story with us below:
For two years now, Forever21 has selected African American Artists to develop a clothing collection for Black History Month. In its debut release in 2021, the Black History Month collection featured art by photographer Henry R. Jones II of Pasadena which highlighted his son, Malik Landon Jones. At the center of the art in the collection a portrait of Malik displaying the symbolic Black Power fist. This first design was cut into Malik’s hair sending waves across the internet gaining popularity amongst music artists, actors and even America’s top social activists.
Henry R. Jones II began his artistic career at a very young age, often times drawing, painting or creating visuals using whatever sparked his inquisitive mind. His eye turned to photography after the passing of his mother, Merlinda Love-Jones, in 2014. He credits his dedication to capturing lifelong visuals for people to a grim realization he faced when preparing for his mother’s memorial. There was simply not enough photos of the life she lived. Moments that existed came and went undocumented. This pushed Henry to want to create a business that not only focused not on simply snapping a photo but capturing the moment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Finding my path as a photographer has not been easy, there have often been times when I felt as though my message was not being received. Every piece of art that I put out, I wanted it to have reason and mean something. Once I managed to gather my faith and push through moments of imposter syndrome, I found my place both behind and in front of the camera.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Photographer/Model/Multi-Hyphenated Artist/Mental Health Awareness Advocate
Now in year two with his Black History Month collection in Forever21 stores, it highlights not only Malik but his younger sister Zion Love Jones. With a new message for the culture ”Unblur Your Eyes”. In stores now and available online at Forever21 stores across the nation! Henry is extremely proud of the success and works his children put into helping him create these visuals. As the collection continues to flourish the message continues to create history. His family has now been featured worldwide in two Black History Month collections and continues to gain popularity while delivering a strong message.
Since his launch of “Love Jones Productions” Henry believes that photography is the most efficient, unique, and fun way to add visuals to your legacy. As his resume grows, he has been able to work with numerous brands ranging from Complex to Nike Los Angeles. Since then, his work has been seen worldwide with appearances in music videos, TV shows and film. With each image he captures, his goal is to create a memory for millions to enjoy. Henry believes as the social platform for visual media increases, it is his goal to create a visual legacy that will appeal to all senses. The ideal photo should embrace everything that the model wants to portray without taking away from the beauty we so commonly overlook each day.
What are your plans for the future?
In the near future, I plan to release a photo book that also infuses my words. This will be capped off by my first photo exhibition. The goal is to stay focused on the art and if a partnership is in the near future with one of my favorite brands, I am here for that as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lovejonesphoto.com
- Instagram: @henryrjonesii
Image Credits
Self Portraits by Henry R. Jones II
